Let's be clear. Suspended or ejected coaches trying to manage their teams via cellphone is not new. It's been done before. But what was odd about this was how blatant and obvious the pair of coaches were about it. Usually, the coaches will go away to a secluded spot and get on the phone. Kronsteiner and Lopes were doing it in the stands, just two rows down from the broadcast area, and in middle of FCE supporters who were calling them out because it was obvious they were breaking the rules.

The actions of the Fort Lauderdale coaches have FC Edmonton brass contemplating asking the league for a forfeit. The team has confirmed it will be making some kind of formal protest. A forfeit plea is an option.

Finding the goals to turn draws into wins is a priority for the team, but there were no new faces at training sessions Monday at the Commonwealth Fieldhouse.

The RailHawks remain atop the table with the result. But, as of Saturday night, four of the league’s seven teams — Carolina, Atlanta, San Antonio and Minnesota — remain alive in the standings.

But the game quickly turned against the Eddies. In the 16th minute, without contact, central defender Carlyle Mitchell crumpled to the ground without contact. He was in agony and rolled off the pitch. He was subbed out for Adrian LeRoy. Mitchell, on loan from the Whitecaps, will have x-rays done performed on the ankle Monday.

"I don't think they'll be tired," said FCE's central midfield catalyst. "They're at the bottom of the league, so they need a result. I think they'll put a priority on the league over the Cup."

And, while the Eddies have been on a bye, pretty well each and every result they wanted to go their way has, well, gone their way.

FC Edmonton will be cheering for its six fellow NASL teams as they enter the U.S. Open Cup competition next week.

In his NASL coaching debut, Colin Miller had to settle for a draw.

But, as we get ready for this weekend’s kickoff to the NASL spring season, the Rowdies and MUFC are the clear favourites to top the table.