US has perfect pitcher to repeat

Compiled by Globe Staff, 09/15/2000

WHEN: Sept. 16 (vs. Canada), Sept. 17 (vs. Cuba), Sept. 18 (vs. Japan), Sept. 20 (vs. China), Sept. 21 (vs. New Zealand), Sept. 23 (vs. Italy), Sept. 24 (semifinals), Sept. 26 (medal).

US ENTRIES: Christie Ambrosi, Laura Berg, Jenn Brundage, Chrystl Bustos, Sheila Douty, Lisa Fernandez, Lori Harrigan, Danielle Henderson, Jennifer McFalls, Stacey Nuveman, Leah Obrien-Amico, Dot Richardson, Michele Smith, Michelle Venturella, Christa Williams.

FAVORITES: 1. US; 2. Australia; 3. China.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Though the Americans have won every global title since 1982, they'll have no walkover Down Under. The Australians, who claim the Yanks have been ducking them, upset them in the round-robin in 1996 and have beaten them three times since. And the Chinese, silver medalists in Atlanta, played the Americans close three times there. Still, the US has the world's best pitcher in Lisa (Perfect Game) Fernandez and a deep staff behind her. When it comes to the medal round, that should make the difference.