On the return episode of Soccer 2 the MAX, Sean Garmer, Erik Watkins, and Rachael McKriger discuss the latest in America’s beautiful game.

First up, Rachael gives thoughts on the United States Women’s National Team‘s play in the recently completed SheBelieves Cup. Did anyone standout? Or was it an all-around depressing slate of performances? And what did Jill Ellis do wrong this time?

The trio also spend time on the lawsuit filed by the USWNT against the United States Soccer Federation. Do the women have a claim to the “equal work, equal pay?” The crew discuss why they do.

After that, it is time for some Major League Soccer. Where they debut a new segment called the “9 to 4.” Nine things from the week and their four teams.

Should alarm bells being going off for Frank DeBoer already in Atlanta? Who’s had the better run so far? Seattle Sounders, Minnesota United, or LAFC? Has Ben Olsen finally figured it out for D.C. United? And can New York City FC do anything about the poor state of Yankees Stadium? These are just some of the things discussed here.

Plus, some talk on MLS’s poor performance in CONCACAF Champions League, Joe Corona‘s move to the LA Galaxy, and more.

PODCAST: USWNT Sues USSF, MLS Week 2 Thoughts

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.

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 Last Word on Soccer as an Editor. 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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