Kaila Holtz of North Vancouver threw a no-hitter and Alison Bradley of Pinkerton, Ont., added a two-run homer in Canada's 12-0 mercy-rule win over South Africa at the women's softball world championship Friday.

Holtz struck out 11 batters over her five innings and was one walk away from a perfect game in helping Canada improve to 5-1 at the tournament. It was the team's fourth shutout win.

Canada plays host China (5-1) Saturday in the final round-robin game before the playoff round begins. Second place in Pool A will be on the line.

``Five-and-one, we can't ask for much more right now,'' said Bradley. ``(Saturday against China) is the important game that we need to take care of.''

Melanie Matthews continued to be strong for Canada going 3-for-3 with two doubles and two RBIs.

``The players accepted the challenge offensively,'' said coach Lori Sippel. ``Holtz and (catcher Tammy) Howren set the standard defensively with a no-hit shutout.''

China dropped a 2-0 decision to the United States (6-0).

In other action, Japan remained unbeaten with 2-1 win over Australia, Britain beat New Zealand 2-1 and Taiwan defeated Botswana 11-0.