WEBVTT
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Hello, KC Current fans, and welcome once again to the current situation.
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Thanks so much for tuning in.
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Dave Orchard alongside Jilly and Carol Lutrico, we have a lot to talk about.
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We'll talk to Jordan Angeli coming up next segment.
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Former NWSL midfielder, veteran, NWSL broadcaster.
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We'll take a look around the league.
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We'll preview the game coming up this weekend against Bay FC.
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Of course, we'll talk more about everything going on with the playoff scenarios.
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It's a tight race for those last few spots.
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But let's start with the great news.
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And we hyped it up last week.
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This was the biggest game left on the current schedule.
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It didn't start the way we wanted.
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Early goal, 13th met from Lindsay Heaps.
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Meanie gets a penalty, it's saved, and we're like, oh no, this is not good.
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But then a goal late in the first half, three goals in the second half.
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It ended up being a laugher.
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Four to one, Kansas City wins in a must-win game against Denver.
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Yeah, what a fun second half, right?
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It had to get through the trenches of the first half, as you mentioned.
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But this was a game what I would expect from two teams that were in the form that they were in coming into the match.
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We knew, and we talked about it even right here on the show, that Denver was thriving.
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They were really coming together and peeking at the time that they really needed to.
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Obviously, Lindsay Heaps making a huge impact.
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She came in uh after the last time Kansas City played Denver, which was July.
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Um, but she's come in and made it a huge impact, assists, goals, and obviously we saw her today.
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We saw her at this match, uh, put one away, and she really earned it.
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So um we expected it to be a good match.
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We knew Kansas City didn't have Caribathon, but was feeling great about the form that Shawingo is in, obviously at home, uh, which is always huge for Kansas City.
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So we we expected an exciting match, and man, did we get it?
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And now 30 straight regular season games at home without a loss.
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The current keeps extending this record that I really feel will never be broken.
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And in in this game, Haley Hopkins was the hero.
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She gets a hat trick.
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It was unbelievable, and three very different goals.
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What's been the key for her this year?
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To go from a good player, sometimes she starts, sometimes she comes off the bench, and now she's a game in, game out starter.
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She has eight goals in the year.
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Yeah, she's been amazing this year.
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And I appreciate that you said the different types of goals because I think that's something that has almost gone under the radar.
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Uh, Haley Hopkins is this emerging player that's quickly becoming a player to watch as a part of this offense.
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She's not Shuinga.
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She is not the um, you know, obviously this um polarizing player that everybody knows about and everybody is watching all week long and planning their whole entire game plan around.
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But Haley Hopkins is now making teams defend her differently.
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So I think she's coming in almost under the radar.
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Um, and just watching her, as you mentioned, whether it was coming off the bench and giving that like surge of energy that the team needed or just sheer aggression.
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Um, her role has not been defined by sub, starter, etc.
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And that's so cool for a player, uh, not a rookie at that.
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You know, she's got some years under her belt.
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So for her to continue to evolve is amazing.
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And I think she just displayed so many different skill sets.
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Um, for me, it was the grit and the will to continue through that tackle with Smith at the goalkeeper for defender.
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She never gave up.
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She probably didn't have the upper hand in that tackle, but man, her work ethic, her belief won that tackle.
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And then to have the composure and the technicality to put that shot away, tough angle, uh, tough, you know, lots of pressure and defender coming in.
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Um, and then even just the finesse of the shot from Tim Washiwinga's perfect pass, set it up on a platter.
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Um, she just displayed a lot of patience, a lot of composure and technicality to put that one away.
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Uh, everything she did this match was incredible.
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And I think she, like I mentioned, is becoming a player to watch on this team.
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Really excited to watch her to continue to grow.
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The second goal where she stole it off the foot of goalkeeper Abby Smith.
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Like you said, it wasn't an easy finish.
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She made it look easy.
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That ends up being the game winner.
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Yeah.
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And then the insurance goal was one where there's this awesome footage from the ref cam, right?
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And it ends up being uh a case where it looks like Denver's about to score.
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And Heaps has a shot blocked, and then Izzy Rodriguez looks like she's just clearing it, but it ends up being a perfect pass that starts a counterattack.
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And then you see Haley Hopkins go from jogging to be like, oh, Shawinga's got the ball, and she goes full sprint to get into a spot.
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And I remember we called it on the broadcast, Shawinga's dribbling up, but Hopkins is wide open on her right, and Shawinga saw her, and that was a great pass, but Hopkins had to really hustle to try to catch up.
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I mean, the athleticism that she needed to stay with Showinga, the speed, and also uh the mentality.
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To your point, she didn't make her run too early, so she maintained her onside position.
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She didn't go too wide, too close to bring another defender.
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She did everything right.
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And on that same note, I know we'll talk about this, but that run from Shuinga and the timing of that pass could not have been better.
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But yeah, 10 seconds before it was knocking around in the mixer, Lindsay Heaps looked like she's a scorer.
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And then to your point, Izzy Rodriguez, did we know that did she know Showinga was making that run, or was she just clearing it, you know, trying to save her life here?
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Who knows?
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Uh, but it did turn into an incredible play.
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Um, and again, just in the insurance goal, like you mentioned, but there's so much to break down there from both players.
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But again, Haley Hopkins just doing everything right, nothing overly crazy.
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She's not gonna beat somebody down the line like Shawinga will, but she's putting herself in the right spots, she has the right mentality, and then is executing beautifully.
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We had not seen Tim Wa Shawinga really look like the best version of herself for a month or two, right?
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Because she missed time with the national team, she came back, she was sick.
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Um, she did fine the two previous games, but this she really looked like that MVP candidate we're used to seeing.
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And I think that helped Haley Hopkins as well.
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Showinga got a lot of attention, got an assist, still got a goal, but she was an absolute beast out there.
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Yeah, I said this before, but vintage Shewinga, she is back, she's in her form.
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She even said it post-match.
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She said, little by little, I'm feeling myself again and I'm feeling really good.
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But I think it's also we have to give her credit for she forced the penalty.
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She was making Io OK's life very difficult.
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That right back for Denver.
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She was putting her to work the entire match.
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Io OK did a really nice job hanging with her, but she was almost stride for stride, but no one's gonna be stride for stride with Shuinga.
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And then she gets hit that foul right at there.
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So she drew the penalty.
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Unfortunately, it wasn't converted.
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But you have to credit Shuinga for that, um, for creating that opportunity.
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And then, of course, finishing off of the assist from Vanessa Di Bernardo, love a little cheeky back heel.
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But yeah, Shuinga is really looking like her old self.
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And where I saw it most, Dave, is not only the sprints and the runs and on the ball, um, you know, distracting and demanding attention from defenders, she was recovering beautifully.
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We know her defensive effort is always top-notch, but even just watching her recover, she was like the energizer bunny.
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She never once seemed to slow down, and that's the shwingo we know and love.
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The win has huge playoff implications.
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The current, if they would have not won this game, would not control their own destiny.
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Now they're in seventh place.
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There's a lot of teams red hot all around them, including Seattle won the night before to leapfrog the current.
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The current actually started the game outside the playoff position with the win.
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They're in seventh place.
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And it's just it's really exciting to think about what this team could be if they get in the playoffs and Shuinga's in form.
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Hopkins is obviously in form.
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If Cooper can stay healthy, if Bethune comes back, this team has a lot of upside.
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And on that note, now we get to bring in the one and only veteran NWSL broadcaster, former NWSL player.
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It's Jordan Angeli.
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Jordan, thank you so much for joining.
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We're so excited to have you this week.
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You were very busy over the weekend with not one, not two, but three matches that you were on the call for.
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Um, what were your biggest takeaways from the results after week 23 of NWSL play?
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Well, first off, thank you guys so much for having me.
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I wish I was with you in person because this studio looks beautiful.
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And yeah, I always love being able to chat with you guys, whether in person or on coaches' calls.
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So thanks for having me on the podcast.
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Let's see.
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There is a lot to digest after this weekend, isn't there?
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I think the Utah result over North Carolina is gigantic.
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This Utah team, without two of their main players, get a result against a team that they needed to.
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Uh, North Carolina looking for a playoff spot.
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Angel City, I think we're gonna talk about that.
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What the heck's going on there?
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Oh my gosh, that was a big result.
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Beating Washington in the waning minutes.
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And let's see, gosh, what else was going on?
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I think I have to go with Kansas City stomping my Denver summit.
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That was a tough one, guys.
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That was a tough one.
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But um it was a really exciting game.
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The first, I don't know if it felt like that at the stadium, but watching it the first 20 minutes, I was like, I feel like I was watching a tennis match.
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It was like one end, the other end.
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It was crazy.
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Yeah, and it was a wild game.
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We talked about it last segment, but Denver came in with all sorts of momentum.
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They've been red hot, scoring tons of goals, Kansas City coming off a loss, and it was kind of a must-win game for both.
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And then Denver scores first, and we're like, uh-oh.
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And then De Bini has a penalty kick save, and it's like, oh no, this is not good because Denver looks super dangerous up to that point.
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But then Kansas City just kind of steamrolled.
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It was it was like a tale of two different games almost.
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It was so interesting because typically those moments like that where it was a can we all agree it was a soft pen?
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Yes.
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It was a soft pen.
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But I would say Showinga and Aka were that was a really fun matchup.
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And I I think Shuinga got the better of her many a times.
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But in this particular moment, you're like, the ball don't lie, the save is made, and you're thinking, oh, that's gonna give momentum to Denver.
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And it was like the exact opposite.
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You don't often see that because it was then Kansas City who um, you know, got to do something really special.
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I I think that was Hopkins.
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That's a first ever time.
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Three goals on three shots on goal.
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Like, and I'm happy for her because she you mentioned I've been in this league for a long time.
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She's been in this league as a player for a long time, and oftentimes is, you know, I don't think second fiddle is the right word for her, but she's often the just uh role player, and so I was I was like, this is awesome.
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You get to have a hat, like what a cool thing.
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You got a hat trick, and at home, in that stadium, it's I'm sure that was a day she'll never forget.
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Yeah, it was exciting for the fans, it was exciting for her, it was exciting for broadcasters like us, um, getting to watch her do that because to your point, we even just chatted about this.
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She is uh almost an overlooked player, but now she is getting to a point where she's demanding attention, and it's so cool to see.
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Um, and a team that's kind of demanding attention right now.
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I gotta get your thoughts on Angel City.
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You know, the only team to pick up points in I think their last six matches, uh, are they in form to make a run toward the top of the table, in your opinion?
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They just look really sharp right now.
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That's a good question.
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Top of the table, I don't know.
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I I don't know that.
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I do think that they look really good.
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They've it's it's still kind of a 4-2-3-1, but it reverts to a 4-4-2 sometimes.
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And I think by having Jansdotter and Chalufia up front with two players that have a lot of pace, it's kind of this one-two punch uh at times.
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But then you bring in a player like Mayara Noose, who I I have a podcast called Soccer Wise, and I talk about Mayara Noose all the time because I think Noose is a really she's she has a lot of different attributes that a player in a 10 role don't typically have.
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And so I really like her.
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How do you get all these players on at the same time?
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I for Leif Schmerud, he doesn't really care right now because everything's working.
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Giselle Thompson higher up on the field is working, it's clicking.
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And we know this better than anyone, as people who've watched this league for a long time.
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You have to peek at the right time.
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So I don't know if Angel City will make top four.
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I don't know if they'll get a home playoff spot.
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I fully expect them to be in the playoffs now with how they've been playing as of late.
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It feels like they're peaking, it feels like they're healthy.
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They have options off the bench who are just as dangerous as the ones that they have starting, which is what you want.
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And I think that teams are not gonna want to play them in the playoffs because they have, I think, second most shutouts in the the league right now.
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They have a really good defense in Sam's and Gordon.
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Those two have a good combination where their attributes really sh let each other shine.
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So I wouldn't I wouldn't want to play them in the playoffs, to be honest.
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If it was a one-off game, no, thank you.
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Jordan, we'd love to get your take on the playoff picture and how this is gonna shake out.
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Looking at the standings, the top four look like they're almost definitely gonna be in Gotham for sure, San Diego, Washington, Utah.
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But then five through nine, you're talking about four points separating those five teams.
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So Portland with 43.
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We mentioned Angel City, 42, the current 41, Seattle, 40, and then on the outside looking in right now, I think still in the mix for sure is North Carolina 39 points, just one point out of the last spot.
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And I think Denver's still in the mix.
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The formation.
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And I was like, Dave, give me Denver.
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Come on, keep me looking here.
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No, I think Denver's still in the mix.
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But do you have a guess on you know who's most likely to get in?
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Who's maybe the one or two teams that don't get in based on what you've seen lately?
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Oh what I've seen lately, I can't remember when it was.
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Maybe a month, a little over a month ago, I said Seattle's making uh it was August 1st, I think.
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I was on the Ion show and I was like, Seattle's making the playoffs.
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I don't feel that way anymore.
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And I know they got a big win over the weekend with Jess Fishlock getting a brace, and that's great, but I just don't think you can expect that every single weekend from a player who um that's one, that's not her strongest attribute.
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And two, the the other players on your team are not scoring goals.
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So I I don't know if Seattle is gonna make it.
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I'm trying to look at the other ones.
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I don't know, you guys.
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This is this is gonna be difficult because Portland, although I don't think they had the best game over the weekend, have a really good one to put with Tordan and Wilson.
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Hanks is back healthy, weaver's back healthy.
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It it'll be interesting.
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I really have no idea.
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And I I feel like in these next couple weeks, there's a there's a few really big games.
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I know Denver plays Angel City.
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I don't know who who did who does Kansas City have over the next couple of weeks.
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AFC is this weekend, but then there's a big one against Washington down the road, too, that would have big playoff implications.
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And Utah also.
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Utah.
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Yeah.
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Yeah, and Washington's only at 46 points.
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But it's it's wild.
00:14:45.440 --> 00:15:06.720
If they don't, if they don't get themselves together, they could slide down the table too, with some of these teams chasing, which I think all of us throughout the majority of the season were saying this Washington team is the deepest team that we have seen, and yet they're not finding results right now, especially at home, which is you guys know better than anybody.
00:15:06.879 --> 00:15:10.879
If you can get those points at home, then you're really feeling good about things.
00:15:11.039 --> 00:15:13.440
Yeah, I I wish I could tell you, Dave.
00:15:13.519 --> 00:15:15.440
I honestly I don't know.
00:15:16.240 --> 00:15:21.759
But it might look it might look similar to how it does, maybe not the rankings of teams.
00:15:22.000 --> 00:15:28.159
I would take Seattle out and put Denver in there.
00:15:29.440 --> 00:15:32.960
I can't not say Denver, but it's really good too.
00:15:33.279 --> 00:15:34.159
They look really good.
00:15:34.320 --> 00:15:36.879
My eyes are also on North Carolina.
00:15:37.120 --> 00:15:48.159
Obviously, Ashley Sanchez having a career year, just tied the record that we know very well, was set by Temois Swingoff with 20 goals in regular season with five, four games left.
00:15:48.399 --> 00:15:54.000
Um, however, is she enough to propel her squad into the top eight?
00:15:54.480 --> 00:15:55.600
Not sure, right?
00:15:55.919 --> 00:15:56.480
Yeah.
00:15:56.799 --> 00:15:59.360
That has been the question for North Carolina.
00:15:59.440 --> 00:16:09.120
And also they've had a big struggle because they've been scoring goals, but their center back, they're playing actually with two backup center backs as of late because Macy Bell's out with an SEI shoulder injury.
00:16:09.279 --> 00:16:11.759
Natalie Jacobs has been out with a head for a while.
00:16:11.919 --> 00:16:16.799
And those two, when they were together, that North Carolina team looked really solid front to back.
00:16:17.039 --> 00:16:20.879
Um, but they get Jackson back this weekend, which I think really helps them centrally.
00:16:21.039 --> 00:16:24.240
Riley Jackson, I think they need Allie Schlegel back.
00:16:24.320 --> 00:16:26.320
They bring in a couple of new pieces.
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:31.279
I like what North Carolina has to do has going forward.
00:16:31.440 --> 00:16:33.679
And I it's not just Sanchez.
00:16:33.840 --> 00:16:37.360
She gets a lot of the credit because she scored 20 goals.
00:16:37.519 --> 00:16:41.759
But I think Erica Meg has been one of the best newcomers we ever seen to this league.
00:16:42.000 --> 00:16:45.360
She's uh how old is she, 18 or 19?
00:16:45.600 --> 00:16:47.759
And she didn't start the first game.
00:16:47.840 --> 00:16:58.159
She started every single game since then, and taken over a spot with like really big shoes to fill in Manaka, and just done it her own way.
00:16:58.240 --> 00:17:04.160
And so the combination between Sanchez, EJ, Erica Meg is interesting in the way that they attack.
00:17:04.720 --> 00:17:08.160
I just I'm aren't you guys so happy for Ashley Sanchez?
00:17:08.400 --> 00:17:14.480
I've anytime you see a player just having a year like this, I mean, you can't not root her on.
00:17:14.640 --> 00:17:15.279
It's incredible.
00:17:15.680 --> 00:17:16.640
We've talked about a lot.
00:17:16.799 --> 00:17:21.920
She's always been a good player, but it's amazing to see going from a good player to a historic player.
00:17:22.079 --> 00:17:28.400
And I don't know if you have a take on what's different for her this year, to go from being good to playing at a superstar level.
00:17:28.960 --> 00:17:31.599
I have a couple of thoughts on it for sure.
00:17:31.839 --> 00:17:38.400
And what's interesting is we've always known that she's had brilliance inside of her because we've seen glimpses of it, right?
00:17:38.480 --> 00:17:42.240
But it's been glimpses and consistency has always been her thing.
00:17:42.720 --> 00:17:48.960
A couple of things she said in the offseason, weirdly enough, her her fiancé was like, You should train as a left-winger.
00:17:49.200 --> 00:17:50.720
I think you'd be really good at this.
00:17:50.960 --> 00:17:56.240
And then when Mac Lynn came in, he he's a really incredible human being.
00:17:56.319 --> 00:18:00.880
I don't know if you guys have heard any stories about him or he called it, didn't he?
00:18:01.119 --> 00:18:01.680
What'd you say?
00:18:01.759 --> 00:18:02.720
Yeah, he called it.
00:18:02.880 --> 00:18:12.000
He did he did call it, but he has um the way he approaches coaching, is heavily influenced about how from how he's a father.
00:18:12.160 --> 00:18:13.680
He's a father of four girls.
00:18:13.839 --> 00:18:20.000
Um, his oldest daughter has Down syndrome and was told that she wasn't going to be able to do anything in her life.
00:18:20.160 --> 00:18:22.559
And he told the doctors, no, she will.
00:18:22.720 --> 00:18:23.279
Like she will.
00:18:23.359 --> 00:18:24.480
I believe that she will.
00:18:24.640 --> 00:18:38.960
And so he, with that belief that he has learned through um his daughter and how he's raised his daughter, he's kind of brought that same belief into coaching and saying, if I don't believe in these players, who's going to believe in them?
00:18:39.119 --> 00:18:42.720
Who's going to allow them to tap into their potential?
00:18:42.880 --> 00:18:45.200
They need someone to say, you can do this.
00:18:45.359 --> 00:18:47.039
I think you have it in you.
00:18:47.279 --> 00:18:51.200
And he does it in so many different ways of how he coaches.
00:18:51.359 --> 00:18:55.039
But specifically with Ashley Sanchez, I think he put that nugget in her head.
00:18:55.119 --> 00:18:57.519
He said, You're going to score 20 goals this year.
00:18:57.680 --> 00:19:02.880
At the beginning of preseason, he he saw something in her when he was watching film before he even started coaching them.
00:19:02.960 --> 00:19:04.559
And he said, You're going to score 20 goals.
00:19:04.640 --> 00:19:06.720
And just someone believing that you can do that.
00:19:06.799 --> 00:19:07.759
We've all been there, right?
00:19:07.920 --> 00:19:11.440
Of someone in our life believing that we can do something that we didn't really think we could.
00:19:11.680 --> 00:19:22.319
I think it allowed her to not only dig in and get really honed in on some of the tactical things he's asked from her from a defensive standpoint, but also an offensive standpoint.
00:19:22.480 --> 00:19:26.960
But also say, like, I'm free to try this.
00:19:27.119 --> 00:19:35.759
And I think that there's a freedom in the way that she's playing that has allowed her to just go after it and not worry if she makes mistakes.
00:19:36.000 --> 00:19:42.960
And that's why I think we're really drawn into it is because we love watching a player play with that freedom and the joy.
00:19:43.200 --> 00:19:45.599
And she just looks like she's having so much fun.
00:19:45.759 --> 00:19:47.839
I'm sure you would be if you scored 20 goals.
00:19:48.000 --> 00:19:54.240
But a little background on like why he's been, he's just a brilliant man and a brilliant coach.
00:19:54.400 --> 00:20:03.759
And I just love the mentality he's instilled within this group of, you know, they don't they don't think about how many times they succeed or fail, they just think about how many times they tried.
00:20:04.240 --> 00:20:06.160
What a what a cool little nugget there.
00:20:06.240 --> 00:20:06.960
Thank you for sharing that.
00:20:07.039 --> 00:20:07.759
I did not know that.
00:20:07.920 --> 00:20:10.720
But again, um, awesome to watch her.
00:20:10.799 --> 00:20:14.400
Like, I feel like as a fan of this league and as a broadcaster, what a cool thing.
00:20:14.480 --> 00:20:15.920
We got to watch Tim Washwinga do it.
00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:17.759
Now we're getting to watch Ashley Sanchez do it.
00:20:17.920 --> 00:20:18.559
Um, really cool.
00:20:18.640 --> 00:20:20.720
Well, we certainly appreciate you, Jordan.
00:20:21.039 --> 00:20:25.519
One of the most well-known voices in NWSL broadcasting, obviously former player.
00:20:25.599 --> 00:20:26.960
Um, just an overall queen.
00:20:27.039 --> 00:20:28.160
We appreciate your time, Jordan.
00:20:28.400 --> 00:20:29.279
Thanks for joining us.
00:20:29.599 --> 00:20:30.240
Thanks, Dave.
00:20:30.319 --> 00:20:30.960
Thanks, Jillian.
00:20:31.200 --> 00:20:31.920
Appreciate you guys.
00:20:32.160 --> 00:20:33.279
All right, take care.
00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:35.759
Man, great stuff there from Jordan Angeli.
00:20:35.839 --> 00:20:40.480
We've talked to some great guests already here in the short period of the current situation, but she might be my favorite.
00:20:40.559 --> 00:20:41.519
That was a fun conversation.
00:20:41.759 --> 00:20:49.440
I love the little nuggets, and I love the kind of this is the story that she shared with us and covering the league this long and being you know on every broadcast call and everything.
00:20:49.519 --> 00:20:51.920
She's got a lot of knowledge, so love her to share that.
00:20:52.160 --> 00:20:55.759
I would have had zero interest in rooting for North Carolina the rest of the way.
00:20:55.839 --> 00:20:59.759
Right before the conversation, I'm like, oh shoot, no, I hope they kind of get that last spot.
00:21:00.079 --> 00:21:01.039
That was cool to hear.
00:21:01.119 --> 00:21:02.880
Um, all right, current coming off a huge win.
00:21:02.960 --> 00:21:05.200
It's another huge game coming up this weekend.
00:21:05.359 --> 00:21:10.240
On paper, it's an easier game, but we know an NWSL that never matters whatsoever.
00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:12.640
The last place team could beat the first place team.
00:21:12.720 --> 00:21:13.759
We've seen crazy stuff.
00:21:13.920 --> 00:21:20.559
So Bay FC comes in, the current faced them a few weeks ago and kind of stole the game with a goal in the dying moments.
00:21:20.720 --> 00:21:25.839
Rocky Rodriguez, long range, first goal as a member of the current, two to one win for Kansas City.
00:21:26.000 --> 00:21:28.799
Bay FC's coming off a loss, the current's coming off a huge win.
00:21:28.960 --> 00:21:33.839
We know about this long, undefeated streak, 30 straight regular season games at home without a loss for Kansas City.
00:21:34.079 --> 00:21:35.440
It seems promising.
00:21:35.519 --> 00:21:37.519
What are your thoughts overall on this matchup?
00:21:37.759 --> 00:21:41.759
It does seem promising, and I love to bring up that Rocky Rodriguez goal, by the way.
00:21:41.920 --> 00:21:44.400
I will rewatch that as many times as I can.
00:21:44.559 --> 00:21:51.599
Um, but yeah, this team obviously sitting in 13th position, but even more importantly, is they're already mathematically eliminated from the playoffs.
00:21:51.920 --> 00:21:54.480
So that is, I think, the biggest factor.
00:21:54.799 --> 00:21:57.359
How are they going to come into CP Casey Stadium?
00:21:57.599 --> 00:21:59.279
Are they defeated enough mentally?
00:21:59.440 --> 00:22:03.839
Are they Wanting to go out and ruin someone's day, so to speak.
00:22:04.240 --> 00:22:05.359
So that's the big question.
00:22:05.519 --> 00:22:09.039
We know players like Claire Hutton on that team, Alex Pfeiff on that team.
00:22:09.119 --> 00:22:10.559
They know this stadium very well.
00:22:10.720 --> 00:22:15.519
I think they would love to come in and kind of stomp out some of Kansas City's hopes and dreams.
00:22:15.599 --> 00:22:21.519
Also, Rachel Kundananji is just such a veteran of this league and just such a dangerous offensive threat.
00:22:22.000 --> 00:22:24.880
All of those players, they are prideful players.
00:22:24.960 --> 00:22:28.079
So I don't see them coming in like, oh, we're already out.
00:22:28.240 --> 00:22:31.920
Let's just, you know, travel out there and play in this fortress of a place.
00:22:32.000 --> 00:22:33.599
I think they're gonna bring a big game.
00:22:33.759 --> 00:22:36.000
So for Kansas City, it's important.
00:22:36.240 --> 00:22:42.880
Um, I don't think they walk in there like, let's get our 31st under, you know, undefeated uh streak.
00:22:42.960 --> 00:22:48.880
I I don't think that that's how Kansas City players approach this, but they're extremely prideful of what they've built here.
00:22:48.960 --> 00:22:50.799
Um, and they know what's on the line here.
00:22:50.960 --> 00:22:54.799
They are at a place for me that they need the momentum to build and build and build.
00:22:54.880 --> 00:22:56.640
They don't have time for any setbacks.
00:22:56.799 --> 00:22:58.799
They had many setbacks this year.
00:22:59.200 --> 00:23:01.119
Their their season was up and down, up and down.
00:23:01.200 --> 00:23:12.079
I think that it's extremely important for them to coast on this momentum, keep this rhythm going, and get three more points with not only just a win, but like a commanding victory.
00:23:12.240 --> 00:23:13.839
So that's what I expect from the match.
00:23:14.079 --> 00:23:18.000
But Current haven't just had setbacks this year, they had setbacks in the last game, right?
00:23:18.240 --> 00:23:22.079
I mean, they give up an early goal, which has been a pattern they've loved to change.
00:23:22.160 --> 00:23:24.000
They have a penalty kick saved.
00:23:24.079 --> 00:23:28.559
I mean, that's two really big things that could easily have spiraled the game the wrong way.
00:23:28.640 --> 00:23:40.400
Uh Kansas City now with eight come from a high-end wins this year, and that's the third most in a season in NWSL history, which shows a lot of grit and perseverance and mental toughness, but that's not necessarily the stat you want at the same time.
00:23:40.480 --> 00:23:42.559
So it's kind of like a two-edged sword.
00:23:42.720 --> 00:23:46.799
Um, is there anything you can put your finger on for kind of these slow starts?
00:23:46.880 --> 00:23:51.599
Because, like you said, what could help Kansas City the most getting into the playoffs?
00:23:51.759 --> 00:23:53.039
Being healthy is the big one.
00:23:53.200 --> 00:23:56.559
But the second is can you play a full 90 minutes starting from the opening whistle?
00:23:56.720 --> 00:24:04.799
Kansas City, a lot of minutes this year has looked like themselves from last year, but it hasn't been the full 90 minutes most games.
00:24:04.880 --> 00:24:10.400
In the last game, it was the last 10 minutes of the first half plus the entire second half, the current look great.
00:24:10.559 --> 00:24:15.920
But how can they come out at home from the opening whistle and play like they did in the second half against Denver?
00:24:16.160 --> 00:24:22.400
Yeah, for me, it's it's the how many times has the true starting 11 actually started together?
00:24:22.640 --> 00:24:24.079
And I don't know that number, Dave.
00:24:24.240 --> 00:24:25.759
I don't even know if it's more than a handful of 10.
00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:26.799
I think it's three or four.
00:24:27.440 --> 00:24:29.279
I was gonna say, I don't even think it's more than that.
00:24:29.440 --> 00:24:36.000
But uh so I attribute their slower starts to okay, who's in today?
00:24:36.559 --> 00:24:40.960
Let's settle into this match, let's figure out where we're going, what we're doing, who's where.
00:24:41.359 --> 00:24:45.200
And no, you'd so much rather prefer the the same 11.
00:24:45.279 --> 00:24:49.440
You know, in 2025, Kansas City was the most consistent team, right?
00:24:49.599 --> 00:24:58.400
Obviously, that was proven uh by their historic, you know, run and and winning the shield in such a way that may never be done again.
00:24:58.640 --> 00:25:01.119
But how many times did they have the starting 11 start?
00:25:01.279 --> 00:25:03.920
Probably more than 75 to 80 percent, if I had to guess.
00:25:04.079 --> 00:25:05.359
This year it's the complete opposite.
00:25:05.440 --> 00:25:08.799
So they're showing the grit, the resilience, the mentality.
00:25:08.880 --> 00:25:12.640
They're coming together to get overcome, you know, to overcome the setback.
00:25:12.799 --> 00:25:28.079
And I don't think you can blame this squad because it is uh it's just ever-changing, it's a revolving door, and everybody who shows up does their absolute best, but it's just been taking them a second or two to really just settle in and figure out, okay, who's where and what are we doing, and what is it today?
00:25:28.240 --> 00:25:38.480
So I think that is an incredible, you know, skill set, specifically heading into the playoffs, because we know in the playoffs it is just things open up like crazy, right?
00:25:38.720 --> 00:25:42.799
And so you have to have that um who's ready, get in, next man up.
00:25:42.880 --> 00:25:45.519
Uh, and they're already displaying that they've done that quite well.
00:25:45.680 --> 00:25:48.319
So something for me is obviously be healthy.
00:25:48.400 --> 00:25:52.559
Um, and then hopefully looking for some composure, so or excuse me, some consistency.
00:25:52.720 --> 00:25:58.240
Um, so hopefully moving forward, we're gonna start to see some of that as we did see Shuinga back in full form.
00:25:58.400 --> 00:26:01.839
We're hearing buzz about Bethune potentially returning.
00:26:02.000 --> 00:26:18.000
We don't know, but to your point, I think that coming together healthy, the regular 11, if you will, or even something close to it, uh, that's what's gonna turn this team into a team that is gonna walk into the playoffs with everyone scared of them.
00:26:18.319 --> 00:26:19.599
You mentioned some of the key players.
00:26:19.759 --> 00:26:22.559
Bay does have a couple former KC current players.
00:26:22.640 --> 00:26:26.880
So even though they're coming off a pretty big loss, three to one, that might make them hang their head.
00:26:26.960 --> 00:26:27.440
I agree with you.
00:26:27.519 --> 00:26:32.160
I think coming in here, knowing how dominating of the fortress this is and wanting payback.
00:26:32.240 --> 00:26:35.359
We saw the emotions from Hutton and Pfeiffer in the game a few weeks ago.
00:26:35.440 --> 00:26:37.440
So I do think they'll come in fired up.
00:26:37.519 --> 00:26:40.319
Uh, what about tactics, strategy, keys to the game?
00:26:40.559 --> 00:26:42.480
What do you think is gonna be key for Coach Chris Armas?
00:26:42.720 --> 00:26:44.160
I forgot to mention Jordan Silkowitz.
00:26:44.240 --> 00:26:44.400
Yep.
00:26:44.480 --> 00:26:45.440
So we can't forget that.
00:26:45.519 --> 00:26:51.599
Uh, she's had some monster games this year, and I know she loved to come back to CPKC stadium and perform quite well.
00:26:51.759 --> 00:26:58.240
Um, keys to the game for me, it's gonna be trying to limit Hutton's distribution to Kundananji.
00:26:58.720 --> 00:27:04.880
This goal from their last match against Orlando, they pulled one back, and it was all Claire Hutton, a stunning cross.
00:27:04.960 --> 00:27:12.400
It was almost like a diving header from Rachel Kundananji backside, but she's stealthy, she's hard to keep track of, if you will.
00:27:12.480 --> 00:27:17.599
And Kundananji is just like I said earlier, just like an extremely dangerous uh offensive threat.
00:27:17.759 --> 00:27:22.000
So it's gonna be not only limiting Claire Hutton, but it's just distribution to her in general.
00:27:22.160 --> 00:27:26.559
Uh, and for Kansas City, we have seen different back four quite a few times.
00:27:26.720 --> 00:27:32.319
I have huge trust in Lainey Rouse's speed, uh, e-ball, if she's out there on that right side.
00:27:32.480 --> 00:27:35.440
Um, you know, welcoming Gabby Robinson back has been huge.
00:27:35.599 --> 00:27:37.759
Obviously, Rouse will be back after the suspension.
00:27:37.839 --> 00:27:45.279
We don't know who's starting, but I think that those few handful of players are really gonna have to track Kundananji and take her out of this match.
00:27:45.440 --> 00:27:47.359
I'm taking 2-0 Kansas City.
00:27:47.519 --> 00:27:48.160
That's my prediction.
00:27:48.240 --> 00:27:48.720
What do you think?
00:27:49.039 --> 00:27:49.519
I like that.
00:27:49.599 --> 00:27:51.200
Um, I wouldn't mind the 3-0.
00:27:51.759 --> 00:27:53.440
Uh I'll I'll go 3-0.
00:27:53.759 --> 00:27:53.920
Okay.
00:27:54.079 --> 00:27:54.559
I like that.
00:27:54.640 --> 00:27:57.039
I I think based off the last game, that's pretty realistic.
00:27:57.119 --> 00:28:00.960
I just can't think BFC would come in with such a risky strategy.
00:28:01.119 --> 00:28:04.640
I thought Denver was kind of crazy, the high line they were playing.
00:28:05.119 --> 00:28:06.000
Against our speed.
00:28:06.240 --> 00:28:10.079
So I'm I'm thinking maybe BFC is more conservative, keeps Kansas City more low scoring.
00:28:10.160 --> 00:28:11.440
But you're right, the momentum's there.
00:28:11.519 --> 00:28:13.039
Maybe the current score is three or four again.
00:28:13.359 --> 00:28:21.759
And to your point, they're a little more aware, I think, of um what Shawinga can do and not only what Shawinga can do, but now we've seen Haley Hopkins and what she's doing.
00:28:21.839 --> 00:28:24.079
And then you say Michelle Cooper, and the list goes on.
00:28:24.240 --> 00:28:29.759
So I do think that the back line of Bay, which we've seen um some of their veterans are not playing right now.
00:28:29.920 --> 00:28:32.400
Caprice Idesco is out on maternity leave.
00:28:32.559 --> 00:28:35.359
Um, it they don't have some of their core back four.
00:28:35.599 --> 00:28:36.640
So who knows?
00:28:36.799 --> 00:28:40.559
To your point, I don't expect a high line, but I do expect an open game.
00:28:40.720 --> 00:28:47.839
I do expect the midfield in Vanessa Di Ronardo and Lola Bonta to continue to find ways to get behind or send balls behind the back line.
00:28:48.000 --> 00:28:50.000
I do expect a lot out of Cooper this match.
00:28:50.079 --> 00:28:50.720
I will say that.
00:28:50.799 --> 00:28:54.640
I will put it into the universe that I think she's gonna have a pretty big match.
00:28:54.720 --> 00:28:56.400
Um, always showinga.
00:28:56.880 --> 00:29:00.720
Love seeing Haley Hopkins join the party here, eight goals on the season.
00:29:00.799 --> 00:29:02.960
But yeah, I think my eyes are gonna be on Cooper this match.
00:29:03.119 --> 00:29:04.799
All right, it's time for fan questions.
00:29:04.880 --> 00:29:08.240
We would love to have you submit your questions through the KC Current app.
00:29:08.400 --> 00:29:10.240
Rachel has asked, Chillion.
00:29:10.480 --> 00:29:12.960
We talk about the current hasn't had a lot of health this year.
00:29:13.039 --> 00:29:15.440
There's been lots of games with different lineups.
00:29:15.599 --> 00:29:21.200
If it's if it's the first playoff game and everybody's healthy, what's Chris Armist's starting lineup?
00:29:21.359 --> 00:29:23.599
Ooh, let me put my coaching hat on here.
00:29:24.079 --> 00:29:25.680
Hopefully, Armist is not listening.
00:29:25.759 --> 00:29:27.359
But if you are, here's what I got for you.
00:29:27.599 --> 00:29:28.319
Hopefully he is listening.
00:29:28.400 --> 00:29:29.200
Yeah, we got good ideas.
00:29:29.440 --> 00:29:30.240
Here's what I got, Coach.
00:29:30.319 --> 00:29:31.200
I'm gonna go Lorena.
00:29:31.359 --> 00:29:37.920
Yeah, I do feel like um she's had nagging injuries, but when she is feeling really good, um, she's she's just done such a great job.
00:29:38.000 --> 00:29:39.039
So I'm gonna go Lorena.
00:29:39.279 --> 00:29:41.440
I'm gonna go Izzy on the left.
00:29:41.680 --> 00:29:49.759
Uh I would love to go Sharples on the right center because we know she's a right footer, but where I'm gonna keep her on the left center, I'm gonna go Elizabeth Ball, right center.
00:29:49.839 --> 00:29:51.680
I'm gonna go Lainey Rouse right back.
00:29:51.839 --> 00:29:52.480
Yep.
00:29:52.799 --> 00:30:00.480
Then I will go, I will go Lola Bonta, Vanessa Di Bernardo as the six, the eight.
00:30:00.640 --> 00:30:06.640
And I'd love to see uh almost a double ten with Vanessa Di Bernardo getting high up the pitch.
00:30:07.119 --> 00:30:12.640
Um, and I trust so much Lola Bonta to kind of clean up the mess and be the linchpin from the back floor to the front.
00:30:12.799 --> 00:30:26.960
Um, and then I'd like to see, I would like to see, oh, this is where it gets so hard for me because we've got Croy back if we're she's healthy, we've got Deb, and then you've got Coop, Shuinga, Hopkins.
00:30:27.440 --> 00:30:32.720
I'm gonna go Temois on the outside up top.
00:30:33.279 --> 00:30:34.799
I'm gonna go Deb 9.
00:30:35.119 --> 00:30:38.720
Oh, that's a gutsy call with Haley coming off a hat trick.
00:30:38.799 --> 00:30:48.880
And I'm gonna go Coop on the right, Croy at the 10, and then bring in Hopkins after we score one or two goals and see if she can get us a few more.
00:30:49.119 --> 00:30:49.599
Interesting.
00:30:49.759 --> 00:30:51.599
I don't think I could sit Haley Hopkins right now.
00:30:51.680 --> 00:30:51.759
I know.
00:30:52.000 --> 00:30:53.359
But I also wouldn't want to sit Debinia.
00:30:53.519 --> 00:30:54.480
I don't want to sit any of that.
00:30:54.720 --> 00:30:57.200
Yeah, and there's also a good debate at center back, too, right?
00:30:57.279 --> 00:31:00.960
There's three good players for two spots, so that'll be interesting.
00:31:01.119 --> 00:31:04.720
And then you got Atala Jamelli who's who's come up and done a really solid job.
00:31:04.799 --> 00:31:08.160
She's knocking on the door, but yes, I agree with Sharples, Robinson, ball.
00:31:08.240 --> 00:31:09.839
I mean, you it's just interchangeable, really.
00:31:10.079 --> 00:31:12.960
Yeah, and honestly, Rocky Rodriguez has been in good form.
00:31:13.039 --> 00:31:15.519
So is Vanessa Di Bernardo, so has Bailey Feist.
00:31:15.599 --> 00:31:22.559
So Chris Armas hasn't had this problem this year because of injuries, but hopefully it seems like the team's getting healthy at the right time.
00:31:22.720 --> 00:31:24.480
Yeah, making his job more difficult.
00:31:24.799 --> 00:31:26.240
Chris, we applaud you.
00:31:26.559 --> 00:31:31.359
All right, we have a big event coming up here at CPKC Stadium in October.
00:31:31.519 --> 00:31:32.400
October 25th.
00:31:32.480 --> 00:31:41.039
Join the Kansas City Current for one current 2026, a supercharged match day experience on Sunday, October 25th here at CPKC Stadium in Current Landing.
00:31:41.200 --> 00:31:48.480
You can be a part of the largest gathering of current fans in club history as the current celebrates the regular season finale at home.
00:31:48.559 --> 00:31:53.759
It's fan appreciation night as well, and you can enjoy expanded capacity here at the stadium.
00:31:53.920 --> 00:32:01.359
Exclusive giveaways, including KC Current Flag for the first 10,000 attendees, and stick around after the match for a watch party.
00:32:01.680 --> 00:32:06.079
Kansas City NFL team against the Seahawks, defending Super Bowl champs.
00:32:06.160 --> 00:32:08.240
There'll be Chiefs legends here as well.
00:32:08.400 --> 00:32:09.359
So check it all out.
00:32:09.519 --> 00:32:15.039
Ground passes start at just$10, and you can learn more and secure your spot at KansasCityCurrent.com.
00:32:15.119 --> 00:32:20.640
Again, it's the one current 2026, one club, one city, one unforgettable day.
00:32:20.720 --> 00:32:22.559
And we know the stadium's gonna be expanding.
00:32:22.720 --> 00:32:25.920
18,000 fans, and this is a chance to get a sneak preview of that.
00:32:26.079 --> 00:32:27.119
I'm so excited for this.
00:32:27.279 --> 00:32:29.279
I think it's like if you build it, they will come.
00:32:29.680 --> 00:32:30.319
We've built it.
00:32:30.480 --> 00:32:31.839
Come on down, Kansas City.
00:32:32.000 --> 00:32:34.720
Come check out uh everything Current Landing has to offer.
00:32:34.880 --> 00:32:37.599
We're having a ton of fun with added pregame show and post-game show.
00:32:37.680 --> 00:32:40.240
It's gonna be up on the massive Jumbotron.
00:32:40.720 --> 00:32:44.400
Uh, there's a DJ, there's music, there is just family friendly activities.
00:32:44.480 --> 00:32:45.680
There's so much going on here.
00:32:45.759 --> 00:32:52.640
And so it's uh to your point, when we hit when we do finally get 18,000 at the matches, uh, let's get started now, right?
00:32:52.799 --> 00:32:53.440
Come hang out.
00:32:53.599 --> 00:32:55.519
It's gonna be awesome in a big game this weekend.
00:32:55.599 --> 00:32:58.640
Hopefully, the current can get three more points against Bay FC.
00:32:58.799 --> 00:32:59.680
That'll do it for us.
00:32:59.759 --> 00:33:03.759
Thanks so much for tuning in to the current situation, and we'll talk to you next week.
00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.520
Hello, KC Current fans, and welcome once again to the current situation.
00:00:03.680 --> 00:00:04.879
Thanks so much for tuning in.
00:00:05.040 --> 00:00:08.960
Dave Orchard alongside Jilly and Carol Lutrico, we have a lot to talk about.
00:00:09.119 --> 00:00:12.000
We'll talk to Jordan Angeli coming up next segment.
00:00:12.160 --> 00:00:15.519
Former NWSL midfielder, veteran, NWSL broadcaster.
00:00:15.599 --> 00:00:16.879
We'll take a look around the league.
00:00:16.960 --> 00:00:19.760
We'll preview the game coming up this weekend against Bay FC.
00:00:19.839 --> 00:00:22.879
Of course, we'll talk more about everything going on with the playoff scenarios.
00:00:23.039 --> 00:00:25.359
It's a tight race for those last few spots.
00:00:25.519 --> 00:00:27.120
But let's start with the great news.
00:00:27.359 --> 00:00:28.800
And we hyped it up last week.
00:00:28.879 --> 00:00:31.199
This was the biggest game left on the current schedule.
00:00:31.359 --> 00:00:32.799
It didn't start the way we wanted.
00:00:32.960 --> 00:00:35.439
Early goal, 13th met from Lindsay Heaps.
00:00:35.759 --> 00:00:39.920
Meanie gets a penalty, it's saved, and we're like, oh no, this is not good.
00:00:40.000 --> 00:00:43.280
But then a goal late in the first half, three goals in the second half.
00:00:43.359 --> 00:00:44.479
It ended up being a laugher.
00:00:44.640 --> 00:00:47.600
Four to one, Kansas City wins in a must-win game against Denver.
00:00:47.759 --> 00:00:49.679
Yeah, what a fun second half, right?
00:00:50.079 --> 00:00:52.719
It had to get through the trenches of the first half, as you mentioned.
00:00:52.880 --> 00:00:59.920
But this was a game what I would expect from two teams that were in the form that they were in coming into the match.
00:01:00.079 --> 00:01:03.600
We knew, and we talked about it even right here on the show, that Denver was thriving.
00:01:03.759 --> 00:01:06.959
They were really coming together and peeking at the time that they really needed to.
00:01:07.120 --> 00:01:09.760
Obviously, Lindsay Heaps making a huge impact.
00:01:09.920 --> 00:01:14.959
She came in uh after the last time Kansas City played Denver, which was July.
00:01:15.040 --> 00:01:20.239
Um, but she's come in and made it a huge impact, assists, goals, and obviously we saw her today.
00:01:20.799 --> 00:01:24.480
We saw her at this match, uh, put one away, and she really earned it.
00:01:24.640 --> 00:01:26.640
So um we expected it to be a good match.
00:01:26.719 --> 00:01:36.159
We knew Kansas City didn't have Caribathon, but was feeling great about the form that Shawingo is in, obviously at home, uh, which is always huge for Kansas City.
00:01:36.239 --> 00:01:38.799
So we we expected an exciting match, and man, did we get it?
00:01:39.040 --> 00:01:42.239
And now 30 straight regular season games at home without a loss.
00:01:42.319 --> 00:01:45.920
The current keeps extending this record that I really feel will never be broken.
00:01:46.000 --> 00:01:48.879
And in in this game, Haley Hopkins was the hero.
00:01:48.959 --> 00:01:50.239
She gets a hat trick.
00:01:50.480 --> 00:01:53.200
It was unbelievable, and three very different goals.
00:01:53.359 --> 00:01:55.200
What's been the key for her this year?
00:01:55.359 --> 00:02:02.159
To go from a good player, sometimes she starts, sometimes she comes off the bench, and now she's a game in, game out starter.
00:02:02.239 --> 00:02:03.280
She has eight goals in the year.
00:02:03.439 --> 00:02:04.879
Yeah, she's been amazing this year.
00:02:04.959 --> 00:02:11.840
And I appreciate that you said the different types of goals because I think that's something that has almost gone under the radar.
00:02:11.919 --> 00:02:18.319
Uh, Haley Hopkins is this emerging player that's quickly becoming a player to watch as a part of this offense.
00:02:18.479 --> 00:02:19.360
She's not Shuinga.
00:02:19.680 --> 00:02:30.400
She is not the um, you know, obviously this um polarizing player that everybody knows about and everybody is watching all week long and planning their whole entire game plan around.
00:02:30.560 --> 00:02:34.960
But Haley Hopkins is now making teams defend her differently.
00:02:35.039 --> 00:02:37.520
So I think she's coming in almost under the radar.
00:02:37.599 --> 00:02:46.560
Um, and just watching her, as you mentioned, whether it was coming off the bench and giving that like surge of energy that the team needed or just sheer aggression.
00:02:46.719 --> 00:02:52.240
Um, her role has not been defined by sub, starter, etc.
00:02:52.560 --> 00:02:56.080
And that's so cool for a player, uh, not a rookie at that.
00:02:56.159 --> 00:02:58.000
You know, she's got some years under her belt.
00:02:58.080 --> 00:03:00.240
So for her to continue to evolve is amazing.
00:03:00.400 --> 00:03:03.280
And I think she just displayed so many different skill sets.
00:03:03.439 --> 00:03:09.840
Um, for me, it was the grit and the will to continue through that tackle with Smith at the goalkeeper for defender.
00:03:10.000 --> 00:03:10.879
She never gave up.
00:03:11.039 --> 00:03:17.759
She probably didn't have the upper hand in that tackle, but man, her work ethic, her belief won that tackle.
00:03:17.919 --> 00:03:26.719
And then to have the composure and the technicality to put that shot away, tough angle, uh, tough, you know, lots of pressure and defender coming in.
00:03:26.800 --> 00:03:34.240
Um, and then even just the finesse of the shot from Tim Washiwinga's perfect pass, set it up on a platter.
00:03:34.560 --> 00:03:39.039
Um, she just displayed a lot of patience, a lot of composure and technicality to put that one away.
00:03:39.199 --> 00:03:41.360
Uh, everything she did this match was incredible.
00:03:41.439 --> 00:03:44.879
And I think she, like I mentioned, is becoming a player to watch on this team.
00:03:45.120 --> 00:03:47.039
Really excited to watch her to continue to grow.
00:03:47.360 --> 00:03:50.879
The second goal where she stole it off the foot of goalkeeper Abby Smith.
00:03:50.960 --> 00:03:52.479
Like you said, it wasn't an easy finish.
00:03:52.560 --> 00:03:53.520
She made it look easy.
00:03:53.599 --> 00:03:54.960
That ends up being the game winner.
00:03:55.039 --> 00:03:55.120
Yeah.
00:03:55.280 --> 00:04:00.400
And then the insurance goal was one where there's this awesome footage from the ref cam, right?
00:04:00.560 --> 00:04:04.719
And it ends up being uh a case where it looks like Denver's about to score.
00:04:04.879 --> 00:04:11.599
And Heaps has a shot blocked, and then Izzy Rodriguez looks like she's just clearing it, but it ends up being a perfect pass that starts a counterattack.
00:04:11.680 --> 00:04:18.399
And then you see Haley Hopkins go from jogging to be like, oh, Shawinga's got the ball, and she goes full sprint to get into a spot.
00:04:18.480 --> 00:04:27.759
And I remember we called it on the broadcast, Shawinga's dribbling up, but Hopkins is wide open on her right, and Shawinga saw her, and that was a great pass, but Hopkins had to really hustle to try to catch up.
00:04:28.000 --> 00:04:33.759
I mean, the athleticism that she needed to stay with Showinga, the speed, and also uh the mentality.
00:04:33.839 --> 00:04:38.879
To your point, she didn't make her run too early, so she maintained her onside position.
00:04:39.040 --> 00:04:41.920
She didn't go too wide, too close to bring another defender.
00:04:42.000 --> 00:04:42.879
She did everything right.
00:04:43.040 --> 00:04:50.160
And on that same note, I know we'll talk about this, but that run from Shuinga and the timing of that pass could not have been better.
00:04:50.319 --> 00:04:55.040
But yeah, 10 seconds before it was knocking around in the mixer, Lindsay Heaps looked like she's a scorer.
00:04:55.120 --> 00:05:03.439
And then to your point, Izzy Rodriguez, did we know that did she know Showinga was making that run, or was she just clearing it, you know, trying to save her life here?
00:05:03.600 --> 00:05:04.240
Who knows?
00:05:04.399 --> 00:05:06.959
Uh, but it did turn into an incredible play.
00:05:07.040 --> 00:05:12.399
Um, and again, just in the insurance goal, like you mentioned, but there's so much to break down there from both players.
00:05:12.480 --> 00:05:17.360
But again, Haley Hopkins just doing everything right, nothing overly crazy.
00:05:17.600 --> 00:05:26.160
She's not gonna beat somebody down the line like Shawinga will, but she's putting herself in the right spots, she has the right mentality, and then is executing beautifully.
00:05:26.480 --> 00:05:31.600
We had not seen Tim Wa Shawinga really look like the best version of herself for a month or two, right?
00:05:31.680 --> 00:05:34.879
Because she missed time with the national team, she came back, she was sick.
00:05:35.040 --> 00:05:40.240
Um, she did fine the two previous games, but this she really looked like that MVP candidate we're used to seeing.
00:05:40.319 --> 00:05:42.160
And I think that helped Haley Hopkins as well.
00:05:42.319 --> 00:05:47.920
Showinga got a lot of attention, got an assist, still got a goal, but she was an absolute beast out there.
00:05:48.079 --> 00:05:52.959
Yeah, I said this before, but vintage Shewinga, she is back, she's in her form.
00:05:53.199 --> 00:05:54.399
She even said it post-match.
00:05:54.480 --> 00:05:57.279
She said, little by little, I'm feeling myself again and I'm feeling really good.
00:05:57.439 --> 00:06:00.879
But I think it's also we have to give her credit for she forced the penalty.
00:06:01.360 --> 00:06:05.279
She was making Io OK's life very difficult.
00:06:05.519 --> 00:06:06.879
That right back for Denver.
00:06:07.040 --> 00:06:08.959
She was putting her to work the entire match.
00:06:09.279 --> 00:06:15.519
Io OK did a really nice job hanging with her, but she was almost stride for stride, but no one's gonna be stride for stride with Shuinga.
00:06:15.759 --> 00:06:17.680
And then she gets hit that foul right at there.
00:06:17.759 --> 00:06:18.639
So she drew the penalty.
00:06:18.720 --> 00:06:19.920
Unfortunately, it wasn't converted.
00:06:20.160 --> 00:06:24.319
But you have to credit Shuinga for that, um, for creating that opportunity.
00:06:24.399 --> 00:06:29.279
And then, of course, finishing off of the assist from Vanessa Di Bernardo, love a little cheeky back heel.
00:06:29.360 --> 00:06:31.920
But yeah, Shuinga is really looking like her old self.
00:06:32.000 --> 00:06:42.079
And where I saw it most, Dave, is not only the sprints and the runs and on the ball, um, you know, distracting and demanding attention from defenders, she was recovering beautifully.
00:06:42.240 --> 00:06:49.120
We know her defensive effort is always top-notch, but even just watching her recover, she was like the energizer bunny.
00:06:49.199 --> 00:06:52.480
She never once seemed to slow down, and that's the shwingo we know and love.
00:06:52.800 --> 00:06:54.959
The win has huge playoff implications.
00:06:55.120 --> 00:06:58.160
The current, if they would have not won this game, would not control their own destiny.
00:06:58.240 --> 00:06:59.519
Now they're in seventh place.
00:06:59.759 --> 00:07:04.879
There's a lot of teams red hot all around them, including Seattle won the night before to leapfrog the current.
00:07:04.959 --> 00:07:08.480
The current actually started the game outside the playoff position with the win.
00:07:08.560 --> 00:07:09.839
They're in seventh place.
00:07:10.079 --> 00:07:16.160
And it's just it's really exciting to think about what this team could be if they get in the playoffs and Shuinga's in form.
00:07:16.319 --> 00:07:17.759
Hopkins is obviously in form.
00:07:17.839 --> 00:07:21.839
If Cooper can stay healthy, if Bethune comes back, this team has a lot of upside.
00:07:22.079 --> 00:07:28.240
And on that note, now we get to bring in the one and only veteran NWSL broadcaster, former NWSL player.
00:07:28.319 --> 00:07:29.360
It's Jordan Angeli.
00:07:29.439 --> 00:07:30.720
Jordan, thank you so much for joining.
00:07:30.800 --> 00:07:32.879
We're so excited to have you this week.
00:07:33.040 --> 00:07:39.040
You were very busy over the weekend with not one, not two, but three matches that you were on the call for.
00:07:39.199 --> 00:07:44.160
Um, what were your biggest takeaways from the results after week 23 of NWSL play?
00:07:44.319 --> 00:07:47.040
Well, first off, thank you guys so much for having me.
00:07:47.279 --> 00:07:51.920
I wish I was with you in person because this studio looks beautiful.
00:07:52.160 --> 00:07:57.279
And yeah, I always love being able to chat with you guys, whether in person or on coaches' calls.
00:07:57.360 --> 00:07:59.920
So thanks for having me on the podcast.
00:08:00.160 --> 00:08:01.040
Let's see.
00:08:01.279 --> 00:08:04.639
There is a lot to digest after this weekend, isn't there?
00:08:04.879 --> 00:08:08.480
I think the Utah result over North Carolina is gigantic.
00:08:08.639 --> 00:08:15.040
This Utah team, without two of their main players, get a result against a team that they needed to.
00:08:15.120 --> 00:08:17.759
Uh, North Carolina looking for a playoff spot.
00:08:18.000 --> 00:08:20.160
Angel City, I think we're gonna talk about that.
00:08:20.240 --> 00:08:21.360
What the heck's going on there?
00:08:21.519 --> 00:08:23.199
Oh my gosh, that was a big result.
00:08:23.360 --> 00:08:25.759
Beating Washington in the waning minutes.
00:08:26.160 --> 00:08:29.839
And let's see, gosh, what else was going on?
00:08:30.000 --> 00:08:33.600
I think I have to go with Kansas City stomping my Denver summit.
00:08:33.840 --> 00:08:35.120
That was a tough one, guys.
00:08:35.200 --> 00:08:36.480
That was a tough one.
00:08:37.039 --> 00:08:42.000
But um it was a really exciting game.
00:08:42.240 --> 00:08:49.440
The first, I don't know if it felt like that at the stadium, but watching it the first 20 minutes, I was like, I feel like I was watching a tennis match.
00:08:49.519 --> 00:08:52.799
It was like one end, the other end.
00:08:52.960 --> 00:08:53.919
It was crazy.
00:08:54.159 --> 00:08:55.519
Yeah, and it was a wild game.
00:08:55.600 --> 00:08:59.200
We talked about it last segment, but Denver came in with all sorts of momentum.
00:08:59.360 --> 00:09:05.120
They've been red hot, scoring tons of goals, Kansas City coming off a loss, and it was kind of a must-win game for both.
00:09:05.200 --> 00:09:07.519
And then Denver scores first, and we're like, uh-oh.
00:09:07.759 --> 00:09:13.840
And then De Bini has a penalty kick save, and it's like, oh no, this is not good because Denver looks super dangerous up to that point.
00:09:13.919 --> 00:09:15.679
But then Kansas City just kind of steamrolled.
00:09:15.840 --> 00:09:18.320
It was it was like a tale of two different games almost.
00:09:18.559 --> 00:09:25.440
It was so interesting because typically those moments like that where it was a can we all agree it was a soft pen?
00:09:25.679 --> 00:09:25.919
Yes.
00:09:27.519 --> 00:09:28.720
It was a soft pen.
00:09:29.120 --> 00:09:33.360
But I would say Showinga and Aka were that was a really fun matchup.
00:09:33.519 --> 00:09:36.399
And I I think Shuinga got the better of her many a times.
00:09:36.480 --> 00:09:43.840
But in this particular moment, you're like, the ball don't lie, the save is made, and you're thinking, oh, that's gonna give momentum to Denver.
00:09:43.919 --> 00:09:46.159
And it was like the exact opposite.
00:09:46.320 --> 00:09:53.759
You don't often see that because it was then Kansas City who um, you know, got to do something really special.
00:09:53.919 --> 00:09:55.360
I I think that was Hopkins.
00:09:55.440 --> 00:09:56.399
That's a first ever time.
00:09:56.639 --> 00:09:58.720
Three goals on three shots on goal.
00:09:58.799 --> 00:10:03.600
Like, and I'm happy for her because she you mentioned I've been in this league for a long time.
00:10:03.679 --> 00:10:16.720
She's been in this league as a player for a long time, and oftentimes is, you know, I don't think second fiddle is the right word for her, but she's often the just uh role player, and so I was I was like, this is awesome.
00:10:16.799 --> 00:10:18.559
You get to have a hat, like what a cool thing.
00:10:18.639 --> 00:10:25.440
You got a hat trick, and at home, in that stadium, it's I'm sure that was a day she'll never forget.
00:10:25.679 --> 00:10:34.080
Yeah, it was exciting for the fans, it was exciting for her, it was exciting for broadcasters like us, um, getting to watch her do that because to your point, we even just chatted about this.
00:10:34.320 --> 00:10:40.000
She is uh almost an overlooked player, but now she is getting to a point where she's demanding attention, and it's so cool to see.
00:10:40.240 --> 00:10:43.600
Um, and a team that's kind of demanding attention right now.
00:10:43.840 --> 00:10:45.679
I gotta get your thoughts on Angel City.
00:10:45.759 --> 00:10:53.919
You know, the only team to pick up points in I think their last six matches, uh, are they in form to make a run toward the top of the table, in your opinion?
00:10:54.080 --> 00:10:55.600
They just look really sharp right now.
00:10:55.840 --> 00:10:56.879
That's a good question.
00:10:57.200 --> 00:10:59.600
Top of the table, I don't know.
00:10:59.759 --> 00:11:01.279
I I don't know that.
00:11:01.519 --> 00:11:03.120
I do think that they look really good.
00:11:03.279 --> 00:11:10.080
They've it's it's still kind of a 4-2-3-1, but it reverts to a 4-4-2 sometimes.
00:11:10.159 --> 00:11:18.000
And I think by having Jansdotter and Chalufia up front with two players that have a lot of pace, it's kind of this one-two punch uh at times.
00:11:18.159 --> 00:11:35.039
But then you bring in a player like Mayara Noose, who I I have a podcast called Soccer Wise, and I talk about Mayara Noose all the time because I think Noose is a really she's she has a lot of different attributes that a player in a 10 role don't typically have.
00:11:35.279 --> 00:11:36.320
And so I really like her.
00:11:36.399 --> 00:11:38.399
How do you get all these players on at the same time?
00:11:38.559 --> 00:11:42.559
I for Leif Schmerud, he doesn't really care right now because everything's working.
00:11:42.720 --> 00:11:46.559
Giselle Thompson higher up on the field is working, it's clicking.
00:11:46.799 --> 00:11:51.360
And we know this better than anyone, as people who've watched this league for a long time.
00:11:51.919 --> 00:11:53.600
You have to peek at the right time.
00:11:53.840 --> 00:11:56.639
So I don't know if Angel City will make top four.
00:11:56.720 --> 00:11:59.679
I don't know if they'll get a home playoff spot.
00:11:59.919 --> 00:12:04.399
I fully expect them to be in the playoffs now with how they've been playing as of late.
00:12:04.559 --> 00:12:06.799
It feels like they're peaking, it feels like they're healthy.
00:12:06.879 --> 00:12:14.320
They have options off the bench who are just as dangerous as the ones that they have starting, which is what you want.
00:12:14.559 --> 00:12:24.639
And I think that teams are not gonna want to play them in the playoffs because they have, I think, second most shutouts in the the league right now.
00:12:24.799 --> 00:12:27.919
They have a really good defense in Sam's and Gordon.
00:12:28.000 --> 00:12:33.039
Those two have a good combination where their attributes really sh let each other shine.
00:12:33.120 --> 00:12:36.720
So I wouldn't I wouldn't want to play them in the playoffs, to be honest.
00:12:36.879 --> 00:12:38.879
If it was a one-off game, no, thank you.
00:12:39.200 --> 00:12:42.720
Jordan, we'd love to get your take on the playoff picture and how this is gonna shake out.
00:12:42.879 --> 00:12:50.000
Looking at the standings, the top four look like they're almost definitely gonna be in Gotham for sure, San Diego, Washington, Utah.
00:12:50.159 --> 00:12:55.360
But then five through nine, you're talking about four points separating those five teams.
00:12:55.440 --> 00:12:57.039
So Portland with 43.
00:12:57.279 --> 00:13:09.440
We mentioned Angel City, 42, the current 41, Seattle, 40, and then on the outside looking in right now, I think still in the mix for sure is North Carolina 39 points, just one point out of the last spot.
00:13:09.600 --> 00:13:10.799
And I think Denver's still in the mix.
00:13:10.960 --> 00:13:11.440
The formation.
00:13:11.600 --> 00:13:12.720
And I was like, Dave, give me Denver.
00:13:12.799 --> 00:13:13.840
Come on, keep me looking here.
00:13:14.080 --> 00:13:15.279
No, I think Denver's still in the mix.
00:13:15.360 --> 00:13:18.320
But do you have a guess on you know who's most likely to get in?
00:13:18.399 --> 00:13:22.080
Who's maybe the one or two teams that don't get in based on what you've seen lately?
00:13:22.399 --> 00:13:26.000
Oh what I've seen lately, I can't remember when it was.
00:13:26.240 --> 00:13:31.840
Maybe a month, a little over a month ago, I said Seattle's making uh it was August 1st, I think.
00:13:31.919 --> 00:13:35.200
I was on the Ion show and I was like, Seattle's making the playoffs.
00:13:35.519 --> 00:13:37.200
I don't feel that way anymore.
00:13:37.440 --> 00:13:51.679
And I know they got a big win over the weekend with Jess Fishlock getting a brace, and that's great, but I just don't think you can expect that every single weekend from a player who um that's one, that's not her strongest attribute.
00:13:51.919 --> 00:13:55.360
And two, the the other players on your team are not scoring goals.
00:13:55.519 --> 00:13:59.759
So I I don't know if Seattle is gonna make it.
00:14:01.200 --> 00:14:02.960
I'm trying to look at the other ones.
00:14:03.120 --> 00:14:04.080
I don't know, you guys.
00:14:04.159 --> 00:14:15.440
This is this is gonna be difficult because Portland, although I don't think they had the best game over the weekend, have a really good one to put with Tordan and Wilson.
00:14:16.000 --> 00:14:19.039
Hanks is back healthy, weaver's back healthy.
00:14:19.440 --> 00:14:20.720
It it'll be interesting.
00:14:20.799 --> 00:14:22.000
I really have no idea.
00:14:22.320 --> 00:14:26.559
And I I feel like in these next couple weeks, there's a there's a few really big games.
00:14:26.639 --> 00:14:28.559
I know Denver plays Angel City.
00:14:28.720 --> 00:14:31.919
I don't know who who did who does Kansas City have over the next couple of weeks.
00:14:32.320 --> 00:14:37.600
AFC is this weekend, but then there's a big one against Washington down the road, too, that would have big playoff implications.
00:14:37.919 --> 00:14:38.879
And Utah also.
00:14:39.360 --> 00:14:39.600
Utah.
00:14:39.840 --> 00:14:40.240
Yeah.
00:14:40.559 --> 00:14:43.279
Yeah, and Washington's only at 46 points.
00:14:43.519 --> 00:14:45.279
But it's it's wild.
00:14:45.440 --> 00:15:06.720
If they don't, if they don't get themselves together, they could slide down the table too, with some of these teams chasing, which I think all of us throughout the majority of the season were saying this Washington team is the deepest team that we have seen, and yet they're not finding results right now, especially at home, which is you guys know better than anybody.
00:15:06.879 --> 00:15:10.879
If you can get those points at home, then you're really feeling good about things.
00:15:11.039 --> 00:15:13.440
Yeah, I I wish I could tell you, Dave.
00:15:13.519 --> 00:15:15.440
I honestly I don't know.
00:15:16.240 --> 00:15:21.759
But it might look it might look similar to how it does, maybe not the rankings of teams.
00:15:22.000 --> 00:15:28.159
I would take Seattle out and put Denver in there.
00:15:29.440 --> 00:15:32.960
I can't not say Denver, but it's really good too.
00:15:33.279 --> 00:15:34.159
They look really good.
00:15:34.320 --> 00:15:36.879
My eyes are also on North Carolina.
00:15:37.120 --> 00:15:48.159
Obviously, Ashley Sanchez having a career year, just tied the record that we know very well, was set by Temois Swingoff with 20 goals in regular season with five, four games left.
00:15:48.399 --> 00:15:54.000
Um, however, is she enough to propel her squad into the top eight?
00:15:54.480 --> 00:15:55.600
Not sure, right?
00:15:55.919 --> 00:15:56.480
Yeah.
00:15:56.799 --> 00:15:59.360
That has been the question for North Carolina.
00:15:59.440 --> 00:16:09.120
And also they've had a big struggle because they've been scoring goals, but their center back, they're playing actually with two backup center backs as of late because Macy Bell's out with an SEI shoulder injury.
00:16:09.279 --> 00:16:11.759
Natalie Jacobs has been out with a head for a while.
00:16:11.919 --> 00:16:16.799
And those two, when they were together, that North Carolina team looked really solid front to back.
00:16:17.039 --> 00:16:20.879
Um, but they get Jackson back this weekend, which I think really helps them centrally.
00:16:21.039 --> 00:16:24.240
Riley Jackson, I think they need Allie Schlegel back.
00:16:24.320 --> 00:16:26.320
They bring in a couple of new pieces.
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:31.279
I like what North Carolina has to do has going forward.
00:16:31.440 --> 00:16:33.679
And I it's not just Sanchez.
00:16:33.840 --> 00:16:37.360
She gets a lot of the credit because she scored 20 goals.
00:16:37.519 --> 00:16:41.759
But I think Erica Meg has been one of the best newcomers we ever seen to this league.
00:16:42.000 --> 00:16:45.360
She's uh how old is she, 18 or 19?
00:16:45.600 --> 00:16:47.759
And she didn't start the first game.
00:16:47.840 --> 00:16:58.159
She started every single game since then, and taken over a spot with like really big shoes to fill in Manaka, and just done it her own way.
00:16:58.240 --> 00:17:04.160
And so the combination between Sanchez, EJ, Erica Meg is interesting in the way that they attack.
00:17:04.720 --> 00:17:08.160
I just I'm aren't you guys so happy for Ashley Sanchez?
00:17:08.400 --> 00:17:14.480
I've anytime you see a player just having a year like this, I mean, you can't not root her on.
00:17:14.640 --> 00:17:15.279
It's incredible.
00:17:15.680 --> 00:17:16.640
We've talked about a lot.
00:17:16.799 --> 00:17:21.920
She's always been a good player, but it's amazing to see going from a good player to a historic player.
00:17:22.079 --> 00:17:28.400
And I don't know if you have a take on what's different for her this year, to go from being good to playing at a superstar level.
00:17:28.960 --> 00:17:31.599
I have a couple of thoughts on it for sure.
00:17:31.839 --> 00:17:38.400
And what's interesting is we've always known that she's had brilliance inside of her because we've seen glimpses of it, right?
00:17:38.480 --> 00:17:42.240
But it's been glimpses and consistency has always been her thing.
00:17:42.720 --> 00:17:48.960
A couple of things she said in the offseason, weirdly enough, her her fiancé was like, You should train as a left-winger.
00:17:49.200 --> 00:17:50.720
I think you'd be really good at this.
00:17:50.960 --> 00:17:56.240
And then when Mac Lynn came in, he he's a really incredible human being.
00:17:56.319 --> 00:18:00.880
I don't know if you guys have heard any stories about him or he called it, didn't he?
00:18:01.119 --> 00:18:01.680
What'd you say?
00:18:01.759 --> 00:18:02.720
Yeah, he called it.
00:18:02.880 --> 00:18:12.000
He did he did call it, but he has um the way he approaches coaching, is heavily influenced about how from how he's a father.
00:18:12.160 --> 00:18:13.680
He's a father of four girls.
00:18:13.839 --> 00:18:20.000
Um, his oldest daughter has Down syndrome and was told that she wasn't going to be able to do anything in her life.
00:18:20.160 --> 00:18:22.559
And he told the doctors, no, she will.
00:18:22.720 --> 00:18:23.279
Like she will.
00:18:23.359 --> 00:18:24.480
I believe that she will.
00:18:24.640 --> 00:18:38.960
And so he, with that belief that he has learned through um his daughter and how he's raised his daughter, he's kind of brought that same belief into coaching and saying, if I don't believe in these players, who's going to believe in them?
00:18:39.119 --> 00:18:42.720
Who's going to allow them to tap into their potential?
00:18:42.880 --> 00:18:45.200
They need someone to say, you can do this.
00:18:45.359 --> 00:18:47.039
I think you have it in you.
00:18:47.279 --> 00:18:51.200
And he does it in so many different ways of how he coaches.
00:18:51.359 --> 00:18:55.039
But specifically with Ashley Sanchez, I think he put that nugget in her head.
00:18:55.119 --> 00:18:57.519
He said, You're going to score 20 goals this year.
00:18:57.680 --> 00:19:02.880
At the beginning of preseason, he he saw something in her when he was watching film before he even started coaching them.
00:19:02.960 --> 00:19:04.559
And he said, You're going to score 20 goals.
00:19:04.640 --> 00:19:06.720
And just someone believing that you can do that.
00:19:06.799 --> 00:19:07.759
We've all been there, right?
00:19:07.920 --> 00:19:11.440
Of someone in our life believing that we can do something that we didn't really think we could.
00:19:11.680 --> 00:19:22.319
I think it allowed her to not only dig in and get really honed in on some of the tactical things he's asked from her from a defensive standpoint, but also an offensive standpoint.
00:19:22.480 --> 00:19:26.960
But also say, like, I'm free to try this.
00:19:27.119 --> 00:19:35.759
And I think that there's a freedom in the way that she's playing that has allowed her to just go after it and not worry if she makes mistakes.
00:19:36.000 --> 00:19:42.960
And that's why I think we're really drawn into it is because we love watching a player play with that freedom and the joy.
00:19:43.200 --> 00:19:45.599
And she just looks like she's having so much fun.
00:19:45.759 --> 00:19:47.839
I'm sure you would be if you scored 20 goals.
00:19:48.000 --> 00:19:54.240
But a little background on like why he's been, he's just a brilliant man and a brilliant coach.
00:19:54.400 --> 00:20:03.759
And I just love the mentality he's instilled within this group of, you know, they don't they don't think about how many times they succeed or fail, they just think about how many times they tried.
00:20:04.240 --> 00:20:06.160
What a what a cool little nugget there.
00:20:06.240 --> 00:20:06.960
Thank you for sharing that.
00:20:07.039 --> 00:20:07.759
I did not know that.
00:20:07.920 --> 00:20:10.720
But again, um, awesome to watch her.
00:20:10.799 --> 00:20:14.400
Like, I feel like as a fan of this league and as a broadcaster, what a cool thing.
00:20:14.480 --> 00:20:15.920
We got to watch Tim Washwinga do it.
00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:17.759
Now we're getting to watch Ashley Sanchez do it.
00:20:17.920 --> 00:20:18.559
Um, really cool.
00:20:18.640 --> 00:20:20.720
Well, we certainly appreciate you, Jordan.
00:20:21.039 --> 00:20:25.519
One of the most well-known voices in NWSL broadcasting, obviously former player.
00:20:25.599 --> 00:20:26.960
Um, just an overall queen.
00:20:27.039 --> 00:20:28.160
We appreciate your time, Jordan.
00:20:28.400 --> 00:20:29.279
Thanks for joining us.
00:20:29.599 --> 00:20:30.240
Thanks, Dave.
00:20:30.319 --> 00:20:30.960
Thanks, Jillian.
00:20:31.200 --> 00:20:31.920
Appreciate you guys.
00:20:32.160 --> 00:20:33.279
All right, take care.
00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:35.759
Man, great stuff there from Jordan Angeli.
00:20:35.839 --> 00:20:40.480
We've talked to some great guests already here in the short period of the current situation, but she might be my favorite.
00:20:40.559 --> 00:20:41.519
That was a fun conversation.
00:20:41.759 --> 00:20:49.440
I love the little nuggets, and I love the kind of this is the story that she shared with us and covering the league this long and being you know on every broadcast call and everything.
00:20:49.519 --> 00:20:51.920
She's got a lot of knowledge, so love her to share that.
00:20:52.160 --> 00:20:55.759
I would have had zero interest in rooting for North Carolina the rest of the way.
00:20:55.839 --> 00:20:59.759
Right before the conversation, I'm like, oh shoot, no, I hope they kind of get that last spot.
00:21:00.079 --> 00:21:01.039
That was cool to hear.
00:21:01.119 --> 00:21:02.880
Um, all right, current coming off a huge win.
00:21:02.960 --> 00:21:05.200
It's another huge game coming up this weekend.
00:21:05.359 --> 00:21:10.240
On paper, it's an easier game, but we know an NWSL that never matters whatsoever.
00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:12.640
The last place team could beat the first place team.
00:21:12.720 --> 00:21:13.759
We've seen crazy stuff.
00:21:13.920 --> 00:21:20.559
So Bay FC comes in, the current faced them a few weeks ago and kind of stole the game with a goal in the dying moments.
00:21:20.720 --> 00:21:25.839
Rocky Rodriguez, long range, first goal as a member of the current, two to one win for Kansas City.
00:21:26.000 --> 00:21:28.799
Bay FC's coming off a loss, the current's coming off a huge win.
00:21:28.960 --> 00:21:33.839
We know about this long, undefeated streak, 30 straight regular season games at home without a loss for Kansas City.
00:21:34.079 --> 00:21:35.440
It seems promising.
00:21:35.519 --> 00:21:37.519
What are your thoughts overall on this matchup?
00:21:37.759 --> 00:21:41.759
It does seem promising, and I love to bring up that Rocky Rodriguez goal, by the way.
00:21:41.920 --> 00:21:44.400
I will rewatch that as many times as I can.
00:21:44.559 --> 00:21:51.599
Um, but yeah, this team obviously sitting in 13th position, but even more importantly, is they're already mathematically eliminated from the playoffs.
00:21:51.920 --> 00:21:54.480
So that is, I think, the biggest factor.
00:21:54.799 --> 00:21:57.359
How are they going to come into CP Casey Stadium?
00:21:57.599 --> 00:21:59.279
Are they defeated enough mentally?
00:21:59.440 --> 00:22:03.839
Are they Wanting to go out and ruin someone's day, so to speak.
00:22:04.240 --> 00:22:05.359
So that's the big question.
00:22:05.519 --> 00:22:09.039
We know players like Claire Hutton on that team, Alex Pfeiff on that team.
00:22:09.119 --> 00:22:10.559
They know this stadium very well.
00:22:10.720 --> 00:22:15.519
I think they would love to come in and kind of stomp out some of Kansas City's hopes and dreams.
00:22:15.599 --> 00:22:21.519
Also, Rachel Kundananji is just such a veteran of this league and just such a dangerous offensive threat.
00:22:22.000 --> 00:22:24.880
All of those players, they are prideful players.
00:22:24.960 --> 00:22:28.079
So I don't see them coming in like, oh, we're already out.
00:22:28.240 --> 00:22:31.920
Let's just, you know, travel out there and play in this fortress of a place.
00:22:32.000 --> 00:22:33.599
I think they're gonna bring a big game.
00:22:33.759 --> 00:22:36.000
So for Kansas City, it's important.
00:22:36.240 --> 00:22:42.880
Um, I don't think they walk in there like, let's get our 31st under, you know, undefeated uh streak.
00:22:42.960 --> 00:22:48.880
I I don't think that that's how Kansas City players approach this, but they're extremely prideful of what they've built here.
00:22:48.960 --> 00:22:50.799
Um, and they know what's on the line here.
00:22:50.960 --> 00:22:54.799
They are at a place for me that they need the momentum to build and build and build.
00:22:54.880 --> 00:22:56.640
They don't have time for any setbacks.
00:22:56.799 --> 00:22:58.799
They had many setbacks this year.
00:22:59.200 --> 00:23:01.119
Their their season was up and down, up and down.
00:23:01.200 --> 00:23:12.079
I think that it's extremely important for them to coast on this momentum, keep this rhythm going, and get three more points with not only just a win, but like a commanding victory.
00:23:12.240 --> 00:23:13.839
So that's what I expect from the match.
00:23:14.079 --> 00:23:18.000
But Current haven't just had setbacks this year, they had setbacks in the last game, right?
00:23:18.240 --> 00:23:22.079
I mean, they give up an early goal, which has been a pattern they've loved to change.
00:23:22.160 --> 00:23:24.000
They have a penalty kick saved.
00:23:24.079 --> 00:23:28.559
I mean, that's two really big things that could easily have spiraled the game the wrong way.
00:23:28.640 --> 00:23:40.400
Uh Kansas City now with eight come from a high-end wins this year, and that's the third most in a season in NWSL history, which shows a lot of grit and perseverance and mental toughness, but that's not necessarily the stat you want at the same time.
00:23:40.480 --> 00:23:42.559
So it's kind of like a two-edged sword.
00:23:42.720 --> 00:23:46.799
Um, is there anything you can put your finger on for kind of these slow starts?
00:23:46.880 --> 00:23:51.599
Because, like you said, what could help Kansas City the most getting into the playoffs?
00:23:51.759 --> 00:23:53.039
Being healthy is the big one.
00:23:53.200 --> 00:23:56.559
But the second is can you play a full 90 minutes starting from the opening whistle?
00:23:56.720 --> 00:24:04.799
Kansas City, a lot of minutes this year has looked like themselves from last year, but it hasn't been the full 90 minutes most games.
00:24:04.880 --> 00:24:10.400
In the last game, it was the last 10 minutes of the first half plus the entire second half, the current look great.
00:24:10.559 --> 00:24:15.920
But how can they come out at home from the opening whistle and play like they did in the second half against Denver?
00:24:16.160 --> 00:24:22.400
Yeah, for me, it's it's the how many times has the true starting 11 actually started together?
00:24:22.640 --> 00:24:24.079
And I don't know that number, Dave.
00:24:24.240 --> 00:24:25.759
I don't even know if it's more than a handful of 10.
00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:26.799
I think it's three or four.
00:24:27.440 --> 00:24:29.279
I was gonna say, I don't even think it's more than that.
00:24:29.440 --> 00:24:36.000
But uh so I attribute their slower starts to okay, who's in today?
00:24:36.559 --> 00:24:40.960
Let's settle into this match, let's figure out where we're going, what we're doing, who's where.
00:24:41.359 --> 00:24:45.200
And no, you'd so much rather prefer the the same 11.
00:24:45.279 --> 00:24:49.440
You know, in 2025, Kansas City was the most consistent team, right?
00:24:49.599 --> 00:24:58.400
Obviously, that was proven uh by their historic, you know, run and and winning the shield in such a way that may never be done again.
00:24:58.640 --> 00:25:01.119
But how many times did they have the starting 11 start?
00:25:01.279 --> 00:25:03.920
Probably more than 75 to 80 percent, if I had to guess.
00:25:04.079 --> 00:25:05.359
This year it's the complete opposite.
00:25:05.440 --> 00:25:08.799
So they're showing the grit, the resilience, the mentality.
00:25:08.880 --> 00:25:12.640
They're coming together to get overcome, you know, to overcome the setback.
00:25:12.799 --> 00:25:28.079
And I don't think you can blame this squad because it is uh it's just ever-changing, it's a revolving door, and everybody who shows up does their absolute best, but it's just been taking them a second or two to really just settle in and figure out, okay, who's where and what are we doing, and what is it today?
00:25:28.240 --> 00:25:38.480
So I think that is an incredible, you know, skill set, specifically heading into the playoffs, because we know in the playoffs it is just things open up like crazy, right?
00:25:38.720 --> 00:25:42.799
And so you have to have that um who's ready, get in, next man up.
00:25:42.880 --> 00:25:45.519
Uh, and they're already displaying that they've done that quite well.
00:25:45.680 --> 00:25:48.319
So something for me is obviously be healthy.
00:25:48.400 --> 00:25:52.559
Um, and then hopefully looking for some composure, so or excuse me, some consistency.
00:25:52.720 --> 00:25:58.240
Um, so hopefully moving forward, we're gonna start to see some of that as we did see Shuinga back in full form.
00:25:58.400 --> 00:26:01.839
We're hearing buzz about Bethune potentially returning.
00:26:02.000 --> 00:26:18.000
We don't know, but to your point, I think that coming together healthy, the regular 11, if you will, or even something close to it, uh, that's what's gonna turn this team into a team that is gonna walk into the playoffs with everyone scared of them.
00:26:18.319 --> 00:26:19.599
You mentioned some of the key players.
00:26:19.759 --> 00:26:22.559
Bay does have a couple former KC current players.
00:26:22.640 --> 00:26:26.880
So even though they're coming off a pretty big loss, three to one, that might make them hang their head.
00:26:26.960 --> 00:26:27.440
I agree with you.
00:26:27.519 --> 00:26:32.160
I think coming in here, knowing how dominating of the fortress this is and wanting payback.
00:26:32.240 --> 00:26:35.359
We saw the emotions from Hutton and Pfeiffer in the game a few weeks ago.
00:26:35.440 --> 00:26:37.440
So I do think they'll come in fired up.
00:26:37.519 --> 00:26:40.319
Uh, what about tactics, strategy, keys to the game?
00:26:40.559 --> 00:26:42.480
What do you think is gonna be key for Coach Chris Armas?
00:26:42.720 --> 00:26:44.160
I forgot to mention Jordan Silkowitz.
00:26:44.240 --> 00:26:44.400
Yep.
00:26:44.480 --> 00:26:45.440
So we can't forget that.
00:26:45.519 --> 00:26:51.599
Uh, she's had some monster games this year, and I know she loved to come back to CPKC stadium and perform quite well.
00:26:51.759 --> 00:26:58.240
Um, keys to the game for me, it's gonna be trying to limit Hutton's distribution to Kundananji.
00:26:58.720 --> 00:27:04.880
This goal from their last match against Orlando, they pulled one back, and it was all Claire Hutton, a stunning cross.
00:27:04.960 --> 00:27:12.400
It was almost like a diving header from Rachel Kundananji backside, but she's stealthy, she's hard to keep track of, if you will.
00:27:12.480 --> 00:27:17.599
And Kundananji is just like I said earlier, just like an extremely dangerous uh offensive threat.
00:27:17.759 --> 00:27:22.000
So it's gonna be not only limiting Claire Hutton, but it's just distribution to her in general.
00:27:22.160 --> 00:27:26.559
Uh, and for Kansas City, we have seen different back four quite a few times.
00:27:26.720 --> 00:27:32.319
I have huge trust in Lainey Rouse's speed, uh, e-ball, if she's out there on that right side.
00:27:32.480 --> 00:27:35.440
Um, you know, welcoming Gabby Robinson back has been huge.
00:27:35.599 --> 00:27:37.759
Obviously, Rouse will be back after the suspension.
00:27:37.839 --> 00:27:45.279
We don't know who's starting, but I think that those few handful of players are really gonna have to track Kundananji and take her out of this match.
00:27:45.440 --> 00:27:47.359
I'm taking 2-0 Kansas City.
00:27:47.519 --> 00:27:48.160
That's my prediction.
00:27:48.240 --> 00:27:48.720
What do you think?
00:27:49.039 --> 00:27:49.519
I like that.
00:27:49.599 --> 00:27:51.200
Um, I wouldn't mind the 3-0.
00:27:51.759 --> 00:27:53.440
Uh I'll I'll go 3-0.
00:27:53.759 --> 00:27:53.920
Okay.
00:27:54.079 --> 00:27:54.559
I like that.
00:27:54.640 --> 00:27:57.039
I I think based off the last game, that's pretty realistic.
00:27:57.119 --> 00:28:00.960
I just can't think BFC would come in with such a risky strategy.
00:28:01.119 --> 00:28:04.640
I thought Denver was kind of crazy, the high line they were playing.
00:28:05.119 --> 00:28:06.000
Against our speed.
00:28:06.240 --> 00:28:10.079
So I'm I'm thinking maybe BFC is more conservative, keeps Kansas City more low scoring.
00:28:10.160 --> 00:28:11.440
But you're right, the momentum's there.
00:28:11.519 --> 00:28:13.039
Maybe the current score is three or four again.
00:28:13.359 --> 00:28:21.759
And to your point, they're a little more aware, I think, of um what Shawinga can do and not only what Shawinga can do, but now we've seen Haley Hopkins and what she's doing.
00:28:21.839 --> 00:28:24.079
And then you say Michelle Cooper, and the list goes on.
00:28:24.240 --> 00:28:29.759
So I do think that the back line of Bay, which we've seen um some of their veterans are not playing right now.
00:28:29.920 --> 00:28:32.400
Caprice Idesco is out on maternity leave.
00:28:32.559 --> 00:28:35.359
Um, it they don't have some of their core back four.
00:28:35.599 --> 00:28:36.640
So who knows?
00:28:36.799 --> 00:28:40.559
To your point, I don't expect a high line, but I do expect an open game.
00:28:40.720 --> 00:28:47.839
I do expect the midfield in Vanessa Di Ronardo and Lola Bonta to continue to find ways to get behind or send balls behind the back line.
00:28:48.000 --> 00:28:50.000
I do expect a lot out of Cooper this match.
00:28:50.079 --> 00:28:50.720
I will say that.
00:28:50.799 --> 00:28:54.640
I will put it into the universe that I think she's gonna have a pretty big match.
00:28:54.720 --> 00:28:56.400
Um, always showinga.
00:28:56.880 --> 00:29:00.720
Love seeing Haley Hopkins join the party here, eight goals on the season.
00:29:00.799 --> 00:29:02.960
But yeah, I think my eyes are gonna be on Cooper this match.
00:29:03.119 --> 00:29:04.799
All right, it's time for fan questions.
00:29:04.880 --> 00:29:08.240
We would love to have you submit your questions through the KC Current app.
00:29:08.400 --> 00:29:10.240
Rachel has asked, Chillion.
00:29:10.480 --> 00:29:12.960
We talk about the current hasn't had a lot of health this year.
00:29:13.039 --> 00:29:15.440
There's been lots of games with different lineups.
00:29:15.599 --> 00:29:21.200
If it's if it's the first playoff game and everybody's healthy, what's Chris Armist's starting lineup?
00:29:21.359 --> 00:29:23.599
Ooh, let me put my coaching hat on here.
00:29:24.079 --> 00:29:25.680
Hopefully, Armist is not listening.
00:29:25.759 --> 00:29:27.359
But if you are, here's what I got for you.
00:29:27.599 --> 00:29:28.319
Hopefully he is listening.
00:29:28.400 --> 00:29:29.200
Yeah, we got good ideas.
00:29:29.440 --> 00:29:30.240
Here's what I got, Coach.
00:29:30.319 --> 00:29:31.200
I'm gonna go Lorena.
00:29:31.359 --> 00:29:37.920
Yeah, I do feel like um she's had nagging injuries, but when she is feeling really good, um, she's she's just done such a great job.
00:29:38.000 --> 00:29:39.039
So I'm gonna go Lorena.
00:29:39.279 --> 00:29:41.440
I'm gonna go Izzy on the left.
00:29:41.680 --> 00:29:49.759
Uh I would love to go Sharples on the right center because we know she's a right footer, but where I'm gonna keep her on the left center, I'm gonna go Elizabeth Ball, right center.
00:29:49.839 --> 00:29:51.680
I'm gonna go Lainey Rouse right back.
00:29:51.839 --> 00:29:52.480
Yep.
00:29:52.799 --> 00:30:00.480
Then I will go, I will go Lola Bonta, Vanessa Di Bernardo as the six, the eight.
00:30:00.640 --> 00:30:06.640
And I'd love to see uh almost a double ten with Vanessa Di Bernardo getting high up the pitch.
00:30:07.119 --> 00:30:12.640
Um, and I trust so much Lola Bonta to kind of clean up the mess and be the linchpin from the back floor to the front.
00:30:12.799 --> 00:30:26.960
Um, and then I'd like to see, I would like to see, oh, this is where it gets so hard for me because we've got Croy back if we're she's healthy, we've got Deb, and then you've got Coop, Shuinga, Hopkins.
00:30:27.440 --> 00:30:32.720
I'm gonna go Temois on the outside up top.
00:30:33.279 --> 00:30:34.799
I'm gonna go Deb 9.
00:30:35.119 --> 00:30:38.720
Oh, that's a gutsy call with Haley coming off a hat trick.
00:30:38.799 --> 00:30:48.880
And I'm gonna go Coop on the right, Croy at the 10, and then bring in Hopkins after we score one or two goals and see if she can get us a few more.
00:30:49.119 --> 00:30:49.599
Interesting.
00:30:49.759 --> 00:30:51.599
I don't think I could sit Haley Hopkins right now.
00:30:51.680 --> 00:30:51.759
I know.
00:30:52.000 --> 00:30:53.359
But I also wouldn't want to sit Debinia.
00:30:53.519 --> 00:30:54.480
I don't want to sit any of that.
00:30:54.720 --> 00:30:57.200
Yeah, and there's also a good debate at center back, too, right?
00:30:57.279 --> 00:31:00.960
There's three good players for two spots, so that'll be interesting.
00:31:01.119 --> 00:31:04.720
And then you got Atala Jamelli who's who's come up and done a really solid job.
00:31:04.799 --> 00:31:08.160
She's knocking on the door, but yes, I agree with Sharples, Robinson, ball.
00:31:08.240 --> 00:31:09.839
I mean, you it's just interchangeable, really.
00:31:10.079 --> 00:31:12.960
Yeah, and honestly, Rocky Rodriguez has been in good form.
00:31:13.039 --> 00:31:15.519
So is Vanessa Di Bernardo, so has Bailey Feist.
00:31:15.599 --> 00:31:22.559
So Chris Armas hasn't had this problem this year because of injuries, but hopefully it seems like the team's getting healthy at the right time.
00:31:22.720 --> 00:31:24.480
Yeah, making his job more difficult.
00:31:24.799 --> 00:31:26.240
Chris, we applaud you.
00:31:26.559 --> 00:31:31.359
All right, we have a big event coming up here at CPKC Stadium in October.
00:31:31.519 --> 00:31:32.400
October 25th.
00:31:32.480 --> 00:31:41.039
Join the Kansas City Current for one current 2026, a supercharged match day experience on Sunday, October 25th here at CPKC Stadium in Current Landing.
00:31:41.200 --> 00:31:48.480
You can be a part of the largest gathering of current fans in club history as the current celebrates the regular season finale at home.
00:31:48.559 --> 00:31:53.759
It's fan appreciation night as well, and you can enjoy expanded capacity here at the stadium.
00:31:53.920 --> 00:32:01.359
Exclusive giveaways, including KC Current Flag for the first 10,000 attendees, and stick around after the match for a watch party.
00:32:01.680 --> 00:32:06.079
Kansas City NFL team against the Seahawks, defending Super Bowl champs.
00:32:06.160 --> 00:32:08.240
There'll be Chiefs legends here as well.
00:32:08.400 --> 00:32:09.359
So check it all out.
00:32:09.519 --> 00:32:15.039
Ground passes start at just$10, and you can learn more and secure your spot at KansasCityCurrent.com.
00:32:15.119 --> 00:32:20.640
Again, it's the one current 2026, one club, one city, one unforgettable day.
00:32:20.720 --> 00:32:22.559
And we know the stadium's gonna be expanding.
00:32:22.720 --> 00:32:25.920
18,000 fans, and this is a chance to get a sneak preview of that.
00:32:26.079 --> 00:32:27.119
I'm so excited for this.
00:32:27.279 --> 00:32:29.279
I think it's like if you build it, they will come.
00:32:29.680 --> 00:32:30.319
We've built it.
00:32:30.480 --> 00:32:31.839
Come on down, Kansas City.
00:32:32.000 --> 00:32:34.720
Come check out uh everything Current Landing has to offer.
00:32:34.880 --> 00:32:37.599
We're having a ton of fun with added pregame show and post-game show.
00:32:37.680 --> 00:32:40.240
It's gonna be up on the massive Jumbotron.
00:32:40.720 --> 00:32:44.400
Uh, there's a DJ, there's music, there is just family friendly activities.
00:32:44.480 --> 00:32:45.680
There's so much going on here.
00:32:45.759 --> 00:32:52.640
And so it's uh to your point, when we hit when we do finally get 18,000 at the matches, uh, let's get started now, right?
00:32:52.799 --> 00:32:53.440
Come hang out.
00:32:53.599 --> 00:32:55.519
It's gonna be awesome in a big game this weekend.
00:32:55.599 --> 00:32:58.640
Hopefully, the current can get three more points against Bay FC.
00:32:58.799 --> 00:32:59.680
That'll do it for us.
00:32:59.759 --> 00:33:03.759
Thanks so much for tuning in to the current situation, and we'll talk to you next week.
