The RP Blu Girls put up a gallant run but eventually bowed to world No. 5 Australia, 4-7, in the WBSC U18 Women’s Softball World Cup opener at The Village Dallas Friday, Aug. 30 (Manila time).

Playing on a delayed game schedule due to lightning, the Filipinas made an impressive comeback and trimmed the gap to 4-5 after falling to a 0-5. Arwen Cavanagh, however, delivered when it mattered and sealed the deal for the Aussies' first win in Group C.

ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier pinned his high hopes to his squad, noting the Blu Girls will bounce back.

"We're proud of the fight the girls showed today. It's a tough loss, but I have faith in them," said Lhuillier. 

"We have a young, talented team, and I'm confident they'll bounce back stronger in the next game. We have to keep believing and keep fighting.

Up next for the Blu Girls is Mexico, which is coming off a 0-9 defeat to Canada, at the same venue then against Ireland later in the afternoon.

Australia went on a rampage and cruised to a 5-0 lead before the Filipinas had four hits including a two-run homer from Mylia Perez in the fifth inning which cut the deficit to one, 4-5.

Cavanagh answered back to secure the victory for Australia.