U.S. softball team remains perfect

ATHENS, Greece, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- Lisa Fernandez threw a one-hitter Thursday as the United States recorded its sixth straight Olympic softball shutout, 7-0 over Greece.

Fernandez (2-0) struck out four with one walk. Ginny Georgantas singled in the fifth for Greece's lone hit. The American pitcher also went two-for two with an RBI.

With only one game remaining in the seven-game round-robin portion of the tournament, the Americans have yet to give up a run. They have outscored their opponents, 38-0.

Four of the six United States games have ended early because of the Olympic seven-run mercy rule. This one was halted after five innings.

Jessica Mendoza was two for three with two RBI. She finished the game with an RBI single in the fifth that produced the seventh run.

The American national team has won 76 straight games.

In another contest, China scored its lone run on a fifth-inning error to edge Taiwan, 1-0. China improved its chances for the medal round with a 3-3 record.

Team USA will play its last round-robin game Friday against Taiwan. The semifinals will be held Sunday.