7 p.m. Saturday vs. Carolina • NSC Stadium
Preview: For Minnesota and Carolina, the North American Soccer League fall season kicks off with a rematch of the spring season opener. The RailHawks won 2-1 at home and placed seventh in the standings, three spots behind Minnesota. Getting on the right foot is Minnesota's mission. "If we win this week, we can go with confidence to [spring season champion] Indy Eleven next week," Loons goalkeeper Sammy Ndjock said. Minnesota went 4-1 at home during the spring season.
Players to watch: Carolina acquired forward Matt Fondy, the 2015 USL MVP who scored a record 22 goals. He played with the Jacksonville Armada in the spring season, logging zero goals in eight games. The RailHawks are confident he will regain his touch. "He's a goal scorer, we brought him in here to help us," RailHawks coach Colin Clarke said in a release. For Minnesota, two less-heralded players drew praise for their efforts against Club Leon. Seldom-used J.C. Banks scored a goal while Lance Laing impressed coming off the bench. .
Numbers: While once again fourth in the overall standings heading into the fall season, the Loons have a statistical edge over last year. They have more victories (five), goals scored (16) and shutouts (four) and fewer goals against (12).
Injuries: Minnesota United FC defender Damion Lowe (MCL sprain) will miss Saturday's match.
