FULLERTON, Calif. — Utah Blitzz coach Chris Agnello isn't one to complain just because his team loses. However, on Friday night he couldn't help himself.
In regards to the Blitzz's 1-0 loss to Orange County Blue Stars, he said. "In the four years we've been in the league, they were the three worst referees I've ever seen — at any level.
"The referees were entirely inadequate, and no where near what is necessary for this level of soccer."
Orange County scored the game's lone goal in the 84th minute, just four minutes after Utah's Alejandro Gutierrez received a red card.
Utah was forced to play without midfielders Sterling Wescott and Rich Breza. Wescott's wife had to be rushed to the hospital late Thursday night, and Breza had a prior commitment with family.
"Missing those two key players puts you in a big deficit before you even kick the ball," said Agnello.
The Blitzz will try and rebound on Saturday when they face the Southern California Seahorses, whom they tied 2-2 earlier this year.