CC Sabathia was brilliant for seven innings. He only gave up one hit and no runs and left with a slim one run lead. In the eighth Phil Hughes was also awesome with two strikeouts.

The Yankees scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth due to some sloppy fielding on a run down play and a bloop two run single from Johnny Damon.

The Yankees had chances to put the game away all day long but couldn't get the big hit. They had the bases loaded and none out and A-Rod hit a roller up the first base line which Martinez got and dove back to touch home plate ahead of a sliding Derek Jeter. Matsui and Swisher popped out to end the inning.

With a 3-0 lead it was a save situation and "The Sandman" was summoned to close the door. Jacoby Ellsbury grounded back to the box for the first out. Dustin Pedoria struck out swinging and there were two quick outs. Victor Martinez hit the first pitch to right for a single to extend his hitting streak to 25 games, being the first player from Venezuela to do so. Kevin Youkilis put a tough at bat on Mo and was eventually hit with a pitch to bring the potential tying run to the plate. Mike Lowell, however struck out on four pitches to end the game.

The save was the 43rd for Rivera in 45 save opportunities. His record for 2009 is 3-3 and he now pitches to an ERA of 1.85. The Yankees can clinch tomorrow afternoon with a win.

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