Wednesday, Apr. 06, 2011

'Hawks home schedule entices

In their first year of being fully sanctioned, North American Soccer League schedule-makers hoped to rectify problems that its members had faced in previous seasons.

The differences stand out.

Last year, the Carolina RailHawks played 10 mid-week games - which are notorious for low attendance.

The team is plays just five in 2011.

There are plenty more twists and turns to this year's schedule, including a championship rematch to start the season. Here are a few notes:

Saturday: Puerto Rico

The last time either team played a game, it was in October on the same WakeMed Soccer Park field. The Puerto Rico Islanders locked up the USSF D2 championship on the RailHawks' home field by winning the home-and-home series 3-1 on total goals.

The Islanders routinely boast one of the most competitive Division 2 teams, and both franchises have had this game circled on the calendar for quite some time.

April 16: Montreal

As much fun as the season opener is, this one could be even more entertaining.

Last year's meetings were full of bad blood and controversial endings.

Many players from those games have moved on to other teams. However, it's unlikely the WakeMed Soccer Park patrons - who once witnessed Montreal verbally and physically assault referees and RailHawks management - will have any sort of warm welcome for the Impact.

April 20: FC Edmonton

The first midweek game of the season comes at home, and to an expansion franchise.

April 30: at NSC Minnesota

This is the first road game of the year.

It starts of a two-game road trip.

The RailHawks play no more than three straight at home nor three straight away.

June 14: Nobody

Ordinarily, this would be the day the RailHawks kick off the U.S. Open Cup, a tournament that brings together professional American soccer teams of all divisions.

However, the USSF said that NASL teams were not allowed to play this year as the schedule could not wait on sanctioning to pass.

June 18: FC Tampa Bay

By the RailHawks' 13th game of the season, Carolina will have played six weekend road games but only four at home.

July 3: Montreal

In the season's only Sunday home game, will things be kept civil? Let's pray so.

August 20: Ft. Lauderdale

Just six games left in the 24-game season after this one, which is preceded by a Wednesday night home game.

September 24: NSC Minnesota

The RailHawks play four of their last six games on the road, but this one is the home and regular-season finale.