Australia have completed a stirring fightback to clinch a spot at the 2024 women's softball World Cup finals in Italy.
The Spirit did it the hard way through their six-team group stage at Balbriggan in Ireland before qualifying alongside three-time and defending world champions the United States.
After losing 2-0 to surprise packets Great Britain in their first match, the task became tougher when downed 1-0 by the American outfit.
But, after beating world No.3 Taiwan in the final round-robin game on Friday, world No.9 Australia beat Taiwan for a second time on Saturday to confirm a spot in a playoff against Great Britain for the second finals berth.
They then exacted revenge on the Brits with a 4-1 win to advance.
Veteran Olypmic pitcher Ellen Roberts repaid the faith from coach Laing Harrow by tossing another gem, allowing just a single run, striking out six and restricting Great Britain to four hits.
Softball Australia CEO Rosie Williams expressed delight at the result.
"What a week of fantastic softball. The Aussie Spirit, ground their way through to the World Cup Finals, taking on not only the teams, but also the weather," said Williams.
"We are very proud of the grit and determination the players have shown and really looking forward now to the finals back in Europe in 2024."
