MONMOUTH trio Alys Thomas, Mary Racz and Isabel Mosley have returned from the European Softball Cadette Championships, held in Italy, with their heads held high.

After wins against Spain and Belgium, and losses against the Czech Republic and Italy, the Great Britain team entered the medal play-offs against a very strong Russian side.

The team played a superb game during the first three innings and Russia did not have a sniff of a run as GB pitcher Niamh Walker struck out six of the first 10 batters she faced.

But by the 4th, Russia finally began to connect with the bat and GB had no answer – eventually succumbing 5-0.  

The result meant GB's tournament was over and the girls had to settle for fourth place and no medal. Overall though the campaign can be seen as a success considering the mix of ages and experience in the GB squad and strength of the opposition. Also, the fourth place finish is GB's highest since the tournament started in 2002.

As for the Monmouth girls, Mary was GB's highest scorer with three runs for the tournament and Alys and Isabel were noted for their strong batting and fielding performances throughout the week.

For them the tournament was all about gaining international experience.

The skill levels of their opponents was not a surprise to them but the speed, intensity and aggression that allowed some of GB's opponents to take advantage of every mistake may have been the real shock, and the biggest lesson they will take away from Italy.