United States and China respectively won their opener of the 2003 ISF World Softball Junior Women's World Championship on Monday.

United States, the runner-up of 1999 Championship, claimed the victory over Netherlands with a large lead of 8-1.

The Americans, who won the title in 1995, Illinois of United States, took advantage shortly after the game begin, scoring two points in the first inning.

United States won the game in the sixth innings after Caitlin Leigh Benyi scored a one-point home run in the fourth inning to lock the win.

Host China also claimed their first win in the tournament, beating Philippines 7-0.

"Most of my players are students," said Roberto Ituralde, the head coach of Philippines, "but they didn't play well today. Compared with China, my team lacks experiences. "

"We have no aims in the Championship, but let's see what happen tomorrow." said Roberto, whose team will play South Korea.

China never let any scoring chance to Philippines, but the head coach Liu Yaming said China didn't play well.

"My girls were very nervous in our debut in the Championship." said Liu, "But they played much better after the first two innings. "

Liu said China was aiming a medal in the 9-day tournament.

"We have a home advantage and my players are the top ones in the world. I think we will grasp a medal in the Championship, but I can't estimate what medal we will have."

The last time China won a medal in the World Junior Championship was in 1991.

Early on Monday, Chinese Taipei had a tough game to beat Argentina 9-5.

The Championship, which held at October 13-20, attracted 14 teams in the world, including last Championship's top three, Japan, United States and Chinese Taipei. Enditem nnnn 

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