by Peter Evans
Mlade Buky, Czech Republic: August 4 -- Mlade Buky and Trutnov, two villages 200 km east of Prague, were bathed in sunshine throughout the first day of the European Co-ed Slowpitch Cup yesterday.
The Czech Republic is playing host to two British teams (defending European Cup champions Chromies and 2010 Premier Nationals winners Pioneers), as well as the Irish representatives from Limerick and two Czech teams, Wayne's World and the local team Sparks Mlade Buky.
Limerick, behind the power hitting of Eric Kelly, made an impressive start with comprehensive wins in their opening two games (20-5 over Wayne's World and 13-6 against the home town Sparks).
However, having changed fields from Trutnov to Mlade Buky, their fortunes also changed as the Pioneers ran out comfortable 16-7 winners against Limerick to peg back the Irish team's fast start.
Pioneers up, Chromies down
After two tight games (a 10-9 opening win against Chromies and a 13-12 defeat to Wayne's World), the Pioneers found their stride and rounded off an excellent first day with a resounding demolition of Sparks by 14-1.
But the Pioneers were joined at the top of the leader board by Limerick, who matched their opening day 3-1 record with a 9-7 win over the luckless Chromies.
Wayne's World failed to join the top pair thanks to a surprising 4-2 loss to the previously winless Sparks in a defense-dominated game.
The Chromies finished a disappointing 1-3 and will look to bounce back in this morning as they face the Pioneers in Trutnov.
Scores
Game 1: Pioneers 10, Chromies 9
Game 2: Limerick 20, Wayne's World 5
Game 3: Wayne's World 13, Pioneers 12
Game 4: Limerick 13, Sparks 6
Game 5: Pioneers 16, Limerick 7
Game 6: Chromies 15, Sparks 7
Game 7: Pioneers 14, Sparks 1
Game 8: Wayne's World 12, Chromies 5
Game 9: Limerick 9, Chromies 7
Game 10: Sparks 4, Wayne's World 2
Standings: Day 1
Pioneers (3-1)
Limerick (3-1)
Wayne's World (2-2)
Sparks (1-3)
Chromies (1-3)