After win, team watches Cup loss

NEW YORK - This was a case of one group of top athletes pulling for another. And that's why, despite the Phillies' 8-5 win on Sunday over the New York Mets at Citi Field, there was a collective groan in the visitors clubhouse well after the game had ended.

The Women's World Cup final was on television screens throughout the clubhouse. When Japan converted the penalty kick that sealed its win over the United States, the room went silent.

"It was tough watching those PKs," shortstop Jimmy Rollins said.

Rollins could empathize with the U.S. athletes.

"It's tough, and I felt for them because it's a championship situation, and we know what it's like to win at the highest level, and unfortunately we have been on the other side," he said, referring to the Phillies 2008 World Series win and the 2009 loss in the Fall Classic.

First baseman Ryan Howard appeared especially immersed in the game.

"I love watching different sports, and they had the whole nation riding on this," Howard said. "They did a great job, and unfortunately they came up short."

- Marc Narducci