USA bounces back
Olympic News Service

USA bounced back to break a three-game losing streak with a 2-0 win over
Olympic newcomers New Zealand on Day Six of the Sydney 2000 Olympic
Games softball competition Friday.

Jennifer BRUNDAGE (USA) led the way with three safe hits from as many appearances at the plate, including a solo home run over the left field fence in
the second inning. She also scored the only other run of the game off the hitting of birthday girl Dot RICHARDSON (USA).

Lisa FERNANDEZ recorded her first hit of the tournament with a single to centre field.

New Zealand struggled against a determined USA but showed signs of being competitive with one safe hit from Kim DERMOTT and strong defensive
play that included a solo double play by second base Rhonda HIRA .

With only one day of preliminary play remaining, the win boosts USA's
chances of making the final rounds. A win over Italy Saturday would secure a
finals berth.