South Africa loses games but wins respect with effort
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-03-11 14:16

"I don't know if I can put it into words but it was a lifetime experience.

"All we tried to do was the little things. Just let them know that once the game begins, they do have a chance and to play the very best game they can.

"Whatever the results are, if they can look back and know they gave it their most, then that's all they can ask of themselves."

The future of South African baseball was on full display in Phoenix, with 17-year-olds Bradley Erasmus and pitcher Jared Elario standing their ground against the U.S. powerhouse.

Elario, a grade 11 student who lists Roger Clemens as his hero, caught the eye of major league scouts during the tournament and again on Friday when he came on in relief to shutdown the U.S.

"Although we didn't win the scoreboard doesn't tell the true story," said Magnante. "Fellows like him (Elario), just 17 years-old came in and shutdown the USA for an inning.

"Playing in European and African baseball certainly isn't new but certainly it is new for them to play a team of this calibre."