Updated: February 8, 2004, 1:06 PM ET
New Zealand first to win three straight titles
CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand -- New Zealand became the first country to win three straight world softball championships, beating Canada 9-5 Sunday behind Mark Sorenson's three-run homer.
Sorenson, who came out of retirement to win his third gold medal at six championships, went 3-for-4 with four RBIs. The homer was the catcher's first of the tournament.
New Zealand and the United States have won five world titles since 1966.
Canada earlier beat Australia 7-0 Sunday to claim its spot in the final. Australia entered the tournament ranked 12th in the world and finished in third place.
Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press
