Patriots lost the first match, 3-2, and are apparently out of U.S. Open Cup competition, but walloped DFW with three goals in eight minutes.

Miguel Larrosa notched the hat trick in Sunday's match, but Julio Frias had the goal of the series, ripping a roof shot from about 30 yards.

El Paso improves their lead over DFW in the Mid-South to four points.

Looks like the only chance for any other team to make the playoffs is for DFW and El Paso to play each other about 6 more times.

Well I am kind of releived though, it is very strenuous to worry about making the playoffs . . . ;-)

You're right! El Paso certainly felt that pressure during their stint in the A-League.