HAVANA, Cuba, Oct 8. Cuba added its fifth notch to its victory record in the Panama 2011 World Baseball Cup this time versus Italy 5-1 to clinch the first spot of the following stage.

Leadoff batter Rusney Castillo hit a solo homer over the right field at the top of the third inning to open the score at the Rico Cedeño Stadium, in the Panamanian city of Chitré, venue of Group B.

Another solo shot by first baseman Jose Dariel Abreu in the fifth inning widened the gap to allow Cuban starter Freddy Asiel Alvarez to pitch more relaxed. In the next inning Cuban Cepeda reached third base with a triple but the following hitters, Alfredo Despaigne and Yuliesky Gourriel failed to bat him in.

Cuba added a third in the seventh when Alexei Bell scored thanks to a doble by Abrey to the centerfield.

Cuban hurler Alvarez pitched seven innings, allowing seven hits and striking up 6. The earned run he allowed broke his 13 scoreless inning streak in this World Cup. He was relieved by right-handed Alberto Soto, who closed the game.

Cuba now will play versus Germany at the Omar Torrijos Stadium, in the afternoon. (acn)