The Northstar commuter train ran later than usual Sunday to accommodate Vikings fans leaving the afternoon game at the Metrodome.

"We don't have to worry about having a few cocktails and driving," said Karen Carpenter of Elk River. She and her husband, Kevin, climbed aboard the train that was set to leave at 7:20 p.m. from downtown Minneapolis. Typically, the last scheduled Sunday departure is 4:45 p.m.

Carpenter said the ride to the game took about 35 minutes, less time than it used to take to drive and park at a Vikings game.

The final train Sunday was even a tad later than expected: It was held until 7:24 p.m. for passengers from a connecting light-rail train.

PAT DOYLE