Cyclones Open 2016 with Pair of Exhibition Contests

AMES, Iowa- The Iowa State soccer team will kick off the 2016 season with a pair of exhibition contests. The Cyclones will host the Mississippi State Bulldogs Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Cyclone Sports Complex and then hit the road to take on Northern Illinois Monday at noon. The Cyclones will then open up the regular season on the road against No. 7 Florida on Friday, Aug. 19.

Scouting the Bulldogs

The Bulldogs finished with a 5-10-3 record in 2015 and lost three starters from that squad. A duo of freshmen, Kennadi Carbin and Kiley Martens, are returning with a year of experience after leading Mississippi State in goals with four each during their rookie campaigns.

Scouting the Huskies

Northern Illinois posted a 3-12-3 record in 2015. The Huskies return junior Lauren Gierman, who led the team in goals (6) last year, but they lost their second leading scorer Nicole Gobbo. The Huskies also return both keepers, Amy Annala and Mackenzie Lee, that appeared in net in 2015.

What to watch for

The Cyclones lose just two starters from 2015 and bring back an experienced squad that includes seven seniors. Head coach Tony Minatta will look to give the seven incoming freshman playing time to see how they will be able to contribute. A few Cyclones have been plagued with minor injuries suffered during camp, so some players will be rested for when the regular season begins.

Follow Iowa State Soccer's Twitter account (@cycloneSCR) for live updates during the match. Results will be available on Cyclones.com after the conclusion of the game.

Cyclones Open 2016 with Pair of Exhibition Contests

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Cyclones Open 2016 with Pair of Exhibition Contests

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