In a game delayed by unruly fans, Hawpe's clutch two-out hit put the Rockies in command with a 4-1 lead and Francis kept Arizona at bay with a seven-hit performance over six and two-thirds innings.

But the Rockies' 18th victory in 19 games did not come without controversy.
A disputed interference call against the Diamondbacks in the seventh inning led to a delay of more than five minutes after fans threw water bottles and other objects on to the field.

"Enough's enough," Rockies manager Clint Hurdle told reporters after his team were pulled off the field for several minutes before returning.

The controversy started after Arizona's Justin Upton, running from first base, knocked down Colorado second baseman Kaz Matsui at second.

FIRST BASE

Umpire Larry Vanover called Upton out for interference, which resulted in a double play with hitter Augie Ojeda being automatically out at first base.

The Diamondbacks protested to no avail as boos filled Chase Field and fans began throwing objects on the field.

When play resumed, Arizona loaded the bases before Colorado reliever Jeremy Affeldt worked out of the jam.

Francis gave up only one run, on a first-inning double by Arizona's Eric Byrnes.
Then the Rockies's offense went to work against the Diamondbacks' ace Brandon Webb.

Todd Helton scored on a double-play ball to produce a 1-1 tie in the second inning and Matsui put the Rockies ahead on a run-scoring single in the third.

Hawpe made it a 4-1 game with his single to right later in the inning, and Colorado was in command to stay.

"It's a little more comforting pitching with a three-run lead," Francis, who struck out four and walked one, told reporters. He is now 7-2 against the Diamondbacks.

"Again the defense was tremendous," added Francis after the Rockies made three double plays.

Game Two of the best-of-seven series is on Friday in Phoenix.

(Writing by Gene Cherry in Salvo, North Carolina)