Phillies take World Series lead

The Phillies celebrate Bruntlett (centre) scoring the winning run

Philadelphia catcher Carlos Ruiz drove in the winning run to secure a 2-1 lead over Tampa Bay in the World Series.

The Phillies edged the Rays 5-4 on Saturday when Ruiz mistimed a hit toward third base at the bottom of the ninth inning.

Play was delayed at Citizens Bank Park for 91 minutes because of rain and the match finished at 0130 local time.

Games four and five will take place in Philadelphia, with Tampa hosting games six and seven if necessary.

606: DEBATE The Phillies will take a major advantage over the Tampa Bay Rays going into Game Four Tano24

Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit back-to-back home runs in the sixth for the Phillies, while veteran lefthander Jamie Moyer pitched 6 1/3 innings and struck out five for the home side.

"It exceeded every thought or dream I have had," Moyer said. "I did a good job of what I set out to do."

Ruiz's RBI single, to go with a solo homer in the second, scored team-mate Eric Bruntlett from third to clinch victory.