BASEBALL/WORLD SERIES:The Philadelphia Phillies ended their long wait for a World Series title as they clinched the crown by completing a rain-suspended 4-3 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on home turf.
They claimed their first title since 1980 in a unique, three-inning finish as they resumed Game Five, suspended in the middle of the sixth on Monday with the score tied 2-2 when the field became unplayable after rain.
The victory gave the Phillies a 4-1 triumph in the best-of-seven series and ended a dream season for the Rays, who rebounded from the worst record in the majors last season.
Pedro Feliz drove in the game-winning run in the bottom of the seventh, and reliever Brad Lidge struck out pinch-hitter Eric Hinske for the final out in the ninth, setting off a wild celebration as fireworks exploded over Citizens Bank Park.
"I always thought we could win the World Series," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said after the game. "I knew we could beat anybody in our league.
"When I look at my guys, I see our chemistry and our attitude, our make-up and how much we like to play and how much the Philadelphia fans backed us. I knew we could win the World Series."
Philadelphia starting pitcher Cole Hamels, who won the opening game of the series, was named Most Valuable Player.