Philadelphia Phillies reach past Colorado Rockies 7-6 at Citizens Bank Park - MLB Update
Right fielder Hunter Pence doubles in the ninth and scores in the same inning at the back of a fielding error as the Philadelphia Phillies win 7-6 against the Colorado Rockies on June 20, 2012, in second game of the three match series at Citizens Bank Park,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Phillies kicked off their quest with one run lead in the first. As soon as they posted lead, it was immediately surpassed in the second before the Phillies slammed it down again.
Second inning saw Phillies adding three runs and going ahead of Rockies by one run.
Afterwards, both sides kept attacking and blowing the lead after every passing inning.
Eventually, drama reached the ninth which featured the most breathtaking moments of the game.
Score was tied by then. Tie breaking run from either side will have put the other under extreme pressure. Thus, chances of the former becoming winner from there on were almost certain.
Interestingly enough, Colorado managed a tie breaking run during the top of the ninth. In an all-out attempt to turn outcome of the game to their favour, Phillies slammed two runs in reply and went on to record a thrilling victory.
Joe Blanton did the starting job for Phillies. Far from his best, Blanton gave up five runs in seven innings, while striking-out six. He was hammered for three home-runs.
''Sometimes you don't have any luck,'' Blanton said. ''I feel fine about the way I threw.''
If it was not for a solid performance the Phillies’ relievers put up, the outcome will easily have been something different.
Jonathan Papelbon came to throw the ninth. While allowing one run, he showed control and did enough to make sure Colorado will not go on a rampage.
Phillies’ manager Charlie Manuel was fascinated by the nerves-packed finish that came about. He praised the way they pulled off win during last moments.
''That was a big finish for us,'' manager Charlie Manuel said. ''Just hustling at the end got us the win. That's why you hustle.''
Despite victory, issues remain for the Phillies. Complacency will be the last thing the manager will want.
Working out issues with starters and relievers will be priority for him. He will be making sure they perform even better in upcoming games.
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