CARY -- It's a belief of Carolina RailHawks coach Martin Rennie that scoring goals can lead to more goals with added confidence. He doesn't have to look any farther than his own star forward to see that statement's validity.
Etienne Barbara produced his third goal in as many games in the 19th minute Wednesday in a 2-0 victory over expansion club FC Edmonton, making him the second RailHawk ever to score in three consecutive games and making him the early North American Soccer League leader in that department.
"I'm here to score goals," Barbara said. "I'm a striker, and I'm always hungry for goals."
Barbara's goal came off a rebound after a shot by teammate Kupono Low was saved by goalkeeper Rein Baart.
Unlike last season, when Rennie changed the starting forward and midfielders with regularity, this year's lineup is remaining intact.
That has allowed the attacking 4-2-4 formation to gel.
"When we keep the first team, going the same and playing together, it helps keeping the game always going each time we play with each other," Barbara said.
The formation has also made Carolina a threat to counterattack at any time.
"We want to attack teams, and I think you can see we created real good chances," Rennie said. "We've got great pace going forward."
Baart gambled on what he thought might be a breakaway in the second half - and it cost his team a second goal
Baart came out nearly 25 yards from the goal to challenge a ball sent in reserve Allan Russell, who removed Barbara in the 74th minute.
Baart's header landed at the feet of Nick Zimmerman, who lobbed in his goal from 35 yards.
"Coach had given us a great scouting report that sometimes the keeper came out, so if you got a chance, look up," Zimmerman said.
