By Ap/KWMU
Houston, Tex. – The Cardinals lost in Houston Monday night 3-0, thanks to a three-run home run from Astro Jeff Kent in the bottom of the ninth.
That gives Houston a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven National League Championship Series. Game six - a must win for the Cardinals - will take place Wednesday in St. Louis.
Astros pitcher Brandon Backe gave up just one hit, a Tony Womack single, through eight innings and winning pitcher Brad Lidge struck out two in the ninth to complete the one-hitter.
Woody Williams was also sharp for Cardinals, also giving up just one hit over seven innings. Jason Isringhausen took the loss after giving up the walk-off homer in the ninth.
The Cardinals will start Matt Morris in game six; the Astros could use Roger Clemens on three days rest. Manager Phil Garner says he'll announce his starter Tuesday. That leaves the Cards one Astros win from elimination. Game six of their playoff series will be tomorrow in St. Louis.