:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49326185/usa-today-9244404.0.jpg)
The North American Soccer League season is only two weeks old, but already we're beginning to get a look at who the contenders for the Spring Season title will be. The New York Cosmos and Carolina RailHawks are the only two clubs to have won both of their opening matches, with Minnesota United being the only other side with a victory this campaign. No other club has done better than a pair of draws to open the schedule, so already, clubs looking to keep pace with the leaders could be a little desperate for a result.
As was probably to be expected with the sheer volume of draws thus far, I haven't been doing all that well with my predictions. With any luck, though, this weekend will be better. Here are the four matches not involving the New York Cosmos (that pick will come later), and how to watch each of those games.
Jacksonville Armada vs. Miami FC
Date: Friday, April 15
Time: 7:00 pm ET
How to watch: beIN, Gol TV
The Armada impressed in spurts against the Cosmos last Sunday, while Miami have been the better side in both of their opening pair. Unfortunately for Tony Meola and company, I think that this week, Miami will finally close the deal. I'm going with 2-1 for the expansion side.
Carolina RailHawks vs. Ottawa Fury
Date: Saturday, April 16
Time: 7:30 pm ET
How to watch: ESPN 3
The RailHawks have looked excellent for the first two weeks of the season, while Ottawa hasn't looked anywhere near the side they were in 2015. I have a hard time seeing anything but a Carolina win from this one, though it will be more entertaining than this matchup would have been eight months ago. 2-1 Carolina.
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. FC Edmonton
Date: Saturday, April 16
Time: 7:30 pm ET
How to watch: ESPN 3
If you didn't have to score to win matches, both of these teams would be front runners. Unfortunately, scoring is a big part of the game, and neither one of these sides have looked likely to do so yet this season. 0-0, and I recommend that you watch one of the other matches.
Minnesota United vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers
Date: Saturday, April 16
Time: 8:00 pm ET
How to watch: ESPN 3
Minnesota finally get to play their home opener, and will face a Fort Lauderdale side that looked pretty poor in week one. The Strikers have had a week to work on everything that wasn't going well, however, and I think they'll look quite a bit better on Saturday night. That said, they still won't win. 3-2 Loons.