SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — The boys from Billings keep making Montana Little League history.
The first team from the state to advance to South Williamsport overcame a shaky start and three solo homers Thursday by the sluggers from Rapid City, S.D., to win its Little League World Series debut 6-4.
Connor Kieckbusch and his teammates were understandably a little anxious when they first trotted onto the manicured field at Lamade Stadium, with about 11,000 fans watching their every move. Those nerves disappeared after a five-run fourth inning highlighted by Kieckbusch’s two-run single and Cole McKenzie’s two-run double with two outs.
“I felt kind of nervous (initially) because we’re in Williamsport and pretty much nationals, and I didn’t know what to expect,” said the red-freckled Kieckbusch, 12, as he flashed a slight grin. “As the game went on, I kind of relaxed.”
Mexicali, Mexico, shut out Kaoshiung, Taiwan, 3-0 in the Series’ first game Thursday behind a two-hitter by flame-throwing right-hander Jorge Jacobo. He’s also 12.
Hamamatsu City, Japan, beat Oranjestad, Aruba, 12-1, but the game had added meaning for the Japan squad after a survivor of this year’s earthquake and tsunami threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
“I told the kids that they should appreciate that they are here to play a game,” manager Akihiro Suzuki said through translator Kotaro Omori. “It should teach them to keep working hard and that it’s only a sport.”
Lafayette, La., shut out Warner Robins, Ga., 2-0 in an entertaining nightcap featuring solid pitching and good fielding by each squad. Both towns have previously sent teams to South Williamsport.
Georgia broke through against Louisiana starter Ethan Hines to load the bases with nobody out in the sixth, but reliever Haden Erbe came on to get the final three outs for the save, including Dillon Toms’ comebacker to end the game.
