Altagracia stands tall after 7-1 victory

By David Graham-Caso
Special Correspondent

Russia found itself in a foreign position Monday afternoon, entering Game 17 of the 2003 Little League World Series. Though the Khovrino Little League from Moscow, Russia had been to Williamsport for the last three years, until Sunday evening, they had never won a game. Needless to say, Moscow had never had a legitimate opportunity to advance to the International semi-final. This is why Monday afternoon’s showdown with Altagracia, Venezuela was so unique; if Russia beat the Venezuela squad, they would be in the single elimination round on Wednesday.

The Latin American champs were too much or the Russian squad. Though he didn’t pitch poorly, Europe starter Kirill Starodbov was plagued by poor fielding and passed balls. Starodbov allowed seven runs on eight hits in his second loss of the tournament.

“Kirill did not pitch poorly today,” said Russia manager Vladimir Eltchaninov. “He was hurt by errors, but he did not pitch poorly.”

Starodbov was relieved in the bottom of the fifth inning by comrade Alexey Kozin. Kozin immediately ran into trouble. The righty inherited a runner on first, and after issuing a free pass to Ferrer, he gave up a single to center. An error by left fielder Anton Chekalin brought in the run, making the score 7-1.

Venezuela improved to 2-0 in pool play with the 7--1victory.

Venezuela starter Siberad Ferrer threw two innings, allowing one run on three hits before being relieved by Adis Portillo.

“Siberad’s arm was starting to hurt, so I decided not to risk anything,” said Altagracia manager Alfonso Avendano through an interpreter. “Adis did a good job.”

Portillo was magnificent in relief. He struck out the first seven batters he faced before surrendering a single to Alexei Bogdanov in the top of the fifth inning. Portillo worked three innings of scoreless ball before Eugenio Yajure came in to close out the game in the sixth.

“I was very satisfied with how I did as a reliever today,” he said through an interpreter.

Latin America improves to 2-0 and next faces the also undefeated Mexico squad 11 a.m. at Lamade Stadium on Tuesday. The game will decide the first place team out of pool C.

Russia finishes the tournament 1-2. This is the first time in three years that Russia has won a game at the Little League World Series.