Kirkland wins opening game of Junior League Softball World Series

Kirkland won its opening game of the Junior League Softball World Series on Sunday, beating Layritz of Victoria, B.C., 5-3.

Lisa Nelson struck out eight and allowed seven hits in a complete game, earning the win for the hosts of the tournament, which is being played at Everest Park in Kirkland. All of Kirkland's runs came in the first inning.

Kirkland faces the Southeast's team from Honaker, Va. in its next game Tuesday. The top two teams from each pool advance to the semifinals Friday.

In other games, West Haven (Conn.) beat Eagle Pass (Texas), 8-3, and Maunabo (Puerto Rico) beat Prague (Czech Republic), 11-2.

From tournament reports