PH gets boot in world baseball qualifier, loses to New Zealand

SYDNEY — New Zealand first baseman Boss Moanaroa had seven RBIs, including a three-run homer in a six-run sixth inning, to lead a 17-7 comeback win over the Philippines in a World Baseball Classic qualifier on Friday.

The game, which ended in the bottom of the eighth inning due to the tournament's 10-run mercy rule, will see New Zealand advance to a game Saturday against the loser of the later qualifier between Australia and South Africa, who each won their opening games.

The Philippines, which led the game 7-4, was eliminated.

The winner of the Australia-South Africa game will advance straight to Sunday's tournament final and play for a spot in next year's 16-team World Baseball Classic.

On Thursday, Australia beat the Philippines 11-1 and South Africa defeated New Zealand 7-1.