Despite pitching gem, Milford eliminated at LLWS

The Milford Little League softball team’s magical summer run came to an end on Saturday, falling to the Philippines 1-0 in the Little League Softball World Series.

Milford, which won both the Connecticut and New England titles to advance to the World Series in Greenville, N.C., lost just two games in its run this summer, both at the World Series.

The Phillipines, represtenting the Asia-Pacific

Region, scored in the bottom of the first inning to advance to the loser ’s bracket final for the right to advance to Monday’s championship game at 7 (ESPN).

Milford’s Sophia Horvack tossed a one-hitter, striking out five and walking just two.

Phillipines pitcher Jacy Pajotal drove in the only run of the game on an infield single to score Audrey Matarong, who reached on an error, then advanced to second and third on a passed ball and wild pitch.

Pajotal struck out 10 Milford batters and walked none.

Julia Scibek had two hits for Milford, including a two-out single to center in the top of the sixth to put the tying run on base. Lily Stankevich had Milford’s other hit in the game.

In the fourth Scibek singled to left, stole second and advanced to third on a Phillipines’ error with two outs.

Milford lost 2-1 to Maryland in its opener before defeating Canada 4-0 and Missouri 8-2 (scoring six runs in the top of the ninth inning) to advance to Saturday’s loser’s bracket semifinal.

Milford’s roster included: Maddy Bonanno, Norah Bove, Chloe Capalbo, Leah Corris, Riley Fagan-Davies, Maddie Deldin, Ariella DiOrio, Sophia Horvack, Nyla Jaser, Gabby Rodriguez, Julia Scibek, Emily Speringo, Lily Stankevich. Mike Bonanno served as manager, with Dave Rodriguez and Chris Capalbo as assistant coaches.

Phillipines 1, Milford 0

Milford ..................................000 000 — 0 3 1 Phillipines ............................100 00X — 1 1 1