China, in its last group game of the "Good Luck Beijing" 2007 International Baseball Tournament, lost to traditional powerhouse Japan 7-1 today at the Wukesong Baseball Field.

"We played pretty well in the beginning and still led 1-0 in the fifth inning. But Japn soon took advantage of our defense problems to turn the tables. No. 33 Chen Kun's nice pitches didn't help us win." China's head coach James Lefebver noted after the game.

As physical performance is not the main reason for the loss, Lefebver said the defeat was due to too many mistakes in the defense.

Without so many turnovers, China "definitely" could have won the game, he added, saying "we had turnover even when three runners were on base and that means the young team needs training."

China's outfielder Wang Chao said "Regardless of the defeat, we are narrowing the gap with Japan and we can win next time."

"I think we played well in all the three games. The loss reflects our lack of the ability to carry out the strategy of the coach," commented China's pitcher Chen Kun.

Lefebver concluded that "It's the first time we faced Japan and we have gained some knowledge about their tactics and defense. I believe we can do it better next time."