BEIJING (ESPN.com news services) -- Heavy thunderstorms suspended the U.S. Olympic softball team's game on Thursday against Canada, which led the Americans 1-0 in the fourth inning when play was stopped for a second time by severe weather.

The Canadians scored an unearned run in the first without a hit. They were helped by an error by U.S. center fielder Caitlin Lowe -- her first in 123 games with the national team -- and three illegal pitches called against American starter Monica Abbott.

The U.S., which has won 16 straight Olympic games and is seeking its fourth straight gold medal, has not trailed in a game since 2000.

The U.S.-Canada game will be resumed on Friday following the U.S. team's game with Japan, which begins at noon. Canada plays China earlier at 9:30 a.m.

"We play the Americans every year and we know what they're about," Canadian coach Lori Sippel said. "We understand if there is any pressure it's on them.

"We need to play our game.

"Our girls understand we play just one pitch at a time regardless who we're playing especially against the U.S."

Officials are still hoping to play two other preliminary round contests, Japan vs. Netherlands and Taiwan vs. Venezuela, scheduled for later on Thursday.

One game was completed under threatening skies as Simmone Morrow slammed two home runs to help Australia beat China 3-1 to notch their first win.

Information from The Associated Press and Reuters was used in this report.