Football

Soccer 2 the MAX: MLS Cup Conference Semi-Finals, USWNT Roster for Canada, Club World Cup Revamp?

Club World Cup
Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) during the second half of the MLS Cup Playoff game between the New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC on October 30, 2017, at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. – Getty Images

On this episode of Soccer 2 the MAX, Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins give analysis on the first four matches of the Major League Soccer Conference Semi-Finals. Do the Columbus Crew have the road paved for the Conference Finals? What about Toronto FC? Who can you really count on in the West? After two 0-0 draws. We discuss all that and look ahead to the second leg matches as well.

The guys also discuss the latest with the Save the Crew movement. Does an email exchange between a Precourt Sports Venture official and a hoaxer reveal anything? And is MLS potentially in trouble with San Antonio?

After that, there’s some MLS news, with international star Javier Mascherano considering a move to MLS after the World Cup 2018. A few more potential signings, and we look at the USL playoffs too.

Finally, the two discuss what a group stage MLS Playoffs would look like, thanks to Grant Wahl for the idea. Not to mention, the FIFA Club World Cup could go into a full fledged tournament, if FIFA has it’s way.

We also talk the final U.S. Women’s National Team roster for 2017, as the USWNT prepares for a home-home series against Canada.

Soccer 2 the MAX: MLS Cup Conference Semi-Finals, USWNT Roster for Canada, Club World Cup Revamp?

About Soccer 2 the MAX

A podcast about the world’s game with a focus on the United States Men’s and Women’s club and international scenes, with some CONCACAF discussion thrown-in as well. Whether it’s breaking down Major League Soccer, NWSL, U.S. Men and Women’s National teams, and even some USL in there too. Starring Rachael McKriger, current soccer writer for multiple outlets, and former writers Erik Watkins and Sean Garmer come together to make the perfect attacking triangle each week. All three also played soccer growing up and into high school as well. So, these are three Footy lovers that have discussions about the happenings on this side of the pond.

Sean Garmer

Being born into a Latino family, Sean grew up around the game of Futbol. No matter what you deem to call it, Mr. Garmer enjoys the sport. Sean played Defender growing up and then transitioned to Goal Keeper in High School. Due to the University of North Texas not having a Men’s Soccer team at the time, his playing career ended in 2005.

However, since then, he’s kept up with Soccer by watching his favorite teams and leagues, while also writing as well. Sean was paid to cover the 2010 World Cup, formerly hosted the Football 2 Futbol Podcast, and also wrote about the beautiful game for several other outlets. He mainly follows Major League Soccer supporting his childhood team in FC Dallas. Sean’s also a Manchester United Supporter after visiting England in 2003 and picking the Red Devils. Now, he prepares for a brand new venture, in podcasting about Football once again, on the Soccer 2 the MAX Podcast.

Erik Watkins

While he was never really the best on the field, Erik’s always had a deep rooted passion for the beautiful game. From discovering it in Maryland thanks to DC United, to cheering on Manchester United since the days of Ruud van Nistelrooy. Not to mention, considering donning purple hair to cheer Orlando City SC today. From MLS to USL and NASL (Viva Armada!) to even dreaming of training and playing in the MASL, if it’s soccer, he’s usually on it.

Rachael McKriger

Don’t let height fool you. Before becoming a journalist, Rachael McKriger, was a goalkeeper. Yes, all 5-feet-two-inches of her. Now, don’t ask if she was good or not, because that answer is up for debate. Currently, she doesn’t play soccer anymore, unless it’s a pickup game in the park or at her former high school. However, she’s still closely attached to the sport. Rachael covers the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams. The MLS and NWSL for Real Sports Entertainment Network and covers the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds for the Pittsburgh Sporting News. She loves football with an undying passion. Yes, she calls it football, since she hails from Europe (the colder part, aka Moscow). Rachael’s favorite clubs are Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany, the Seattle Sounders in MLS, the Washington Spirit in the NWSL and the U.S. National Teams.

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