The Netherlands earned consecutive wins as the second round-robin phase began ©Getty Images

The Netherlands earned back-to-back victories as the second group phase of the Women's European Softball Championship began in Venezia.

The Dutch team had won each of their matches in the opening round-robin stage at Castions Di Strada in Italy.

An 8-1 win over France saw Group F begin in a similar fashion, followed by a 9-0 triumph over Israel.

The Netherlands lead the standings ahead of Israel, who were 7-5 winners against Russia earlier in the day.

Hosts Italy and Germany began Group E with victories.

Italy were 5-0 winners against the Czech Republic to maintain the defending champions' unbeaten start to the tournament.

Germany secured a narrow 9-8 win over Spain in their first match of the second round-robin stage.



The German side will play the Czech Republic in their second match, with Italy’s clash against Spain rounding off today’s play.

The top three teams in Groups E and F will advance to the final round-robin stage of the tournament.

Teams will hope to qualify for the medal matches, which will take place on July 3.