WEBVTT
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Hello, Casey Current fans.
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Welcome once again to the current situation.
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I'm Dave Bortrich alongside Jillian Carol Latrinko.
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And Gillian, we have right now, or Casey Current, one of the hottest teams in the NWSL.
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And I think they had to get a road win to really solidify that.
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We knew they were playing great with back-to-back dominant home wins, but we talked about this last week.
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It was a real playoff preview type of game, going to altitude, going against a Utah team that was ahead of them in the standings.
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And the final score is 2-0, but really it could have been three or four-nothing for Kansas City.
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Yeah, there were some really good opportunities.
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I think two goals called back from VAR, but I agree with you.
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The team went on the road and made a statement with this win.
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Obviously, coming off of international break, you just don't know how teams are gonna come back, how players are gonna travel well.
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We've had players coming from all over the world back to Kansas City.
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And then a short quick turn to go over to Utah and again play in elevation altitude is a big difference, a big difference maker, a big impact.
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Uh, but they really showed up.
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Kansas City did what they needed to do.
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They took care of business.
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And I felt like this was yet another statement win from the current this time on the road, which there were still some haters questioning the ability on the road.
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But Kansas City shut down any types of whispers of doubt there.
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Um and again, just collectively and cohesively performed.
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And that is what Armist needs as he is getting his crew ready to go into the playoffs.
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So now they get to come back home.
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Um, and that's a whole nother exciting opportunity.
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But yeah, this was a really big match.
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And again, to see Hopkins doing what she does, Shawinga, the return of Bethune, so many good things came out of this weekend.
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I was just gonna say Haley Hopkins with another great performance.
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Her career just keeps on going, ends up being the game-winning goal.
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Tamwa Shiwinga, the last time she traveled internationally, there was a delay getting back.
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She got sick when she got back.
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It took her a few games to get back in the groove.
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She looked like her normal self right away in this game.
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And the defense didn't give up much.
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I mean, it was really just a solid performance overall.
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Yeah, and I'm glad you brought up the defense because shutouts are huge.
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They are confidence builders, and this was a commanding win.
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This shutout was huge for the back line.
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Great to see Gabrielle Robinson just slide right back into that center back position and really show up.
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Like she came up so many times.
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She plays with such a joy, but when she needs to like come in and put a proper tackle in, she does it.
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And we saw it multiple times in the match at Utah.
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So really proud of the back four.
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Again, Lorena with a shutout huge.
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But this match, I mean, I can't the my biggest takeaway is that the year of Haley Hopkins continues.
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The third multi-goal performance that we've seen from her, just to get it right, her 10th goal, her 11th goal in this match, six goals in three matches, this player is on fire.
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And yes, it is because of the player she has around her.
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DiBernardo getting her 33rd career assist with a beautiful corner.
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Tamwa Shiwinga putting it on a platter so she could just tap it in.
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Shewinga picking up her 13th career assist, uh golden boot winner MVP and an assist, second all-time club assist leader.
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Unbelievable.
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But again, Haley Hopkins is putting herself in the positions to put the ball in the back of the net.
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It's been so exciting to watch her evolve this year.
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And I don't think she's done.
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Another big storyline is Croy Bethune returns.
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We saw her part of the second half.
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Did she look like she had not missed a beat?
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Is there some rust to knock off?
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What did you think of her return performance?
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You know, as she entered the match, everyone's excited, right?
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So pumped to see this player back in in good form in in just getting minutes.
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But her first touch, if you remember it, it was a high bouncing ball, top of the 18-ish.
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And she has a chance to go to goal.
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And you I almost like felt that I could see her eyes just get big and she went for it.
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And man, did she hit that wrong?
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Like she just undercut the ball.
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And I think she needed it.
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I think she needed to go in and bring the confidence and then just knock the rust off, like you were saying.
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Like I think she needed one opportunity to just kind of like, okay, I'm back.
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Right.
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And then she reset.
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And then we got to see her and her creativity back on the pitch.
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And that is what this midfield loves.
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And having her back in, being able to dish off passes, break lines, slot players through.
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Um, you know, Armist calls her the smooth operator for a reason.
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And it's because she finds channels to pass through just little tiny spaces to just send a ball in, and next thing you know, Temwa's gone.
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But um it's great to have her back.
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And again, the confidence that she came back in with is huge.
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And at this timing, I don't I think this team has everything they need to go very far into these playoffs.
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It's something we talked about a lot last year is who's going to be in the starting lineup because now you're talking about probably 13 players worthy of starting, maybe more, and you only have 11 spots.
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So maybe it's still another game or two before Croy's 90 minutes fit.
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Yeah.
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But once the playoffs get here, it is really interesting because how do you sit down Haley Hopkins, who's playing so well, but then how do you sit down Debinha, who just had a hat trick, Croy Bethune, who's near the top of the league in assist, Cooper, Shawinga.
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I mean, it's gonna be interesting what this lineup looks like down the home stretch, but especially in the playoffs.
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Trevor Burrus, Jr.
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Yeah, and you bring up such a good point, like coming back from any type of injury, no matter who you are, you're not gonna be 90 minutes fit.
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So that will be it's it was really wonderful that she got minutes against Utah because I think she will be critical against Washington uh this weekend.
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But not only Bethune, not only the whole list that you just mentioned.
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Going into the playoffs, you can't rely on 11 players.
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And if anybody learned that, it was Kansas City of 2025.
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And so going forward, they need to have a roster, I would say 15 to 17-ish players that have had minutes in big moments, have gotten their reps, and that's what this roster reflects.
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The depth is going to be invaluable moving into the playoffs.
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And I think to your point, I think we're both glad that we don't have to pick the starting 11 because it's getting very difficult to do so.
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Current cutoff to kind of a rocky start to the season.
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They got red hot before the summer break for the men's World Cup.
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They came out and it was kind of up and down, but now they've won three straight.
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Is this the best form they've been in all year?
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I think so.
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I do.
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I think this momentum, I think this is the healthiest.
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The healthiest that the squad has been.
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And uh it's really great to see it all coming together at this time of this season because sure, it would have been nice to have this all season long.
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But think about the lessons this team has learned.
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Think about what they've been through.
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The challenges all presented, they all made them better.
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And the resiliency that this team has shown has been incredible.
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And so now that everyone's healthy, everyone's back in form, kind of all ducks in a row in a row as you as they proceed to playoffs.
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What a better time for Armistus crew to be coming together.
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And now another huge matchup, just two games left at this weekend.
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Third place Washington comes in, and we'll preview that coming up later in the show.
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And now to go around the league and understand a little bit of the landscape of NWSL, we have one of the most recognizable faces.
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It is ESPN Broadcaster, former international with England.
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50 caps for England.
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Of course, it's Leanne Sanderson.
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Leanne, we're so happy to have you.
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Thanks so much for joining us today.
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Oh, thanks for having me.
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I was honored.
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I know um Jen Hildriff and I were talking about this last night.
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She was telling me that she came on with you guys, and I was like, oh my God, I'm going with them tomorrow.
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So I was like super excited even more.
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And you know, I have a soft spot for Kansas City.
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So um I was delighted.
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Thanks for having me.
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Well, we certainly appreciate it and loved chatting with Jen as well, but really excited to get your perspective on this year, NWSL soccer, it's almost like vintage NWSL, right?
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It is super competitive.
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We're looking at the standings and it is so tight, the top eight.
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Really the top 10 is what we're kind of looking at.
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So to kind of get things started, give us your take on this year, the standings, the playoff picture.
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Obviously, the top eight make it, but we're really looking at the last 10 um teams that are left.
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What are your thoughts going into playoffs?
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Well, this is a time we love as announcers and media and as neutrals because this is when it gets spicy.
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I think the top four, as it is right now, I mean, San Diego wave this past weekend secured that home playoff.
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There's something to be said about the making the last four of the last five playoffs and its consistency.
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And the Kansas City Current, funnily enough, my prediction at the beginning of the season, I said they would win the Shield and the Championship.
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I genuinely think right now, the Shield doesn't look like it's going to happen.
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But the point is with the Kansas City current missing out the last two years, I don't know.
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I have this feeling that when you guys have everyone back fit and healthy, everybody's cooking.
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It looks like you're in a really good run of form right now.
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But the teams that I can't fathom might not make the playoffs of the North Carolina courage.
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Because you're looking at a player in Asty Sanchez, 20 goals.
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I was hoping she was going to break the record when we were on the game the other night against uh San Diego, but it'll be hopefully for her against Portland, was unselfish in that game, got an assist, did a fantastic little ball, which in that moment she's probably thinking, I'm gonna break the record here, but was so unselfish.
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But like they're the high-scoring team in the league.
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And if they don't make the playoffs, that'll be massive.
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And I think Denver losing that game at the weekend against Angel City after being 2-0 up, like I always say, guys, like there's eight teams that make the playoffs.
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If you don't make them, you don't deserve to be there.
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As harsh as that sounds, that's a reality.
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And I think when teams are not making it, it's not because of this last two games or the last three games.
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It's like the consistency of the season.
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And I think the numbers in the league don't lie.
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You know, you've seen Gotham, Washington, San Diego Wave have been in that for most of the season, and you guys have now creeped in there.
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So I mean, it's really still a little bit unpredictable.
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Seattle Rain, I think, have got an easier run.
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I think we've had an easier run the last three games.
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The Couries have got a really difficult run.
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And I think Denver Summit have been really good in this first season, obviously, expansion team.
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I know Nick Cushing personally, and he's an actual born winner.
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So if they do miss out, it'd be devastated.
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But yeah, I think it's been a highly competitive season, and you know, it's still hard to predict who's actually going to win the championship.
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And like you said, it's going to be interesting because it would be kind of shocking if North Carolina doesn't make it.
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I think, especially with their goal differential, they're plus 10.
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They're quite a bit ahead of eighth place Seattle, seventh place Portland, sixth place Utah.
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So if they get knocked out, it would be pretty surprising.
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And for them, it could come down to that last game of the regular season against Denver, who's the team right behind them.
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So that's a fascinating matchup.
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I wanted to look real quick with you at the top of the table because we'd like to say Kansas City is the hottest team in the league, and they're one of the hottest teams, but they're not the hottest.
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That goes to San Diego.
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Five straight wins.
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If we went back a month, we would have said, oh, San Diego's a good team, but you know, they're not going to win the shield.
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It's going to be Gotham.
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Now they're one point behind Gotham for the Shield.
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Um are they a legitimate threat to win the championship at this point, given how well they've been playing?
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I think so.
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And I think, you know, what you're looking at is a team that's won the shield, but they've never won a championship.
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And I think Jonas Eidervel, since he's come in there, I mean, I think Casey Stoney did a fantastic job.
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And the timing of when they let her go was very suspect to me.
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They had a lot of adversity off the field of play.
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Now I think Jonas has brought that stability.
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I knew him from when he was at Arsenal.
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I think he's become more adaptable within the NWSL as well.
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And I think we see that a lot with the European coaches that come over, whether that be Robert Villaham, whether it be Alex Strauss, who's no longer in the league.
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But like a lot of European coaches, it takes them a little while to adjust.
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And what I love about this San Diego wave team, every coach in the league has so much respect for them.
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The way they play, they're like they play beautiful football.
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And players like Barsenas this year, I mean, she's the high-scoring teenager ever in NWSL.
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And she's come on leaps and bounds, her defensive responsibilities and attack.
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Kenza Dali, I mean, I'm sure you guys saw the bunny hop the other day.
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But like being on a game, seeing that, I love that type of stuff, that type of Maverick type of player.
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Gia Cawley's in a great runner form right now, playing on the left-hand side, right?
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And it's interesting because Matt Lynn made that adjustment with Ashley Sanchez coming off the left and look how many goals she's got.
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Gia Cauley then got three goals in four games, moving positions onto the left.
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So maybe we'll start to see coaches think, huh, Ashley Sanchez has moved to that position.
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Let's try and do something different here.
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So yeah, I just think it's been San Diego has been brilliant.
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Jonas has had a really good season, but they want to win a championship.
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And Gotham, Jordan Dudley being now out with that season-ending injury, I feel for her.
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There's a lot of injuries right now.
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Uh, Maddy Darlene as well with Seattle.
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So it thought to go out to those teams.
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But we've seen crazy trades, guys, as well.
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Like I was in England for two weeks.
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I'm like, what's going on?
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Gift Monday, Kundanji, Ella Haas.
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Like, you cannot take your eyes off this league.
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Like, and those trades caught me off guard, a little bit like the Croix Bethune one this season.
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Yeah, it's an exciting time for so many different reasons, right?
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Well, you mentioned you were just back in England.
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You are just all over women's soccer coverage, and we're so excited.
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Uh, you are also gonna be involved in the Ballon d'Or Awards ceremony coming up pretty quick here.
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Talk to us a little bit about what you're doing there, and we have to get your reaction with, of course, Tim Washiwinga and Lorena being nominated this year.
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Yeah, so I'm gonna be hosting, co-hosting the red carpet next Monday.
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I actually land on Monday from doing the game of your team, Kansas C versus Washington.
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I land on Monday and go straight to the hotel, get ready.
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And I'm just really excited.
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Like I was talking to my mum and dad earlier, and I get to do these amazing things.
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I'm sure you guys feel this way.
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Every time I do a game, I feel really blessed and grateful.
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But like the fact that I'm going to be able to speak to like Alexia, Duke Bellingham, Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, like I'm so excited.
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And anyone that knows me knows how much I love football.
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So to get this opportunity, I feel extremely grateful.
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And to answer your question about Temwa and Lorena, like I love Temwa.
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I love Lorena, but I have a soft spot for Temwa.
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And I actually have a jersey that they gave me last year that I need to get signed by her because I don't actually like getting stuff signed by players and stuff.
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But she's just, I love everything about her, so humble.
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And yeah, so I think players like Temwa Shawinga and Barbara Banda and players in the NWSL, I don't think they get the love at the Ballon d'Or that they deserve based upon the league not running in correlation to that award.
00:14:16.399 --> 00:14:20.240
You know, it misses half the season with the way that they do the voting.
00:14:20.399 --> 00:14:23.679
So people don't really see the league as much as they do in Europe.
00:14:23.759 --> 00:14:34.960
So I think that's why it's very European heavy, but that's why it's down to people like me to talk about people like Temwa, Lorena, Barbara Banda, and players like Trinity Robin not being there.
00:14:35.360 --> 00:14:36.559
Just blows my mind.
00:14:36.639 --> 00:14:38.000
So I'm excited.
00:14:38.159 --> 00:14:41.840
Um, it's gonna be a fantastic night, great occasion, and I can't wait.
00:14:42.159 --> 00:14:48.799
You just made a comment that I was dying to make, and it seems like the NWSL players maybe don't get the attention they deserve for this award.
00:14:48.879 --> 00:14:57.120
They're obviously nominated, but you look at Temwa Shuwinga, back-to-back league MVP's back-to-back golden boot, and she was nowhere nearer winning this award last year.
00:14:57.279 --> 00:15:00.799
Um, so I'd love to get your take as we kind of wrap up that part of the conversation.
00:15:00.960 --> 00:15:04.879
Who do you think is the front runner to be the female award winner this year?
00:15:05.120 --> 00:15:07.519
Yeah, I mean, I think you can't look past Alexia.
00:15:07.759 --> 00:15:10.000
I think that's everybody's um tip.
00:15:10.240 --> 00:15:15.519
I mean, she came in last season back from her injury the season before, and Itana Bombati.
00:15:15.679 --> 00:15:19.919
I mean, her and Alexia flip-flop, who's been in the Ballon d'Or, that's how good they are.
00:15:20.159 --> 00:15:23.440
Bunny Shaw, for me, will be closely in second.
00:15:23.519 --> 00:15:24.960
That's what I would do personally.
00:15:25.120 --> 00:15:29.600
I mean, another player that doesn't really get the credit she deserves and bangs goals in.
00:15:29.679 --> 00:15:32.720
I mean, she scored another two at the weekend and makes it effortless.
00:15:32.799 --> 00:15:37.840
And similar to players like Temwa Shawinga, like Temoir, I can't speak highly enough of her.
00:15:38.000 --> 00:15:39.360
I think she's so amazing.
00:15:39.440 --> 00:15:44.399
I know you guys feel that way too, but like she's just an incredible person, incredible player.
00:15:44.559 --> 00:15:53.120
And like I said, people that know football will know, but sometimes when these votes come out, like not everybody's watching every single game in its entirety and seeing what we see.
00:15:53.440 --> 00:15:53.759
Yeah.
00:15:54.000 --> 00:15:55.679
Well, we will sure be looking for you.
00:15:55.759 --> 00:15:58.960
I know you'll have a fire fit on the red carpet, of course, as always.
00:15:59.120 --> 00:16:04.320
But before we let you go, you are on the call this weekend, Kansas City hosting Washington Spirit.
00:16:04.480 --> 00:16:05.279
What do you think?
00:16:05.440 --> 00:16:09.279
We have high hopes for this being just an absolute amazing match.
00:16:09.440 --> 00:16:10.159
What are you thinking?
00:16:10.240 --> 00:16:12.000
Do you have any score predictions?
00:16:12.320 --> 00:16:14.240
Well, I'm looking forward to it first and foremost.
00:16:14.320 --> 00:16:21.600
I mean, Washington Spirit getting that win against Gotham is massive because Rowdy Alley's been rowdy this year, but their home form hasn't been the best.
00:16:21.759 --> 00:16:26.879
I think it's Kansas City currently coming off the back of those two incredible wins, you know, 5-1 against Bay.
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:36.960
Then beating Utah, we've got to give some love to Utah as well before I go, because although they seem to be falling off the wagon a little bit towards the end of the season, Jimmy Kunratz has done incredible work with that roster.
00:16:37.279 --> 00:16:39.120
So, but yeah, I think I'm gonna go.
00:16:39.200 --> 00:16:42.879
I don't want to be, you know, I never sit on the fence, but I think there's gonna be a lot of goals in this game.
00:16:43.039 --> 00:16:45.360
And I'm going to go 2-2.
00:16:45.840 --> 00:16:46.879
Ooh, okay.
00:16:47.360 --> 00:16:48.240
It'll be quite a game.
00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:49.759
Yeah, we're here for it.
00:16:49.840 --> 00:16:50.480
We're here for it.
00:16:50.639 --> 00:16:52.000
Well, we certainly appreciate the time.
00:16:52.159 --> 00:16:53.200
Best of luck on the call.
00:16:53.360 --> 00:16:54.240
Safe travels.
00:16:54.320 --> 00:16:58.799
If you can do anything to get us some extra votes for Timoff or Baland Dior, we would love you for that.
00:16:58.879 --> 00:17:00.480
But Leanne Sanderson, appreciate the time.
00:17:00.559 --> 00:17:01.279
Thanks for joining us.
00:17:01.519 --> 00:17:02.159
Thanks, guys.
00:17:02.240 --> 00:17:03.200
Thanks for having me.
00:17:03.519 --> 00:17:04.559
All right, good stuff there.
00:17:04.720 --> 00:17:05.599
Good to hear from Leanne.
00:17:05.839 --> 00:17:07.920
And now it's time for the big game preview.
00:17:08.079 --> 00:17:09.359
Only one of two games left.
00:17:09.440 --> 00:17:11.759
The last home game of the regular season for the current.
00:17:12.000 --> 00:17:16.720
They're in a position to have a home playoff game, at least one, so they need to keep this momentum going.
00:17:16.880 --> 00:17:18.000
And it's not an easy one.
00:17:18.160 --> 00:17:23.839
Washington's coming in in third place, one spot ahead of the current, coming off a win against first place Gotham.
00:17:24.000 --> 00:17:26.319
Trinity Rodman, one of the stars of the league.
00:17:26.400 --> 00:17:28.880
They have momentum just like the current has momentum.
00:17:29.119 --> 00:17:32.799
This is uh a possible NWSL championship type preview.
00:17:33.119 --> 00:17:33.519
Oh, for sure.
00:17:33.599 --> 00:17:37.519
And it is a clash of momentum because look at what these teams have done lately.
00:17:37.839 --> 00:17:42.880
Washington spirit delaying Gotham, clinching the shield, that was a huge win.
00:17:43.039 --> 00:17:46.720
It was at home and they had that kind of home field advantage, if you will.
00:17:46.799 --> 00:17:49.759
However, they have not been very successful at home this year.
00:17:49.920 --> 00:17:53.599
So the fact that they were able to do that, I think was a massive win.
00:17:53.759 --> 00:17:58.319
So they're coming into Kansas City with this huge uh bout of momentum.
00:17:58.480 --> 00:18:02.400
And obviously, Kansas City is bringing home a huge victory, three three points.
00:18:02.480 --> 00:18:04.160
We just talked about how important it was on the road.
00:18:04.240 --> 00:18:05.200
They made a statement.
00:18:05.359 --> 00:18:10.559
This is gonna be a collision of energy, of momentum, of hopeful play, of brave play.
00:18:10.720 --> 00:18:19.759
Uh, I do think of all teams in the league, Washington is a team that is semi-used to playing in front of an environment similar to CPKC Stadium.
00:18:19.920 --> 00:18:22.480
Audi Field is known for being called rowdy Audi.
00:18:22.640 --> 00:18:24.000
Their environment is top-notch.
00:18:24.319 --> 00:18:26.480
CPKC is so special, though.
00:18:26.640 --> 00:18:30.240
We know what Kansas City does when they play in front of their home fans.
00:18:30.400 --> 00:18:32.559
So I am extremely excited for this matchup.
00:18:32.640 --> 00:18:36.559
And to your point, this is almost a playoff match already.
00:18:36.720 --> 00:18:42.960
This could almost be, again, knock on wood, an NWSL championship preview, not just playoff preview.
00:18:43.039 --> 00:18:49.119
These two teams are just really making their cases to why they deserve to be in that championship match.
00:18:49.440 --> 00:18:51.039
Everybody knows about Trinity Rodman.
00:18:51.200 --> 00:18:54.240
Who else should Casey Current fans be on the lookout for this weekend?
00:18:54.640 --> 00:19:04.480
You know, she is such an attention grabber and she just plays so big and does so many great things, but she's not only the only backpost target that Lacey Santos is looking for.
00:19:04.640 --> 00:19:06.559
Lacey Santos is where my eyes are.
00:19:06.640 --> 00:19:09.920
She's the Colombian midfielder who really likes to dictate traffic.
00:19:10.079 --> 00:19:12.079
She really likes to control everything.
00:19:12.160 --> 00:19:16.799
She's got her buddy Hal Hirschfeld behind her, who's the physical monster in the middle of the pitch.
00:19:16.960 --> 00:19:18.319
But Lacey is very creative.
00:19:18.400 --> 00:19:22.480
She's almost like a Croix Bethune, the way that she can create offense.
00:19:22.640 --> 00:19:29.839
So other attackers, Sophia Cantori, the Italian forward who's come to the league and made a big impact very, very quickly.
00:19:30.079 --> 00:19:33.920
Ashley Hatch, kind of a super sub, returning from maternity leave.
00:19:34.079 --> 00:19:34.960
Love to shout that out.
00:19:35.279 --> 00:19:40.240
Rosmond Kawassi from Ivory Coast, all players that are proven goal scorers.
00:19:40.400 --> 00:19:49.359
And then, of course, we do have Clara, Clara Lavanga from Tanzania, who has just recently came over to the NWSL, and she's gonna be dangerous.
00:19:49.519 --> 00:19:53.759
If Washington finds her feet, she's smooth on the ball in front of goals.
00:19:53.839 --> 00:19:56.880
She's done very well in a very short period of time in the league.
00:19:57.039 --> 00:19:58.880
So spirits stacked, man.
00:19:59.039 --> 00:20:07.359
Kansas City is gonna have um a big responsibility to just eliminate any offensive attacks, and that for me starts with limiting Lacey Santos in the midfield.
00:20:07.759 --> 00:20:13.279
During this three-game winning streak for Kansas City, they've outscored their opponents 11-2, and they're coming off a shutout.
00:20:13.359 --> 00:20:16.079
I don't expect this would be a 4-0 game or something like that.
00:20:16.240 --> 00:20:20.000
I think it should be a hard-fought game, but how does the current keep this momentum going?
00:20:20.160 --> 00:20:21.279
What are some of the keys to the game?
00:20:21.599 --> 00:20:25.680
Yeah, I think for me, and we how many times we say this, Dave, score first, score first.
00:20:26.000 --> 00:20:26.880
They did it last weekend.
00:20:27.119 --> 00:20:32.079
And then I was gonna say, and then at home the team goes out, doesn't score first, but they claw their way back in.
00:20:32.160 --> 00:20:33.519
But again, in Utah they did.
00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:34.799
And it was Haley Hopkins.
00:20:34.880 --> 00:20:37.039
I think she scored the first one that was called back even.
00:20:37.279 --> 00:20:40.000
So she scored first, it was called back, then she scored again and again.
00:20:40.079 --> 00:20:45.759
Um but if Kansas City can come out on the front foot, this is gonna be a very high-energy emotional match.
00:20:45.920 --> 00:20:52.079
So which team can keep their heads about them, play with composure, play with efficiency, and execute early.
00:20:52.240 --> 00:20:55.599
Really, for me, those are those that team is gonna be able to control this match.
00:20:55.680 --> 00:20:55.839
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:20:56.000 --> 00:21:01.839
You talked about the advantage of CPKC Stadium, even though Audi Field is rowdy and Washington's used to it.
00:21:02.000 --> 00:21:04.160
Washington has not come in here and had success, right?
00:21:04.240 --> 00:21:08.400
It's been more than two full seasons since the currents lost at home in the regular season.
00:21:08.559 --> 00:21:16.559
So I look at this as a matchup of two hot teams, two pretty even teams, but I would have to lean a little bit towards Kansas City just because of the form and the home field.
00:21:16.960 --> 00:21:17.839
I do, I agree with you.
00:21:17.920 --> 00:21:25.279
And I don't know if we've chatted it out just yet, but I mean Dabino with a hat trick, Haley Hopkins with a hat trick, Haley Hopkins with a brace, Tim Washawinga back in form.
00:21:25.359 --> 00:21:28.799
Tim Washawinga looking as healthy and as fit as we've seen her this year.
00:21:29.119 --> 00:21:34.400
Look at all this goal production that's happening, and then drop in Croy Bethuna's back to start some things.
00:21:34.480 --> 00:21:38.880
And then, of course, Vanessa Di Bernardo is finding herself every match.
00:21:38.960 --> 00:21:42.720
She looks more and more like the Vanessa Di Bernardo that we know and love.
00:21:42.799 --> 00:21:45.599
Uh, and so there's just so much offensive production.
00:21:45.680 --> 00:21:50.720
And we always talk about it the best defense is offense, and the best way to score goals is with offense.
00:21:50.799 --> 00:21:57.359
And so for me, the the sheer amount of goal production that Kansas City has been producing over these past three matches is massive.
00:21:57.599 --> 00:22:00.000
So I'm gonna go with the advantage in Kansas City's favor.
00:22:00.480 --> 00:22:02.880
Big playoff implications for this one as well.
00:22:03.039 --> 00:22:14.799
Regardless of any other results, a Kansas City win would clinch a playoff spot, and there's a chance to clinch a top four spot if the teams right behind the current end up knocking off each other, which is in is interesting.
00:22:14.880 --> 00:22:15.839
We talked about it.
00:22:15.920 --> 00:22:23.920
Um there's a lot of matchups of teams that are right behind the current, so hopefully they'll they'll do some damage to each other and help Kansas City's chances of hosting a home playoff game.
00:22:24.160 --> 00:22:24.880
What's your prediction?
00:22:25.200 --> 00:22:26.240
Okay, this is really tough.
00:22:26.319 --> 00:22:27.359
I th this is crazy.
00:22:27.519 --> 00:22:31.680
I think it's either gonna be like 3-3 or like maybe 1-0.
00:22:32.079 --> 00:22:35.839
I know that's a little wild, but I I think I'm gonna lean toward the more goals.
00:22:35.920 --> 00:22:39.279
I think both teams have proven goal scorers.
00:22:39.519 --> 00:22:42.240
They have uh this momentum we've talked a little bit about.
00:22:42.400 --> 00:22:47.119
Um but I'm gonna go I'm gonna go three-one Kansas City.
00:22:47.440 --> 00:22:48.720
Well, you just gave three scenarios.
00:22:49.119 --> 00:22:50.160
You went with a totally different one.
00:22:50.240 --> 00:22:50.480
I like it.
00:22:50.960 --> 00:22:51.920
In my head, I'm like, oh God.
00:22:52.160 --> 00:22:53.359
I'm gonna go two to one Kansas City.
00:22:53.519 --> 00:22:55.759
Although I could see them getting a late goal to make it three to one.
00:22:55.839 --> 00:22:59.359
I think it'll be a really tight game, and maybe Kansas City pulls away at the end.
00:22:59.519 --> 00:23:05.039
We have to mention as we wrap up, it's gonna be the biggest home game in the history of the Kansas City Current.
00:23:05.200 --> 00:23:17.279
One current this Sunday, not just 11,500 fans plus in the stadium with extra extra standing room only, but hopefully up to 18,000 fans, including the crowd at Current Landing.
00:23:17.440 --> 00:23:21.759
You can get in on the action with grounds pass tickets for just ten dollars.
00:23:21.920 --> 00:23:23.920
Visit KansasCityCurrent.com.
00:23:24.079 --> 00:23:32.400
Lots of giveaways, including giveaways for fans just in the stadium, the bobblehead, fans inside and outside the stadium, the exclusive KC Current flag.
00:23:32.720 --> 00:23:36.319
And my understanding is there's zero tickets left for inside the stadium.
00:23:36.480 --> 00:23:40.799
So now the only chance is to get grounds passes and you can still be a part of the atmosphere.
00:23:40.960 --> 00:23:42.160
It's gonna be a blast on Sunday.
00:23:42.400 --> 00:23:47.119
Yeah, it's gonna be special here in Kansas City, and I'm telling you, you don't want to miss this Dabina bobblehead.
00:23:47.279 --> 00:23:53.759
If you can't get your hands on it, at least you want to see one, come out and hang out with us right here at CPKC Stadium.
00:23:53.839 --> 00:23:56.480
And come early, because we're gonna do a new pregame show.
00:23:56.640 --> 00:23:59.200
So if you can swing by our studios, we'd love to say hello.
00:23:59.599 --> 00:24:01.119
Yeah, it's gonna be an awesome weekend.
00:24:01.200 --> 00:24:02.880
Hopefully the current can keep rolling.
00:24:03.200 --> 00:24:04.160
That'll do it for us.
00:24:04.319 --> 00:24:05.279
Big game this weekend.
00:24:05.359 --> 00:24:06.480
We'll recap it next week.
00:24:06.640 --> 00:24:08.079
Kansas City and Washington.
00:24:08.160 --> 00:24:09.200
Thanks so much for tuning in.
00:24:09.279 --> 00:24:11.200
You've been watching the current situation.
00:00:00.160 --> 00:00:01.439
Hello, Casey Current fans.
00:00:01.520 --> 00:00:03.200
Welcome once again to the current situation.
00:00:03.359 --> 00:00:06.000
I'm Dave Bortrich alongside Jillian Carol Latrinko.
00:00:06.080 --> 00:00:11.359
And Gillian, we have right now, or Casey Current, one of the hottest teams in the NWSL.
00:00:11.519 --> 00:00:14.160
And I think they had to get a road win to really solidify that.
00:00:14.320 --> 00:00:19.120
We knew they were playing great with back-to-back dominant home wins, but we talked about this last week.
00:00:19.280 --> 00:00:26.239
It was a real playoff preview type of game, going to altitude, going against a Utah team that was ahead of them in the standings.
00:00:26.320 --> 00:00:30.559
And the final score is 2-0, but really it could have been three or four-nothing for Kansas City.
00:00:30.879 --> 00:00:32.399
Yeah, there were some really good opportunities.
00:00:32.479 --> 00:00:36.719
I think two goals called back from VAR, but I agree with you.
00:00:36.880 --> 00:00:39.359
The team went on the road and made a statement with this win.
00:00:39.520 --> 00:00:45.600
Obviously, coming off of international break, you just don't know how teams are gonna come back, how players are gonna travel well.
00:00:45.759 --> 00:00:48.880
We've had players coming from all over the world back to Kansas City.
00:00:49.039 --> 00:00:57.039
And then a short quick turn to go over to Utah and again play in elevation altitude is a big difference, a big difference maker, a big impact.
00:00:57.119 --> 00:00:59.119
Uh, but they really showed up.
00:00:59.280 --> 00:01:01.039
Kansas City did what they needed to do.
00:01:01.119 --> 00:01:02.399
They took care of business.
00:01:02.560 --> 00:01:13.840
And I felt like this was yet another statement win from the current this time on the road, which there were still some haters questioning the ability on the road.
00:01:13.920 --> 00:01:17.760
But Kansas City shut down any types of whispers of doubt there.
00:01:17.920 --> 00:01:21.120
Um and again, just collectively and cohesively performed.
00:01:21.200 --> 00:01:25.760
And that is what Armist needs as he is getting his crew ready to go into the playoffs.
00:01:25.840 --> 00:01:27.359
So now they get to come back home.
00:01:27.439 --> 00:01:30.560
Um, and that's a whole nother exciting opportunity.
00:01:30.719 --> 00:01:32.159
But yeah, this was a really big match.
00:01:32.239 --> 00:01:37.840
And again, to see Hopkins doing what she does, Shawinga, the return of Bethune, so many good things came out of this weekend.
00:01:38.159 --> 00:01:40.719
I was just gonna say Haley Hopkins with another great performance.
00:01:40.959 --> 00:01:43.840
Her career just keeps on going, ends up being the game-winning goal.
00:01:44.159 --> 00:01:48.159
Tamwa Shiwinga, the last time she traveled internationally, there was a delay getting back.
00:01:48.319 --> 00:01:49.680
She got sick when she got back.
00:01:49.840 --> 00:01:51.760
It took her a few games to get back in the groove.
00:01:51.840 --> 00:01:54.159
She looked like her normal self right away in this game.
00:01:54.319 --> 00:01:55.840
And the defense didn't give up much.
00:01:56.079 --> 00:01:58.480
I mean, it was really just a solid performance overall.
00:01:58.879 --> 00:02:01.760
Yeah, and I'm glad you brought up the defense because shutouts are huge.
00:02:01.920 --> 00:02:05.840
They are confidence builders, and this was a commanding win.
00:02:05.920 --> 00:02:07.760
This shutout was huge for the back line.
00:02:08.000 --> 00:02:13.280
Great to see Gabrielle Robinson just slide right back into that center back position and really show up.
00:02:13.439 --> 00:02:15.439
Like she came up so many times.
00:02:15.599 --> 00:02:20.800
She plays with such a joy, but when she needs to like come in and put a proper tackle in, she does it.
00:02:20.879 --> 00:02:24.319
And we saw it multiple times in the match at Utah.
00:02:24.400 --> 00:02:25.680
So really proud of the back four.
00:02:25.759 --> 00:02:27.840
Again, Lorena with a shutout huge.
00:02:28.080 --> 00:02:34.000
But this match, I mean, I can't the my biggest takeaway is that the year of Haley Hopkins continues.
00:02:34.240 --> 00:02:44.319
The third multi-goal performance that we've seen from her, just to get it right, her 10th goal, her 11th goal in this match, six goals in three matches, this player is on fire.
00:02:44.479 --> 00:02:47.439
And yes, it is because of the player she has around her.
00:02:47.759 --> 00:02:52.800
DiBernardo getting her 33rd career assist with a beautiful corner.
00:02:52.960 --> 00:02:55.840
Tamwa Shiwinga putting it on a platter so she could just tap it in.
00:02:55.919 --> 00:03:05.680
Shewinga picking up her 13th career assist, uh golden boot winner MVP and an assist, second all-time club assist leader.
00:03:05.840 --> 00:03:06.400
Unbelievable.
00:03:06.479 --> 00:03:10.960
But again, Haley Hopkins is putting herself in the positions to put the ball in the back of the net.
00:03:11.120 --> 00:03:14.159
It's been so exciting to watch her evolve this year.
00:03:14.240 --> 00:03:15.280
And I don't think she's done.
00:03:15.680 --> 00:03:18.000
Another big storyline is Croy Bethune returns.
00:03:18.080 --> 00:03:19.919
We saw her part of the second half.
00:03:20.960 --> 00:03:23.199
Did she look like she had not missed a beat?
00:03:23.280 --> 00:03:24.479
Is there some rust to knock off?
00:03:24.560 --> 00:03:26.080
What did you think of her return performance?
00:03:26.400 --> 00:03:29.680
You know, as she entered the match, everyone's excited, right?
00:03:29.840 --> 00:03:34.639
So pumped to see this player back in in good form in in just getting minutes.
00:03:34.719 --> 00:03:39.919
But her first touch, if you remember it, it was a high bouncing ball, top of the 18-ish.
00:03:40.479 --> 00:03:42.159
And she has a chance to go to goal.
00:03:42.240 --> 00:03:46.000
And you I almost like felt that I could see her eyes just get big and she went for it.
00:03:46.080 --> 00:03:47.439
And man, did she hit that wrong?
00:03:47.599 --> 00:03:49.360
Like she just undercut the ball.
00:03:49.520 --> 00:03:50.639
And I think she needed it.
00:03:50.800 --> 00:03:55.919
I think she needed to go in and bring the confidence and then just knock the rust off, like you were saying.
00:03:56.000 --> 00:03:59.520
Like I think she needed one opportunity to just kind of like, okay, I'm back.
00:03:59.599 --> 00:03:59.840
Right.
00:03:59.919 --> 00:04:00.719
And then she reset.
00:04:00.800 --> 00:04:03.280
And then we got to see her and her creativity back on the pitch.
00:04:03.439 --> 00:04:05.520
And that is what this midfield loves.
00:04:05.599 --> 00:04:11.360
And having her back in, being able to dish off passes, break lines, slot players through.
00:04:11.599 --> 00:04:15.199
Um, you know, Armist calls her the smooth operator for a reason.
00:04:15.280 --> 00:04:23.519
And it's because she finds channels to pass through just little tiny spaces to just send a ball in, and next thing you know, Temwa's gone.
00:04:23.759 --> 00:04:25.519
But um it's great to have her back.
00:04:25.600 --> 00:04:29.680
And again, the confidence that she came back in with is huge.
00:04:29.839 --> 00:04:35.519
And at this timing, I don't I think this team has everything they need to go very far into these playoffs.
00:04:35.920 --> 00:04:46.639
It's something we talked about a lot last year is who's going to be in the starting lineup because now you're talking about probably 13 players worthy of starting, maybe more, and you only have 11 spots.
00:04:46.800 --> 00:04:50.319
So maybe it's still another game or two before Croy's 90 minutes fit.
00:04:50.480 --> 00:04:50.560
Yeah.
00:04:50.879 --> 00:05:03.439
But once the playoffs get here, it is really interesting because how do you sit down Haley Hopkins, who's playing so well, but then how do you sit down Debinha, who just had a hat trick, Croy Bethune, who's near the top of the league in assist, Cooper, Shawinga.
00:05:03.680 --> 00:05:09.279
I mean, it's gonna be interesting what this lineup looks like down the home stretch, but especially in the playoffs.
00:05:09.439 --> 00:05:09.600
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:05:09.680 --> 00:05:15.439
Yeah, and you bring up such a good point, like coming back from any type of injury, no matter who you are, you're not gonna be 90 minutes fit.
00:05:15.519 --> 00:05:23.600
So that will be it's it was really wonderful that she got minutes against Utah because I think she will be critical against Washington uh this weekend.
00:05:23.839 --> 00:05:27.040
But not only Bethune, not only the whole list that you just mentioned.
00:05:27.360 --> 00:05:30.079
Going into the playoffs, you can't rely on 11 players.
00:05:30.160 --> 00:05:33.360
And if anybody learned that, it was Kansas City of 2025.
00:05:33.600 --> 00:05:48.399
And so going forward, they need to have a roster, I would say 15 to 17-ish players that have had minutes in big moments, have gotten their reps, and that's what this roster reflects.
00:05:48.560 --> 00:05:51.519
The depth is going to be invaluable moving into the playoffs.
00:05:51.600 --> 00:05:57.680
And I think to your point, I think we're both glad that we don't have to pick the starting 11 because it's getting very difficult to do so.
00:05:58.240 --> 00:06:00.639
Current cutoff to kind of a rocky start to the season.
00:06:00.800 --> 00:06:03.839
They got red hot before the summer break for the men's World Cup.
00:06:04.160 --> 00:06:07.199
They came out and it was kind of up and down, but now they've won three straight.
00:06:07.519 --> 00:06:09.519
Is this the best form they've been in all year?
00:06:09.839 --> 00:06:10.319
I think so.
00:06:10.480 --> 00:06:10.800
I do.
00:06:10.959 --> 00:06:13.519
I think this momentum, I think this is the healthiest.
00:06:15.040 --> 00:06:17.600
The healthiest that the squad has been.
00:06:18.000 --> 00:06:26.879
And uh it's really great to see it all coming together at this time of this season because sure, it would have been nice to have this all season long.
00:06:27.040 --> 00:06:29.360
But think about the lessons this team has learned.
00:06:29.519 --> 00:06:31.120
Think about what they've been through.
00:06:31.279 --> 00:06:34.079
The challenges all presented, they all made them better.
00:06:34.240 --> 00:06:38.160
And the resiliency that this team has shown has been incredible.
00:06:38.319 --> 00:06:46.160
And so now that everyone's healthy, everyone's back in form, kind of all ducks in a row in a row as you as they proceed to playoffs.
00:06:46.319 --> 00:06:48.639
What a better time for Armistus crew to be coming together.
00:06:48.879 --> 00:06:52.000
And now another huge matchup, just two games left at this weekend.
00:06:52.160 --> 00:06:56.399
Third place Washington comes in, and we'll preview that coming up later in the show.
00:06:56.720 --> 00:07:03.519
And now to go around the league and understand a little bit of the landscape of NWSL, we have one of the most recognizable faces.
00:07:03.680 --> 00:07:08.079
It is ESPN Broadcaster, former international with England.
00:07:08.240 --> 00:07:09.920
50 caps for England.
00:07:10.000 --> 00:07:11.360
Of course, it's Leanne Sanderson.
00:07:11.519 --> 00:07:12.879
Leanne, we're so happy to have you.
00:07:12.959 --> 00:07:14.319
Thanks so much for joining us today.
00:07:14.639 --> 00:07:15.600
Oh, thanks for having me.
00:07:15.680 --> 00:07:16.160
I was honored.
00:07:16.240 --> 00:07:18.560
I know um Jen Hildriff and I were talking about this last night.
00:07:18.720 --> 00:07:22.959
She was telling me that she came on with you guys, and I was like, oh my God, I'm going with them tomorrow.
00:07:23.120 --> 00:07:25.120
So I was like super excited even more.
00:07:25.199 --> 00:07:27.680
And you know, I have a soft spot for Kansas City.
00:07:27.759 --> 00:07:28.879
So um I was delighted.
00:07:28.959 --> 00:07:29.680
Thanks for having me.
00:07:30.079 --> 00:07:40.079
Well, we certainly appreciate it and loved chatting with Jen as well, but really excited to get your perspective on this year, NWSL soccer, it's almost like vintage NWSL, right?
00:07:40.160 --> 00:07:41.439
It is super competitive.
00:07:41.600 --> 00:07:45.279
We're looking at the standings and it is so tight, the top eight.
00:07:45.519 --> 00:07:48.079
Really the top 10 is what we're kind of looking at.
00:07:48.240 --> 00:07:53.680
So to kind of get things started, give us your take on this year, the standings, the playoff picture.
00:07:53.839 --> 00:07:58.720
Obviously, the top eight make it, but we're really looking at the last 10 um teams that are left.
00:07:58.879 --> 00:08:00.800
What are your thoughts going into playoffs?
00:08:01.040 --> 00:08:06.879
Well, this is a time we love as announcers and media and as neutrals because this is when it gets spicy.
00:08:06.959 --> 00:08:12.639
I think the top four, as it is right now, I mean, San Diego wave this past weekend secured that home playoff.
00:08:12.720 --> 00:08:17.519
There's something to be said about the making the last four of the last five playoffs and its consistency.
00:08:17.680 --> 00:08:24.079
And the Kansas City Current, funnily enough, my prediction at the beginning of the season, I said they would win the Shield and the Championship.
00:08:24.319 --> 00:08:28.319
I genuinely think right now, the Shield doesn't look like it's going to happen.
00:08:28.560 --> 00:08:33.039
But the point is with the Kansas City current missing out the last two years, I don't know.
00:08:33.200 --> 00:08:37.519
I have this feeling that when you guys have everyone back fit and healthy, everybody's cooking.
00:08:37.600 --> 00:08:40.399
It looks like you're in a really good run of form right now.
00:08:40.559 --> 00:08:46.159
But the teams that I can't fathom might not make the playoffs of the North Carolina courage.
00:08:46.240 --> 00:08:49.200
Because you're looking at a player in Asty Sanchez, 20 goals.
00:08:49.440 --> 00:09:03.200
I was hoping she was going to break the record when we were on the game the other night against uh San Diego, but it'll be hopefully for her against Portland, was unselfish in that game, got an assist, did a fantastic little ball, which in that moment she's probably thinking, I'm gonna break the record here, but was so unselfish.
00:09:03.279 --> 00:09:05.840
But like they're the high-scoring team in the league.
00:09:05.919 --> 00:09:08.799
And if they don't make the playoffs, that'll be massive.
00:09:08.879 --> 00:09:18.000
And I think Denver losing that game at the weekend against Angel City after being 2-0 up, like I always say, guys, like there's eight teams that make the playoffs.
00:09:18.240 --> 00:09:20.240
If you don't make them, you don't deserve to be there.
00:09:20.480 --> 00:09:22.240
As harsh as that sounds, that's a reality.
00:09:22.320 --> 00:09:27.679
And I think when teams are not making it, it's not because of this last two games or the last three games.
00:09:27.759 --> 00:09:29.759
It's like the consistency of the season.
00:09:29.840 --> 00:09:31.919
And I think the numbers in the league don't lie.
00:09:32.240 --> 00:09:40.240
You know, you've seen Gotham, Washington, San Diego Wave have been in that for most of the season, and you guys have now creeped in there.
00:09:40.399 --> 00:09:42.720
So I mean, it's really still a little bit unpredictable.
00:09:42.879 --> 00:09:44.960
Seattle Rain, I think, have got an easier run.
00:09:45.039 --> 00:09:47.120
I think we've had an easier run the last three games.
00:09:47.279 --> 00:09:49.360
The Couries have got a really difficult run.
00:09:49.440 --> 00:09:53.759
And I think Denver Summit have been really good in this first season, obviously, expansion team.
00:09:53.840 --> 00:09:57.120
I know Nick Cushing personally, and he's an actual born winner.
00:09:57.200 --> 00:09:59.039
So if they do miss out, it'd be devastated.
00:09:59.120 --> 00:10:05.679
But yeah, I think it's been a highly competitive season, and you know, it's still hard to predict who's actually going to win the championship.
00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:10.960
And like you said, it's going to be interesting because it would be kind of shocking if North Carolina doesn't make it.
00:10:11.039 --> 00:10:13.360
I think, especially with their goal differential, they're plus 10.
00:10:13.440 --> 00:10:17.519
They're quite a bit ahead of eighth place Seattle, seventh place Portland, sixth place Utah.
00:10:17.600 --> 00:10:20.399
So if they get knocked out, it would be pretty surprising.
00:10:20.480 --> 00:10:25.279
And for them, it could come down to that last game of the regular season against Denver, who's the team right behind them.
00:10:25.440 --> 00:10:26.879
So that's a fascinating matchup.
00:10:27.039 --> 00:10:36.080
I wanted to look real quick with you at the top of the table because we'd like to say Kansas City is the hottest team in the league, and they're one of the hottest teams, but they're not the hottest.
00:10:36.159 --> 00:10:37.200
That goes to San Diego.
00:10:37.360 --> 00:10:38.399
Five straight wins.
00:10:38.639 --> 00:10:43.039
If we went back a month, we would have said, oh, San Diego's a good team, but you know, they're not going to win the shield.
00:10:43.200 --> 00:10:44.159
It's going to be Gotham.
00:10:44.240 --> 00:10:46.559
Now they're one point behind Gotham for the Shield.
00:10:46.879 --> 00:10:52.320
Um are they a legitimate threat to win the championship at this point, given how well they've been playing?
00:10:52.720 --> 00:10:53.440
I think so.
00:10:53.600 --> 00:10:57.679
And I think, you know, what you're looking at is a team that's won the shield, but they've never won a championship.
00:10:57.759 --> 00:11:02.480
And I think Jonas Eidervel, since he's come in there, I mean, I think Casey Stoney did a fantastic job.
00:11:02.559 --> 00:11:05.360
And the timing of when they let her go was very suspect to me.
00:11:05.440 --> 00:11:07.600
They had a lot of adversity off the field of play.
00:11:07.679 --> 00:11:09.759
Now I think Jonas has brought that stability.
00:11:09.919 --> 00:11:11.360
I knew him from when he was at Arsenal.
00:11:11.440 --> 00:11:14.399
I think he's become more adaptable within the NWSL as well.
00:11:14.480 --> 00:11:21.120
And I think we see that a lot with the European coaches that come over, whether that be Robert Villaham, whether it be Alex Strauss, who's no longer in the league.
00:11:21.200 --> 00:11:24.559
But like a lot of European coaches, it takes them a little while to adjust.
00:11:24.720 --> 00:11:30.080
And what I love about this San Diego wave team, every coach in the league has so much respect for them.
00:11:30.240 --> 00:11:32.639
The way they play, they're like they play beautiful football.
00:11:32.799 --> 00:11:37.919
And players like Barsenas this year, I mean, she's the high-scoring teenager ever in NWSL.
00:11:38.000 --> 00:11:41.759
And she's come on leaps and bounds, her defensive responsibilities and attack.
00:11:41.919 --> 00:11:45.600
Kenza Dali, I mean, I'm sure you guys saw the bunny hop the other day.
00:11:45.759 --> 00:11:50.799
But like being on a game, seeing that, I love that type of stuff, that type of Maverick type of player.
00:11:51.039 --> 00:11:55.120
Gia Cawley's in a great runner form right now, playing on the left-hand side, right?
00:11:55.279 --> 00:12:00.960
And it's interesting because Matt Lynn made that adjustment with Ashley Sanchez coming off the left and look how many goals she's got.
00:12:01.120 --> 00:12:04.799
Gia Cauley then got three goals in four games, moving positions onto the left.
00:12:04.879 --> 00:12:10.080
So maybe we'll start to see coaches think, huh, Ashley Sanchez has moved to that position.
00:12:10.399 --> 00:12:12.159
Let's try and do something different here.
00:12:12.320 --> 00:12:15.039
So yeah, I just think it's been San Diego has been brilliant.
00:12:15.200 --> 00:12:18.720
Jonas has had a really good season, but they want to win a championship.
00:12:18.879 --> 00:12:23.360
And Gotham, Jordan Dudley being now out with that season-ending injury, I feel for her.
00:12:23.600 --> 00:12:25.120
There's a lot of injuries right now.
00:12:25.279 --> 00:12:27.679
Uh, Maddy Darlene as well with Seattle.
00:12:27.840 --> 00:12:30.159
So it thought to go out to those teams.
00:12:30.240 --> 00:12:32.799
But we've seen crazy trades, guys, as well.
00:12:32.879 --> 00:12:34.639
Like I was in England for two weeks.
00:12:34.799 --> 00:12:36.240
I'm like, what's going on?
00:12:36.399 --> 00:12:38.960
Gift Monday, Kundanji, Ella Haas.
00:12:39.200 --> 00:12:40.879
Like, you cannot take your eyes off this league.
00:12:40.960 --> 00:12:45.679
Like, and those trades caught me off guard, a little bit like the Croix Bethune one this season.
00:12:45.919 --> 00:12:49.120
Yeah, it's an exciting time for so many different reasons, right?
00:12:49.279 --> 00:12:51.039
Well, you mentioned you were just back in England.
00:12:51.200 --> 00:12:55.600
You are just all over women's soccer coverage, and we're so excited.
00:12:55.679 --> 00:13:00.720
Uh, you are also gonna be involved in the Ballon d'Or Awards ceremony coming up pretty quick here.
00:13:00.879 --> 00:13:09.279
Talk to us a little bit about what you're doing there, and we have to get your reaction with, of course, Tim Washiwinga and Lorena being nominated this year.
00:13:09.600 --> 00:13:13.440
Yeah, so I'm gonna be hosting, co-hosting the red carpet next Monday.
00:13:13.600 --> 00:13:19.200
I actually land on Monday from doing the game of your team, Kansas C versus Washington.
00:13:19.360 --> 00:13:22.159
I land on Monday and go straight to the hotel, get ready.
00:13:22.320 --> 00:13:23.679
And I'm just really excited.
00:13:23.759 --> 00:13:27.120
Like I was talking to my mum and dad earlier, and I get to do these amazing things.
00:13:27.200 --> 00:13:28.399
I'm sure you guys feel this way.
00:13:28.480 --> 00:13:30.960
Every time I do a game, I feel really blessed and grateful.
00:13:31.120 --> 00:13:39.360
But like the fact that I'm going to be able to speak to like Alexia, Duke Bellingham, Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, like I'm so excited.
00:13:39.440 --> 00:13:41.759
And anyone that knows me knows how much I love football.
00:13:41.919 --> 00:13:44.720
So to get this opportunity, I feel extremely grateful.
00:13:44.879 --> 00:13:49.039
And to answer your question about Temwa and Lorena, like I love Temwa.
00:13:49.200 --> 00:13:51.919
I love Lorena, but I have a soft spot for Temwa.
00:13:52.159 --> 00:13:59.519
And I actually have a jersey that they gave me last year that I need to get signed by her because I don't actually like getting stuff signed by players and stuff.
00:13:59.679 --> 00:14:03.200
But she's just, I love everything about her, so humble.
00:14:03.360 --> 00:14:16.240
And yeah, so I think players like Temwa Shawinga and Barbara Banda and players in the NWSL, I don't think they get the love at the Ballon d'Or that they deserve based upon the league not running in correlation to that award.
00:14:16.399 --> 00:14:20.240
You know, it misses half the season with the way that they do the voting.
00:14:20.399 --> 00:14:23.679
So people don't really see the league as much as they do in Europe.
00:14:23.759 --> 00:14:34.960
So I think that's why it's very European heavy, but that's why it's down to people like me to talk about people like Temwa, Lorena, Barbara Banda, and players like Trinity Robin not being there.
00:14:35.360 --> 00:14:36.559
Just blows my mind.
00:14:36.639 --> 00:14:38.000
So I'm excited.
00:14:38.159 --> 00:14:41.840
Um, it's gonna be a fantastic night, great occasion, and I can't wait.
00:14:42.159 --> 00:14:48.799
You just made a comment that I was dying to make, and it seems like the NWSL players maybe don't get the attention they deserve for this award.
00:14:48.879 --> 00:14:57.120
They're obviously nominated, but you look at Temwa Shuwinga, back-to-back league MVP's back-to-back golden boot, and she was nowhere nearer winning this award last year.
00:14:57.279 --> 00:15:00.799
Um, so I'd love to get your take as we kind of wrap up that part of the conversation.
00:15:00.960 --> 00:15:04.879
Who do you think is the front runner to be the female award winner this year?
00:15:05.120 --> 00:15:07.519
Yeah, I mean, I think you can't look past Alexia.
00:15:07.759 --> 00:15:10.000
I think that's everybody's um tip.
00:15:10.240 --> 00:15:15.519
I mean, she came in last season back from her injury the season before, and Itana Bombati.
00:15:15.679 --> 00:15:19.919
I mean, her and Alexia flip-flop, who's been in the Ballon d'Or, that's how good they are.
00:15:20.159 --> 00:15:23.440
Bunny Shaw, for me, will be closely in second.
00:15:23.519 --> 00:15:24.960
That's what I would do personally.
00:15:25.120 --> 00:15:29.600
I mean, another player that doesn't really get the credit she deserves and bangs goals in.
00:15:29.679 --> 00:15:32.720
I mean, she scored another two at the weekend and makes it effortless.
00:15:32.799 --> 00:15:37.840
And similar to players like Temwa Shawinga, like Temoir, I can't speak highly enough of her.
00:15:38.000 --> 00:15:39.360
I think she's so amazing.
00:15:39.440 --> 00:15:44.399
I know you guys feel that way too, but like she's just an incredible person, incredible player.
00:15:44.559 --> 00:15:53.120
And like I said, people that know football will know, but sometimes when these votes come out, like not everybody's watching every single game in its entirety and seeing what we see.
00:15:53.440 --> 00:15:53.759
Yeah.
00:15:54.000 --> 00:15:55.679
Well, we will sure be looking for you.
00:15:55.759 --> 00:15:58.960
I know you'll have a fire fit on the red carpet, of course, as always.
00:15:59.120 --> 00:16:04.320
But before we let you go, you are on the call this weekend, Kansas City hosting Washington Spirit.
00:16:04.480 --> 00:16:05.279
What do you think?
00:16:05.440 --> 00:16:09.279
We have high hopes for this being just an absolute amazing match.
00:16:09.440 --> 00:16:10.159
What are you thinking?
00:16:10.240 --> 00:16:12.000
Do you have any score predictions?
00:16:12.320 --> 00:16:14.240
Well, I'm looking forward to it first and foremost.
00:16:14.320 --> 00:16:21.600
I mean, Washington Spirit getting that win against Gotham is massive because Rowdy Alley's been rowdy this year, but their home form hasn't been the best.
00:16:21.759 --> 00:16:26.879
I think it's Kansas City currently coming off the back of those two incredible wins, you know, 5-1 against Bay.
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:36.960
Then beating Utah, we've got to give some love to Utah as well before I go, because although they seem to be falling off the wagon a little bit towards the end of the season, Jimmy Kunratz has done incredible work with that roster.
00:16:37.279 --> 00:16:39.120
So, but yeah, I think I'm gonna go.
00:16:39.200 --> 00:16:42.879
I don't want to be, you know, I never sit on the fence, but I think there's gonna be a lot of goals in this game.
00:16:43.039 --> 00:16:45.360
And I'm going to go 2-2.
00:16:45.840 --> 00:16:46.879
Ooh, okay.
00:16:47.360 --> 00:16:48.240
It'll be quite a game.
00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:49.759
Yeah, we're here for it.
00:16:49.840 --> 00:16:50.480
We're here for it.
00:16:50.639 --> 00:16:52.000
Well, we certainly appreciate the time.
00:16:52.159 --> 00:16:53.200
Best of luck on the call.
00:16:53.360 --> 00:16:54.240
Safe travels.
00:16:54.320 --> 00:16:58.799
If you can do anything to get us some extra votes for Timoff or Baland Dior, we would love you for that.
00:16:58.879 --> 00:17:00.480
But Leanne Sanderson, appreciate the time.
00:17:00.559 --> 00:17:01.279
Thanks for joining us.
00:17:01.519 --> 00:17:02.159
Thanks, guys.
00:17:02.240 --> 00:17:03.200
Thanks for having me.
00:17:03.519 --> 00:17:04.559
All right, good stuff there.
00:17:04.720 --> 00:17:05.599
Good to hear from Leanne.
00:17:05.839 --> 00:17:07.920
And now it's time for the big game preview.
00:17:08.079 --> 00:17:09.359
Only one of two games left.
00:17:09.440 --> 00:17:11.759
The last home game of the regular season for the current.
00:17:12.000 --> 00:17:16.720
They're in a position to have a home playoff game, at least one, so they need to keep this momentum going.
00:17:16.880 --> 00:17:18.000
And it's not an easy one.
00:17:18.160 --> 00:17:23.839
Washington's coming in in third place, one spot ahead of the current, coming off a win against first place Gotham.
00:17:24.000 --> 00:17:26.319
Trinity Rodman, one of the stars of the league.
00:17:26.400 --> 00:17:28.880
They have momentum just like the current has momentum.
00:17:29.119 --> 00:17:32.799
This is uh a possible NWSL championship type preview.
00:17:33.119 --> 00:17:33.519
Oh, for sure.
00:17:33.599 --> 00:17:37.519
And it is a clash of momentum because look at what these teams have done lately.
00:17:37.839 --> 00:17:42.880
Washington spirit delaying Gotham, clinching the shield, that was a huge win.
00:17:43.039 --> 00:17:46.720
It was at home and they had that kind of home field advantage, if you will.
00:17:46.799 --> 00:17:49.759
However, they have not been very successful at home this year.
00:17:49.920 --> 00:17:53.599
So the fact that they were able to do that, I think was a massive win.
00:17:53.759 --> 00:17:58.319
So they're coming into Kansas City with this huge uh bout of momentum.
00:17:58.480 --> 00:18:02.400
And obviously, Kansas City is bringing home a huge victory, three three points.
00:18:02.480 --> 00:18:04.160
We just talked about how important it was on the road.
00:18:04.240 --> 00:18:05.200
They made a statement.
00:18:05.359 --> 00:18:10.559
This is gonna be a collision of energy, of momentum, of hopeful play, of brave play.
00:18:10.720 --> 00:18:19.759
Uh, I do think of all teams in the league, Washington is a team that is semi-used to playing in front of an environment similar to CPKC Stadium.
00:18:19.920 --> 00:18:22.480
Audi Field is known for being called rowdy Audi.
00:18:22.640 --> 00:18:24.000
Their environment is top-notch.
00:18:24.319 --> 00:18:26.480
CPKC is so special, though.
00:18:26.640 --> 00:18:30.240
We know what Kansas City does when they play in front of their home fans.
00:18:30.400 --> 00:18:32.559
So I am extremely excited for this matchup.
00:18:32.640 --> 00:18:36.559
And to your point, this is almost a playoff match already.
00:18:36.720 --> 00:18:42.960
This could almost be, again, knock on wood, an NWSL championship preview, not just playoff preview.
00:18:43.039 --> 00:18:49.119
These two teams are just really making their cases to why they deserve to be in that championship match.
00:18:49.440 --> 00:18:51.039
Everybody knows about Trinity Rodman.
00:18:51.200 --> 00:18:54.240
Who else should Casey Current fans be on the lookout for this weekend?
00:18:54.640 --> 00:19:04.480
You know, she is such an attention grabber and she just plays so big and does so many great things, but she's not only the only backpost target that Lacey Santos is looking for.
00:19:04.640 --> 00:19:06.559
Lacey Santos is where my eyes are.
00:19:06.640 --> 00:19:09.920
She's the Colombian midfielder who really likes to dictate traffic.
00:19:10.079 --> 00:19:12.079
She really likes to control everything.
00:19:12.160 --> 00:19:16.799
She's got her buddy Hal Hirschfeld behind her, who's the physical monster in the middle of the pitch.
00:19:16.960 --> 00:19:18.319
But Lacey is very creative.
00:19:18.400 --> 00:19:22.480
She's almost like a Croix Bethune, the way that she can create offense.
00:19:22.640 --> 00:19:29.839
So other attackers, Sophia Cantori, the Italian forward who's come to the league and made a big impact very, very quickly.
00:19:30.079 --> 00:19:33.920
Ashley Hatch, kind of a super sub, returning from maternity leave.
00:19:34.079 --> 00:19:34.960
Love to shout that out.
00:19:35.279 --> 00:19:40.240
Rosmond Kawassi from Ivory Coast, all players that are proven goal scorers.
00:19:40.400 --> 00:19:49.359
And then, of course, we do have Clara, Clara Lavanga from Tanzania, who has just recently came over to the NWSL, and she's gonna be dangerous.
00:19:49.519 --> 00:19:53.759
If Washington finds her feet, she's smooth on the ball in front of goals.
00:19:53.839 --> 00:19:56.880
She's done very well in a very short period of time in the league.
00:19:57.039 --> 00:19:58.880
So spirits stacked, man.
00:19:59.039 --> 00:20:07.359
Kansas City is gonna have um a big responsibility to just eliminate any offensive attacks, and that for me starts with limiting Lacey Santos in the midfield.
00:20:07.759 --> 00:20:13.279
During this three-game winning streak for Kansas City, they've outscored their opponents 11-2, and they're coming off a shutout.
00:20:13.359 --> 00:20:16.079
I don't expect this would be a 4-0 game or something like that.
00:20:16.240 --> 00:20:20.000
I think it should be a hard-fought game, but how does the current keep this momentum going?
00:20:20.160 --> 00:20:21.279
What are some of the keys to the game?
00:20:21.599 --> 00:20:25.680
Yeah, I think for me, and we how many times we say this, Dave, score first, score first.
00:20:26.000 --> 00:20:26.880
They did it last weekend.
00:20:27.119 --> 00:20:32.079
And then I was gonna say, and then at home the team goes out, doesn't score first, but they claw their way back in.
00:20:32.160 --> 00:20:33.519
But again, in Utah they did.
00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:34.799
And it was Haley Hopkins.
00:20:34.880 --> 00:20:37.039
I think she scored the first one that was called back even.
00:20:37.279 --> 00:20:40.000
So she scored first, it was called back, then she scored again and again.
00:20:40.079 --> 00:20:45.759
Um but if Kansas City can come out on the front foot, this is gonna be a very high-energy emotional match.
00:20:45.920 --> 00:20:52.079
So which team can keep their heads about them, play with composure, play with efficiency, and execute early.
00:20:52.240 --> 00:20:55.599
Really, for me, those are those that team is gonna be able to control this match.
00:20:55.680 --> 00:20:55.839
Trevor Burrus, Jr.
00:20:56.000 --> 00:21:01.839
You talked about the advantage of CPKC Stadium, even though Audi Field is rowdy and Washington's used to it.
00:21:02.000 --> 00:21:04.160
Washington has not come in here and had success, right?
00:21:04.240 --> 00:21:08.400
It's been more than two full seasons since the currents lost at home in the regular season.
00:21:08.559 --> 00:21:16.559
So I look at this as a matchup of two hot teams, two pretty even teams, but I would have to lean a little bit towards Kansas City just because of the form and the home field.
00:21:16.960 --> 00:21:17.839
I do, I agree with you.
00:21:17.920 --> 00:21:25.279
And I don't know if we've chatted it out just yet, but I mean Dabino with a hat trick, Haley Hopkins with a hat trick, Haley Hopkins with a brace, Tim Washawinga back in form.
00:21:25.359 --> 00:21:28.799
Tim Washawinga looking as healthy and as fit as we've seen her this year.
00:21:29.119 --> 00:21:34.400
Look at all this goal production that's happening, and then drop in Croy Bethuna's back to start some things.
00:21:34.480 --> 00:21:38.880
And then, of course, Vanessa Di Bernardo is finding herself every match.
00:21:38.960 --> 00:21:42.720
She looks more and more like the Vanessa Di Bernardo that we know and love.
00:21:42.799 --> 00:21:45.599
Uh, and so there's just so much offensive production.
00:21:45.680 --> 00:21:50.720
And we always talk about it the best defense is offense, and the best way to score goals is with offense.
00:21:50.799 --> 00:21:57.359
And so for me, the the sheer amount of goal production that Kansas City has been producing over these past three matches is massive.
00:21:57.599 --> 00:22:00.000
So I'm gonna go with the advantage in Kansas City's favor.
00:22:00.480 --> 00:22:02.880
Big playoff implications for this one as well.
00:22:03.039 --> 00:22:14.799
Regardless of any other results, a Kansas City win would clinch a playoff spot, and there's a chance to clinch a top four spot if the teams right behind the current end up knocking off each other, which is in is interesting.
00:22:14.880 --> 00:22:15.839
We talked about it.
00:22:15.920 --> 00:22:23.920
Um there's a lot of matchups of teams that are right behind the current, so hopefully they'll they'll do some damage to each other and help Kansas City's chances of hosting a home playoff game.
00:22:24.160 --> 00:22:24.880
What's your prediction?
00:22:25.200 --> 00:22:26.240
Okay, this is really tough.
00:22:26.319 --> 00:22:27.359
I th this is crazy.
00:22:27.519 --> 00:22:31.680
I think it's either gonna be like 3-3 or like maybe 1-0.
00:22:32.079 --> 00:22:35.839
I know that's a little wild, but I I think I'm gonna lean toward the more goals.
00:22:35.920 --> 00:22:39.279
I think both teams have proven goal scorers.
00:22:39.519 --> 00:22:42.240
They have uh this momentum we've talked a little bit about.
00:22:42.400 --> 00:22:47.119
Um but I'm gonna go I'm gonna go three-one Kansas City.
00:22:47.440 --> 00:22:48.720
Well, you just gave three scenarios.
00:22:49.119 --> 00:22:50.160
You went with a totally different one.
00:22:50.240 --> 00:22:50.480
I like it.
00:22:50.960 --> 00:22:51.920
In my head, I'm like, oh God.
00:22:52.160 --> 00:22:53.359
I'm gonna go two to one Kansas City.
00:22:53.519 --> 00:22:55.759
Although I could see them getting a late goal to make it three to one.
00:22:55.839 --> 00:22:59.359
I think it'll be a really tight game, and maybe Kansas City pulls away at the end.
00:22:59.519 --> 00:23:05.039
We have to mention as we wrap up, it's gonna be the biggest home game in the history of the Kansas City Current.
00:23:05.200 --> 00:23:17.279
One current this Sunday, not just 11,500 fans plus in the stadium with extra extra standing room only, but hopefully up to 18,000 fans, including the crowd at Current Landing.
00:23:17.440 --> 00:23:21.759
You can get in on the action with grounds pass tickets for just ten dollars.
00:23:21.920 --> 00:23:23.920
Visit KansasCityCurrent.com.
00:23:24.079 --> 00:23:32.400
Lots of giveaways, including giveaways for fans just in the stadium, the bobblehead, fans inside and outside the stadium, the exclusive KC Current flag.
00:23:32.720 --> 00:23:36.319
And my understanding is there's zero tickets left for inside the stadium.
00:23:36.480 --> 00:23:40.799
So now the only chance is to get grounds passes and you can still be a part of the atmosphere.
00:23:40.960 --> 00:23:42.160
It's gonna be a blast on Sunday.
00:23:42.400 --> 00:23:47.119
Yeah, it's gonna be special here in Kansas City, and I'm telling you, you don't want to miss this Dabina bobblehead.
00:23:47.279 --> 00:23:53.759
If you can't get your hands on it, at least you want to see one, come out and hang out with us right here at CPKC Stadium.
00:23:53.839 --> 00:23:56.480
And come early, because we're gonna do a new pregame show.
00:23:56.640 --> 00:23:59.200
So if you can swing by our studios, we'd love to say hello.
00:23:59.599 --> 00:24:01.119
Yeah, it's gonna be an awesome weekend.
00:24:01.200 --> 00:24:02.880
Hopefully the current can keep rolling.
00:24:03.200 --> 00:24:04.160
That'll do it for us.
00:24:04.319 --> 00:24:05.279
Big game this weekend.
00:24:05.359 --> 00:24:06.480
We'll recap it next week.
00:24:06.640 --> 00:24:08.079
Kansas City and Washington.
00:24:08.160 --> 00:24:09.200
Thanks so much for tuning in.
00:24:09.279 --> 00:24:11.200
You've been watching the current situation.
