Thunder set to roll at home

The Minnesota Thunder plays its first home match at 7:05 tonight against Vancouver at the National Sports Center in Blaine.

Here are three things fans need to know:

1. Behold the Thunder Lounge. The three-tier facility, hosted by the Happy Gnome Bar and Restaurant, will open one hour before kickoff and remain open throughout the game for all fans. Food and beer can be purchased. The Thunder Lounge, located on the north end of the stadium about 15 feet from the field, will host the official postgame party at which fans can interact with Thunder players, weather permitting.

2. Tickets range in price from $5 to $28. Fans attending the home opener can purchase either two tickets and two beers or two tickets and two T-shirts for $22. Details are available at www.mnthunder.com. In addition, the Thunder's new Shield Pass promotion allows fans ages 3-18 to purchase a $20 season pass for Thunder games.

3. No shuttle today. The shuttle from the Happy Gnome in St. Paul is not in service for today's game and will be available sparingly this season. Parking at the National Sports Center is free.

Youngsters impress Head coach Donny Gramenz called rookie defenders Chris Clements and Rich Costanzo "the two new guys who are the most polished right now."

Costanzo started all 26 games for Maryland, which won the NCAA championship. Clements spent four years at Tulsa. He signed with Minnesota after the first game of the season but has played significant minutes in the past three games.

Knox cleared to play Forward Nathan Knox can resume practicing with the Thunder. He tore his ACL and MCL late last season and missed the playoffs.