The Utah Blitzz got exactly what they wanted and needed Friday night.
By beating San Diego 3-0, the Blitzz not only increased their chances of qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup to "90 percent" according to coach Chris Agnello, but they continued to sparkle offensively.
After scoring just one goal in its first four games, Utah has scored 11 in its last three. The Blitzz and Gauchos meet again Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Friday was Utah's last Open Cup qualifier, and it finished with a 2-1-1 record, good enough for seven points. San Diego sits at six points with one game remaining, while several PSL teams back East are also battling for the four league berths.
"For us, with as much success as we've had, (the Open Cup) is certainly something we feel we haven't achieved our full potential," said Agnello. "Our goal has always been to get an MLS team in here when something is on the line. That's a thirst that needs to be quenched."
The Blitzz's qualification fate is out of their hands, but at least they finished things on a positive note.
Long-time Blitzz player Jorge Estrada opened the scoring shortly before halftime by heading in a text-book cross from Matt Evans.
"In my opinion, Jorge was the man of the match," said Agnello. "His work up and down and the flank, and his work hard defensively was great."
Evans got in on the scoring in the 67th minute when has 30-yard free kick was fumbled by San Diego keeper Brandon Hearron and dribbled into the net.
Second-half substitute B.J. McNicol tacked on Utah's third goal on an incredible chip shot into the upper left-hand corner of the net while running to his right.
ENDLINES:Ryan Youngblood, who the Blitzz signed away from Wilmington a few weeks ago, saw his first action for Utah as an 83rd minute substitute. Blitzz defender Kiko Medina is out for at least six weeks with a broken foot.
E-mail: jedward@desnews.com