FiftyFive.One Podcast: Recent Episodes
FiftyFive.One Podcast
FiftyFive.One comes from Saint Paul, Minnesota, covering the world of soccer including Minnesota United FC, NASL, MLS, and US Soccer.
The pod come out of hibernation to evaluate 7 years of Heath and look back at the 2023 season.
The pod gets back together to recap the last few months for the Loons and talk about Aurora's upcoming season.
What have we learned about Minnesota United in 2023, a year without Reynoso? The pod returns to recap the first month and talk about what the team looks like.
Ain't no sunshine when Rey's gone. The pod team reassemble to discuss the offseason for Minnesota United and what to make of Emanuel Reynoso going AWOL. What does this mean for the 2023 season as the pod gives their preseason predictions?
Back in 2016, renowned journalist Grant Wahl made a bold prediction: Minnesota United could be the worst team in MLS expansion history. Before the Loons had signed a player, before they had a coach, he set their over/under for wins at 5.Fast forward to July 2017 and the fans celebrated Minnesota United's 6th win by declaring Grant Wahl Day and raising a scarf that read: "You know nothing, Grant Wahl. The North Remembers."Grant, who at first took a bit of umbrage at the reactions to his "hot take" (he very much didn't like this phrase), had by that time become part of the joke. He was incredibly touched by the scarf.This interview (terribly recorded, my deep apologies) was from the week after Grant Wahl Day.Grant will be incredibly missed. He was such a kind and talented man.
The pod looks back at the Minnesota United 2022 season. They also make an announcement about future episodes, so go listen.
Minnesota United ended their late season slump with a win at hoe to clinch the playoffs. But is it enough? Is this a better and improved Loons? Are we full on JoGoMania?
The regular season is closing for Minnesota United and they seem lost. they lost to San Jose and now come into their final match needing a result to get to the playoffs.
The pod talk about this week's series of racist incidents in soccer in the news roundup. And they discuss the LAFC draw and SKC loss for Minnesota United to ask: are we making the playoffs?
The podcast discuss a very poor poor week for Minnesota United as they lost 3-0 to RSL and 3-0 to Dallas.
Minnesota United squeaked out a win over Houston to be the best in the league over the last few months, but they lost Bakaye Dibassy. Minnesota Aurora unveiled their new mascot Rory.
THe pod tackles the soccering of the EPL and the bare bottomed spanking of Austin FC by Minnesota United FC.
The podcast continues their post-All Star Week come down to talk about Minnesota Aurora, Minnesota United's hot summer, and take questions.
The pod takes a special look at Minnesota Aurora's heartbreaking loss in the USL W League Final. They celebrate the coming Bongi Dominance for Minnesota United FC.
The pod discusses the dream Minnesota Aurora run, Minnesota United showing up for a 5 game unbeaten streak, and the buttock-accentuating fashion of racist Italian cops.
The pod discusses Minnesota Aurora clinching the playoffs, Crawley Town going NFT crazy, and Minnesota United's big 6 point week.
Head Coach Nicole Lukic has led Minnesota Aurora to 8 straight wins and is undefeated on the season. So Wes called her up to talk to the head coach of the Million Dollar Team.
The pod discuss the upcoming July of Women's Soccer, Minnesota Aurora's continuing hot steak, and Minnesota United's loss against the New England Revolution.
The pod discusses the undefeated Aurora, Matt Turner being a meanie, and Minnesota United's loss against the New England Revolution
The podcast team laments the Peru World Cup Qualifying loss, talks Minnesota Aurora FC, and then recaps the positives from the Loons v Paderborn.
It's International Break time, so the pod looks back on the European leagues, looks forward to international matches, and at the recent stumbles by Minnesota United FC
Minnesota Aurora kicks off with its inaugural match this Thursday and Wes called up director of soccer, Matt Privratsky to try to give insight into how the team will play and who the players are.
Minnesota United had three game days in one week as they beat Clint "Old Dutch" Irwin's Rapids in the Open Cup and lost to Seattle. Again.
Corey is away so Mark, Wes, and Rodrigo talk about the 1-0 loss at home for Minnesota United against Cincy.
Minnesota United went to LAFC and lost, but we got to see full Bongi on display, so that was good.
Minnesota United put the spanking on the Chicago Fire with a 3-0 win. The pod discusses this and whether Robin Lod should just be our starting striker.
Minnesota United scored not one, not two, but THREE goals IN A SINGLE GAME! The pod looks at what happened in the win over Colorado and talk about the reserves team. They preview the Mingos Open Cup Match and Chicago Fire on the weekend.
The pod talk about the unveiling of Minnesota Aurora's inaugural kits and Minnesota United's sad loss to Austin FC.
Without Wes, the pod turns to Jeffrey Bissoy to talk about World Cup Qualification and the Draw. Then they talk about the Minnesota United loss to Seattle.
Minneapolis City are Undefeated* in the US Open Cup and they're facing the Des Moines Menace in the first round of the 2022 Open Cup. Wes talks to MPLS City's Head Coach Matt VanBenschoten about the open cup and the move to USL2.
Minnesota beat San Jose 1-0 with a goal from Amarilla. The pod revels in Calvo being bad and the Loons' continued finishing struggles. Also, there is a bizarre tangent on how to dip oreos in milk.
Minnesota United go on the road and Dayne St Clair leads them to a marvelous road victory with a saved pk and several more saves to boot. The pod also discusses Atlanta's suggestive Arthur Blank tifo. And other shenanigans.
Minnesota United got a bit of a lucky draw with Nashville in a very cold and rainy match. Plus bidet talk.
The new 2022 Minnesota United season kicks off and the podcast talks about the 1-1 draw with Philadelphia.
What does 2022 hold for Minnesota United? The pod crew looks forward and makes their optimistic, semi-optimistic, and pessimistic predictions for the season. Plus, the all important Hotness Power Rankings.
The team returns to talk about lower division Chilean teams that are sponsored by toilets. They talk about the whirlwind news from Minnesota Aurora. Then it's Minnesota United time with the imminent signing of Amarilla, trouble with Arriaga, and preseason matches.
The pod returns to round up the good, the bad, and the weird of world soccer. They talk about the potential return of Luis Amarilla and the potential signing of Kervin Arriaga. And they have to unfortunately remind people that homophobia is bad.
The crew get together to talk about who's in and who's out at Minnesota United, including the new South African player, Bongokuhle Hlongwane.
Minnesota United signed South African striker Bongokuhle Hlongwane so we called up Shakes Rampedi, an expert in South African soccer to talk Hlongwane and South African soccer.
A look at the state Minnesota United as they go into the offseason. Who's on the way out and who do they need?
It's the end of 2021andthe team get together for a full review of the 2021 season. They give grades and talk about what worked and what didn't.
Minnesota United came to the end of their brief postseason with a loss to the Portland Timbers.
On this week's pod: The Good: MNUFC goes on a MLS is Back Bender and sing karaoke. The Bad: PRO Refs in the SKC v RSL match The Weird: Atlanta United's President is the worst hype man on the planet. Minnesota United closed out their regular season like a cheetoh and Monster energy drink fueled Chuck E Cheese Birthday Party, but a draw is a draw... so what does that mean for the playoffs? Can they win?
With the season running down the group talks about: -the NWSL and its players agree to the players' demands on transparency and fighting abuse -Gremio fans destroy the VAR stations -Minnesota United are terrible against Vancouver -Minnesota United are fantastic against Kansas City -What the hell do we do with this team?
Megan Rapinoe came to Black Hart Tim Melia bodyslams Cristian Roldan Loons beat the Union and drew LAFC
The crew talk about -Cloud City hosting local high school teams for the Mayor's Cup -The 10th anniversary of the NSC Minnesota Stars winning the NASL Championship -a threadbare Wonderwall -Chris Wondolowski putting a dude in a head lock -Minnesota giving up 3 unanswered goals to a 10 man Colorado and then a crapload of twitter questions
The crew talk about -NWSL's betrayal of its players -St Pauli praising electoral hijinx -Is Minnesota United's biggest problem their bad MLS pickups? Minnesota United had a disappointing week with 1 point from 2 road games against DC United and FC Dallas.
The group talks about the good, bad, and weird of US Soccer including 60 year old grifter VP of Suriname bribing his way into a match. Then they describe the meeting that happened between Minnesota United executives and supporters groups wherein Chris Wright expressed no desire to do anything. And finally they talk about the 2-0 win over Houston and whether or not this team and succeed in the playoffs.
Minnesota United had their worst loss and best win this season occur within days of one another. The team talks about the Sporting Kansas City loss and the LA Galaxy win and think about which is the real Loons?
Minnesota United go into their hardest week of the season. The crew discuss the dispirited loss to Seattle and the upcoming gauntlet of Kansas City and LA.
Weston McKennie did something bad. Something very bad. We have no idea what he did, but we'll speculate wildly about it. Also, we'll talk about Minnesota United's very poor upcoming schedule.
Minnesota Women's Soccer shares are going on sale, Wes gives a few details. Minnesota United gets an improbable win with a threadbare squad against a terrible, terrible Houston team.
Minnesota United can't score for beans. The team talk about the big Megan Rapinoe mural on the side of the building and other good news in US Soccer. Then they talk about the frustrating 0-0 draw with Sporting Kansas City by the Loons.
On this episode we discuss: -A New Hoppe -Minnesota United hired a new CEO, Shari Ballard. -Minnesota v LA Galaxy and Minnesota v San Jose -But really we hit these two issues: the problem with our roster builds and the problem of why we can't score.
The Loons beat Houston 2-0 in the 75th Dylon Wolpers Derby. The crew talk about the win and round up the USWNT bronze win, Leo Messi to PSG, and more.
Wes sits down with Minnesota United FC's Principal Owner Dr. Bill McGuire to talk about -2021 so far -The challenge of signing players during the pandemic -the search for a new CEO -Development around the stadium -What's holding back MLS?
The US Men win another cup final against Mexico! The US Women lose in a Semifinal! Cannon snitches! The Loons get a lucky draw The Loons get a very very unlucky draw.
The team replace Corey with a guest, Aaron Brown, who is a longtime Timbers fan, but former Minnesota resident, so not all bad. They discuss the US Men and Women this week and Kanye West going full Phantom of Megatron's Butthole. Then they discuss the Minnesota United win against the Portland Timbers.
The crew looks forward to the USWNT in the Olympics, the USMNT in the Gold Cup Knock Outs. Rodrigo gives his Universal Studios review. Minnesota United FC get an improbable win over Seattle Sounders. Then Wes talks about all the wonderfully crap action movies he's been watching.
Wes eats whole pickles as a snack and there is nothing wrong with this. The pod looks back at the Euros and their favorite moments. They talk about the problem of racism in English soccer. Then they talk about Minnesota United's poor, poor match against Colorado. They close by talking about President Chris Wright stepping down and the pivotal moment this represents for the club.
The team returns to in-person recordings and goes through the latest news of Danish triumph and Chicago fans turning on Calvo. They discuss the frustrating Minnesota United draw with San Jose Earthquakes and talk about Cade Cowell's Argentinian mullet.
The team gets back together to talk about the most exciting day of Euro action in ages and they make fun of Ed Sheeran. Then they talk about Minnesota United's two wins where they looked legitimately good and so many praises are bandied about. Then they talk about the racism claims against Fragapane.
Wes is in Maine and the crew are joined by Jeffrey Bissoy of Plugged App and now writing for VidaYDeportes.com. They talk about Denmark's remarkable week and a half in the Euros, the bad week for Mexico, and the weird week for Chilean barbers who think they're just going to help the team break quarantine and end up cutting hair during an orgy. They also talk about Minnesota United's draw with FC Dallas and ask, should Dotson get sold?
In what would eventually devolve into a series of Phil Foden jokes, this podcast starts with the introduction of the USL W League in Minnesota, hits the good and bad of the Euros before previewing the Minnesota United v Dallas game.
Minnesota United didn't play, so the team kicked out Wes and decided to record an all Soccer/Star Wars edition. So... there's your trigger warning.
Minnesota United draw against Real Salt Lake. Copa America moves to Brazil Inter Miami get busted cheating just to sneak into the playoffs.
Megan Rapinoe talks smack, US Soccer and MLS's SUM break up, USMNT releases its roster. Without Minnesota United, the pod does a Euro round up of some news. Then they settle into the important issues of what kinds of animals Michael Boxall could beat in a fight.
Minnesota United won not 1 but 2 games this week and the group discusses what changes were made and Rodrigo tries to make DC Comics jokes.
Minnesota United are bad. Very Bad. Why not wallow in the badness of a 2-0 lead turned 3-2 loss! The pod talk about the NWSL Final win by Portland Thorns and other news, before hitting the loss in Colorado. Then it's the question on everyone's minds: Heath Out?
On this week's podcast -Alas, poor Super League, we hardly knew ye -The end of #HunouWatch -#FrankPainWatch -RSL smash and grab in Minnesota. -Lod needs a calibration -Trapp or Gregus? -Chase, oh my Chase -#OchoaGate kicks off after David Ochoa kicks a ball into the Wonderwall -Pisco recommendations
On this week's podcast we cover: -12 Clubs in Europe want to form a Super League and that's dumb. -Ike is still with Minnesota United -Minnesota United loses to Seattle Sounders 4-0 -What's your favorite supper club?
The team go over the news from around MLS including big CCL wins and the new Young Money Initiative. Then they give a comprehensive preview of the 2021 Minnesota United Preview. The final third, they preview the Loons' competition in the Western Conference.
Wes talks with Van Hong from Spam FC about community organizing, local soccer, and Spam FC's scholarship program.
The crew talk about the NYT's article on Lille in deep financial trouble https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/02/sports/soccer/lille-psg-ligue-1.html?action=click&module=Editors%20Picks&pgtype=Homepage Ted Lasso winning awards MLS concussion protocol. Thomás Chacón gets sent to Liverpool (URU) on loan. Wes completely misuses the term edgelord.
Wes called up Mario Wimberly, who is the Chief Visionary Officer of TC Sol Futsal to talk about all the work he does in the Twin Cities to build up communities and teach kids soccer.
Rodrigo, Corey, Mark, and Wes discuss the internationals: US are good, US are bad, Peru is bad (but it's all COMNEBOL's fault), Cristiano is sad. Then the MLS schedule has been released, so you know they talk about it.
WanchopeWatch is over?
And what are the best coffee shops in Saint Paul
Mark, Rodrigo, and Wes are joined by professional city-planning troll, Alex Schieferdecker. They talk about Hassani Dotson's emergence in the USMNT set up and discuss what role he can or should play for Minnesota United. They close read professional soccer realtor Andrew Wiebe's haiku about Minnesota United. Then they discuss WanchopeWatch. Finally Alex explains his ranking of every MLS stadium and why everyone hates him.
If a tree preseasons in the woods and no one is there to see it, did it have a preseason? Wes, Rodrigo, Corey, and Mark explore this and many other fascinating topics as they discuss the week in Minnesota United and MLS.
Michael Vang comes from East Saint Paul and in 2020 he debuted as one of the first Hmong professional soccer players, playing for Forward Madison. Wes talk to Vang about his path to being a professional and what the future holds.
Mark and Wes are joined by Alex and eventually Rodrigo shows up. They talk about all the depressing news in MLS: JMo injured, Sacramento out of MLS, racist dickhead does racist things. But then they talk about the new Minnesota United kit, Patrick Weah's hate of animals, and more.
Corey, Wes, Rodrigo, and Mark look at the MLS CBA negotiations and what it means for Minnesota United. They update you on all the player transfer watches like Adrian Hunou. And then they talk shit.
The Principal Owner of Minnesota United FC, Dr. Bill McGuire, sit down with Wes to talk about: -Minnesota United's best year ever -Managing through the pandemic -Wes gives him a chance to gloat at the Loons' doubters -The long pursuit of Emanuel Reynoso -When fans might be in stands this year -Minnesota United's academy system, including the surprise success of some young Minnesotans -The team's response to Black Lives Matter and the Summer Uprisings -Development surrounding the stadium -The future of the team -Watching Sunderland Til I Die
Wes, Rodrigo, Mark, and Corey return to talk about the world of soccer. A couple article links: A soccer ball on the Challenger when it exploded lives on https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/30782213/nasa-astronaut-ellison-onizuka-soccer-ball-survived-challenger-explosion Charles Boehm talked to Kevin Molino about moving on https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2021/01/31/new-columbus-crew-sc-signing-kevin-molino-talks-leaving-minnesota-united-trinidad
Mark, Rodrigo, Wes, and Corey talk about the upcoming MLS draft, Minnesota United signing Wil Trapp, and losing Kevin Molino.
Wes calls up Danish Toronto FC fan Henrik Høgholt Lønne and Swedish Minnesota United fan (or at least friend of the team) Johan Dykhoff. They talk about 75 foot long cartoon penises, lower division Scandinavian soccer, Freddy Adu, and more.
It's the end of the year, so Rodrigo, Wes, Mark, and Corey take questions from listeners about Minnesota United, television, and Disney Princesses.
Carl Craig is a legend of Minnesota soccer, having won the NASL title as assistant coach, responsible for the Wonderwall tradition, and then becoming head coach for a year. Now he is the head coach and technical director of Forward Madison. Wes and Carl catch up and talk about soccer and life.
The regular crew are joined by Dr Ian Maher, who won the Dark Clouds charity auction for a spot on the pod. So the pod looks at the Minnesota United semifinal loss to Seattle Sounders. The they discuss the uncertainty around Kevin Molino, Ozzie Alonso, and Ike Opara.
Minnesota United beat Spork Kansas City 3-0 in the Quarter Finals of the MLS Finals and Rodrigo, Wes, Mark, and Corey freak out about it.
Minnesota United FC won a playoff game for the first time since--let me google it--2012. The gang gets together to talk about the pure craziness of the weekend in MLS and Minnesota United's thorough whooping of Colorado Rapids.
It's the end of the 2020 regular season so that means awards time. Wes, Rodrigo, Mark, and Corey give out their awards for Minnesota United FC's regular season.
GOAL: Emanuel Reynoso - 47th minute November 8, 2020 https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/11/08/goal-emanuel-reynoso-minnesota-united-fc-47th-minute GOAL: Robin Lod (Calvo losses his mark) - 80th minute November 4, 2020 https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/11/04/goal-robin-lod-minnesota-united-fc-80th-minute GOAL: Ethan Finlay (perfect through ball from Hayes) - 30th minute October 18, 2020 https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/10/18/goal-ethan-finlay-minnesota-united-fc-30th-minute GOAL: Kevin Molino (tikitaka - Lod > Reynoso > Metanire > Molino) September 9, 2020 v FC Dallas https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/09/09/goal-kevin-molino-minnesota-united-fc-28th-minute GOAL: Hassani Dotson (rocket from the top of the box) - 55th minute August 29, 2020 vs FC Dallas https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/08/29/goal-hassani-dotson-minnesota-united-55th-minute GOAL: Jan Gregus (low hard strike from outside the box to put MN up 2-1) March 7, 2020 vs San Jose https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/03/07/goal-jan-gregus-rips-one-put-loons-back-top GOAL: Corner Kick and Ike kills it at the near post. March 7 v SJ https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/03/07/goal-ike-opara-crashing-header-powers-mnufc-early-lead?autoplay=true Goal-Lod-9th min-vs RSL https://www.mnufc.com/post/2020/09/06/goal-robin-lod-minnesota-united-90th-minute?autoplay=true
Mark, Rodrigo, Corey, and Wes reunite to talk about the final Minnesota United FC match of the season. They start by congratulating the Philadelphia Union on their Supporters Shield win and then look at the first round of playoff matchups. Then they talk about about the 3-0 win over FC Dallas.
The 55.1 podcast is 4 years old, so Wes brought back the original crew of Jeff Rueter and Alex Schieferdecker to answer the important questions: who are your all time favorite Loons? What was the most pivotal moment in their MLS history? Why was Bashkim Kadrii not given a chance? And Remember This Guy?
Wes, Rodrigo, Mark, and Corey talk about Minnesota's lucky win over Cincinnati and try to figure out how Minnesota United will fare with the end of the season.
Minnesota United FC drew 2-2 with the Houston Dynamo and Mark, Rodrigo, Corey, and Wes talk about which players are paladins and which are mages and things get generally dumb.
Minnesota United had a 2-0 win over Cincy and a 0-0 draw against Nashville. They also traded away Mason Toye. But really let's talk about all this shitty music your hosts have liked over the years.
Minnesota United lost 2-1 at Columbus Crew and drew 0-0 to RSL. Corey, Wes, Mark, and Rodrigo discuss what went wrong and then finally get to the real question of F/M/K the sexiest head coaches.
It's back! The 7039th edition of the Dylan Wolpers Derby returns as Minnesota go to Houston Dynamo for the 17th time this season. Rodrigo, Wes, Mark, and Corey are joined by prodigal podcaster Alex to talk about the first half of greatness and the second half of predictable terrible from the Loons. Plus Kei Kamara is a Loon!
Dayne Saint Clair has performed two miracles playing for Minnesota United, when will he get his sainthood? Minnesota United played two matches this week and after they dip into Thomas Chacon talk, Rodrigo, Wes, Corey, and Mark talk about a win and a loss for the Loons.
Minnesota United were terrible! Minnesota United were amazing! Which is the real Loons? Corey, Rodrigo, Wes, and Mark discuss the two different performances, the appearance of Bebelo, the Dayne St. Clair debut, and Robin Lod, international man of mystery.
Dad is away! Corey, Mark, and Rodrigo were going to record a podcast because Wes went on vacation, but then Wes shows up with half a bottle of wine and they talk about the Minnesota United loss to Dallas and the upcoming Houston match.
Minnesota United fell to Sporting Kansas City as the league restarted and Mark, Rodrigo, Wes, and Corey are here to talk about where things fell flat. They're also there to say Chacon as many times as possible, to preview the match against FC Dallas and to sing "Bebelo" to as many melodies as possible.
With the rest of the 2020 MLS season kicking off, Rodrigo, Corey, Mark, and Wes look ahead and set expectations. They come up with wish lists for each of the players.
Corey, Mark, Rodrigo, and Wes recap the MLS is Back tournament to ask if Minnesota missed an opportunity or exceeded expectations. Then they talk about the debacle of the Minnesota United academy.
Minnesota United bowed out of the MLS is Back tournament. Wes, Rodrigo, Corey, and Mark look back at the final match against Orlando and what went right and what went very wrong. They marvel at the game changing Nani.
Minnesota United gave a raw-bottom spanking to the San Jose Earthquakes and Mark, Corey, Wes, and Rodrigo break down how the plan worked and look forward to a semi-final match-up with Orlando.
Minnesota United beat Columbus Crew in the first round of the knockouts. Corey, Mark, Rodrigo, and Wes talk about what worked and praise TylerMiller's pornstache. Then they finish off by talking about Harrison Heath coming after Jeff Rueter.
Minnesota United drew with the Colorado Rapids 2-2 and Wes, Rodrigo, Corey, and Mark break down what happened.
A semi-quick post-game reaction to Minnesota United's draw against Real Salt Lake from Rodrigo, Mark, Corey, and Wes
Minnesota United is back and they're top of the table. Mark, Rodrigo, Wes, and Corey talk about the NWSL, MLS returning, but most importantly, Minnesota United beat Sporting Kansas City.
The Athletic's Jeff Rueter makes a return to the podcast to talk about whatever the hell is going on in Florida for the MLS tournament, the return of the USL, and how Christian Ramirez looks without his shirt on (very good).
NWSL returns with a tournament and Rodrgio, Corey, Mark, and Wes discuss the godlike attributes of Rose Lavelle and Debinha. Also, they try to figure out which MLS coaches would make the best step-dads. They discuss the MLS tournament and then the news that Minnesota United is shuttering its academy.
Minnesota United have learned their group for the MLS is Back Cup and the pod has been adjourned to discuss their fate and the fate of all mankind. Alex makes a triumphant return with Corey, Mark, Rodrigo, and Wes
The USWNT have some harsh words for USSF who banned kneeling to protest police brutality. La Liga is back. Saudi/Qatar drama. MLS tournament details (kinda). Wes, Rodrigo, Corey, and Mark are back to talk about it all.
We're back to talk soccer. Rodrigo, Corey, Mark, and Wes return to soccer talk to discuss the rise of the Bundesliga and MLS potentially returning with a bizarre plan to sequester everyone in Orlando.
The Front 3 is a little break from regular soccer programming where Wes talks to people from the soccer world about music. In this episode, Wes talks to Arielle Castillo, who has written for Rolling Stone and Spin as well as creating content for MLSsoccer.com and an EPL team, to get the 3 songs that changed her life.
Song Links: The Sex Pistols. Anarchy in the UK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbmWs6Jf5dc
Desmond Dekker. 007 (Shanty Town) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dXapbRSHzw
Goldie. Inner City Life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anQgfwdZUkE
Usually this is a soccer podcast, but in the absence of soccer, Wes is talking to soccer people about music. Wes talks to Fox Sports' Alexi Lalas to talk about how music has been a part of his life. Lalas picked 3 songs that changed his life. Song links:
John Cougar. Jack and Diane. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h04CH9YZcpI
Ratt. Round and Round. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0u8teXR8VE4
Til Tuesday. Coming Up Close. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSRzWMKlrvo
Changing things up this week. Wes talks to the Godfather of Minnesota soccer, Bruce McGuire about 3 songs that changed his life.
Patti Smith, Gloria https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPO0bTaWcFQ
LL Cool J, Rock the Bells (Original)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGabHGJAHfc
The Orb, A Huge Ever Growing Pulsating Brain That Rules from the Centre of the Ultraworld https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nL1-jnCkfw
Wes talks to former Minnesota Stars Captain Kyle Altman who led the NSC Minnesota Stars to the 2011 championship and then the final in 2012 before retiring to become a doctor.
It's a return of the regular podcast! Rodrigo, Corey, Mark, and Wes discuss the potential return of Bundesliga, whether MLS with no fans is worth it, and well literally anything that comes to mind.
Wes calls up the all-time leading goalscorer in the modern era of Minnesotan soccer, Christian Ramirez to talk about staying sane in the quarantine, his time in Minnesota, and his moves to LAFC and Houston Dynamo.
Wes called up former Minnesota United player Eric Miller to talk about his life under the quarantine and ending up at Nashville SC for their inaugural MLS season.
In the midst of the quarantine, Wes caught up with a fan favorite, former Minnesota United fullback Jerome Thiesson. They talked about his time in Minnesota, including having his first child in the US, and caught up on his time since returning to Switzerland.
There is no soccer, so Rodrigo, Wes, Corey, Mark, and Eric all assemble to talk about whatever the hell comes to mind. They do at some point address the English Premier League's idea to do a mini tournament to finish the season and its implications for MLS but let's be honest, this is stir crazy cabin fever on tape.
Things are heating up! It's a quarantine special as Rodrigo, Alex, Mark, Corey, and Wes all call in through a shitty app and try to keep each other company. They talk soccer, sure, but honestly, we're all still alive and that's something.
Wes and Rodrigo are joined by #IsaWatch to talk about the 5-2 drubbing of San Jose at the hands of Minnesota United.
Mark, Rodrigo, and Wes assemble to talk about the first Minnesota United match of the season, a big win over Portland. They discuss their newly formed radical Chaconista junta as well as To Lod or Not To Lod.
Minnesota United FC capped off its preseason with two matches. Rodrigo, Corey, and Wes talk about the preseason, but also look forward to the start of MLS regular season this week. They preview the Western conference.
Minnesota United played a match and we were actually able to watch. Wes, Mark, and Rodrigo recap the action and try to go through every hyperbolic take they possibly could. Because preseason definitely matters.
A special live episode with Wes hosting The Athletic's Jeff Rueter, Bruce McGuire, and MN Thunder/Stars alum Kevin Friedland to talk NASL stories as well as debate their best XI for the last decade in Minnesota.
Wes sits down with #MNUFC owner Dr. Bill McGuire to talk about stadium development, 2019, the technical staff shakeup, and the future of Minnesota United.
Wes is joined by Mark, Rodrigo, and Alex as they talk about the new Minnesota United signings and the departure of Angelo Rodriguez. More importantly, Mark reveals just what goes into being an obsessive #Watcher and I'm not sure you want to find out.
Peter Wilt has founded more soccer clubs than a dedicated Football Manager gamer. After leaving his latest club Forward Madison, he has taken a gig with the USL as a consultant on how clubs and fans can grow support. Wes talks to Peter about what other clubs should be doing and answer the biggest question of all: which is his favorite club he founded?
What will 2020 hold for the Loons? Wes, Rodrigo, and Watchman Mark give their best predictions, some of them warm and fuzzy as hell. The trio also looks back at the quiet offseason and what yet needs to happen for Minnesota United.
Wes interviews MLS' "Armchair Analyst" Matt Doyle to hear about how he found his way to being a soccer expert, almost ended up flipping burgers in Albuquerque, and then they talk about his favorite revolution from history.
It's the offseason and that means we're on #Watch for signings. And so, we bring in Corey Schreppel and Mark Fangmeier as the podcasts rounds up which players we're watching for whether or not Minnesota is watching. And then because it's the offseason we just talk about TV.
Rodrigo and Wes talk about the latest news with Minnesota United as the technical staff plays musical chairs, Darwin goes to Houston, and they look at who might be leaving.
Few people have covered US Women's soccer more closely than Meg Linehan of The Athletic. Wes talks to Meg about the state of women's soccer, but also her path to being a rare full-time women's soccer journalist.
Rodrigo, Alex, and Wes look forward to 2020 and try to figure out what Minnesota United needs to do in the offseason. They finish up by remembering all the random, forgotten players of Minnesota soccer past.
Wes is joined by Rodrigo and Eric so they can look back at the final game of the season, the MLS playoff loss to LA Galaxy.
Wes speaks with The Athletic's Pablo Maurer about how he came to soccer writing, his work as a photographer, and how he could have ended up a Proud Boy (ok, not really). Check him out on twitter @mlsist
Live from the Black Hart of Saint Paul, Wes is joined by Bruce McGuire and Jeff Rueter to recap the Minnesota United FC season.
It's Rodrigo and Wes talking about Minnesota United getting a bit lucky against SKC, then getting it pretty right for LAFC. A week of two key matchups and Minnesota United have booked themselves a playoff spot. We also talk about saying goodbye to Miguel Ibarra.
Alex rejoins the pod with Wes and Rodrigo talking about the nil nil draw for Minnesota United in Portland.
Eric is back from Brazil and joins Wes and Rodrigo to recap the charity futsal tournament, FC St Pauli winning the Hamburg derby, and Minnesota's win over RSL.
Special Labor Day edition! Rodrigo and Wes go back to relive Minnesota United's US Open Cup loss in Atlanta, but hey, they followed it up with a win. They talk about the triumphant and unexpected win against LAFC.
Rodrigo and Wes are joined by #ISAWATCH to talk about the Minnesota loss to Sporting Kansas City. Then they preview the Open Cup Final.
Wes and Alex do a quick hit on two games. Minnesota beat Colorado and drew Orlando and Alex got his first view of Cloud City.
Rodrigo and Wes are joined by Corey Schreppel to talk about the new EPL season and Christian Ramirez's move to Houston. Then they talk about the 2-1 Minnesota United win over Portland to get into the Open Cup Final. Then it's the 5-3 loss in Dallas. And of course, twitter questions.
Rodrigo and Wes are joined by Timbers fan Joel Vos to talk about the double matchup of Portland Timbers and Minnesota United.
Wes, Rodrigo, and Alex recount Minnesota United's 0-0 draw with Vancouver, the departure of Eric Miller, and whether Wes is gonna fuck a bear.
Eric brought a bottle of wine and this podcast happened. Alex, Eric, Rodrigo, and Wes discuss the NWSL, Minnesota United's draw against Real Salt Lake, and talk about the new signing Wilfried Moimbe.
It was a win perhaps only comparable to beating the Cosmos for the first time. Wes, Rodrigo, and Eric talk about the 7 game winning streak for Minnesota and a surprise ending against Dallas.
It's Rapinoe's World and we're all just living in it. Alex, Rodrigo, Eric, and Wes talk about the World Cup, the Gold Cup, the Copa America, and of course Minnesota United coming away from 3 MLS matches with 9 points.
Rodrigo, Wes, and Alex are back after a hiatus and they're ready to talk about the absolute soccerpocalypse going on around the world. Too. Much. Soccer. Also, during our hiatus Minnesota started scoring goals. a.lot.of.them.
The US just beat Thailand 13-0 and Wes is live at the Black Hart of Saint Paul joined by Holly Manthei, who played in the 1995 World Cup and now works as director of marketing for Surly Brewing.
Wes is joined by Adam Jarvi and Mark Fangmeier to talk about the Minnesota United loss to Philadelphia. They also discuss #Benedettiwatch and every other #watch Mark is keeping. And is Spruce Tree Center terrible or the terriblest?
It's Wes and Rodrigo live from the Black Hart and hey, they've got Bruce McGuire. The three talked about Minnesota United's loss against Atlanta in front of a live audience.
Rodrigo, Eric, and Wes are back to talk about the U20 World Cup, Union Berlin's historic night, and of course Minnesota United's tidy win over Houston Dynamo
Alex, Rodrigo, Eric, and Wes look back on the Loons' victory over the Crew. They talk about the FIFA women's world cup ticketing snafu.
Eric, Rodrigo, and Wes start by talking about the return of local, home-grown, artisinal heckling with Minneapolis City. But really, they just try to figure out how Minnesota became so predictable and poor.
Rodrigo and Wes are joined by Elisa Vicuna so they can talk about Calvo's unceremonious departure, Minnesota United drawing with Seattle, Cristian Roldan being a giant fucking baby, and Elisa's dad pulling a Captain Morgan to intimidate her boyfriend.
Minnesota were back with two matches this week and two consecutive clean sheets at home. Eric, Rodrigo, Alex, and Wes talk about the first win at home and singing the damned song.
Wes doesn't know the difference between Sweden and Norway and he discovers this as he, Eric, and Rodrigo welcome special Swedish guest, Johan Dykhoff of the Afonso Alves Pod. They talk about Minnesota United's loss in Toronto and then just talk about Sweden for a while.
Alex, Wes, and Rodrigo talk about the amazing home opener for Minnesota United's new stadium. Then eventually they talk about the 3-3 draw with NYCFC. This podcast brought to you by our homies at Podiumwear.com
Eric, Rodrigo, and Wes have reunited to recap the improbable win in New York for Minnesota United. They talk about the 3-4-3 and seeing Rodriguez hit a higher bar. They also preview the opening of Allianz Field. This podcast is brought to you by our friends at Podiumwear. Go check them out at Podiumwear.com
Rodrigo and Wes walk through the Minnesota United loss in New England. Are things as dire as some think? Who knows? But they talk about how the team looks 4 games into the season before the last game of their road trip.
Wes was joined by former Minnesota player Connor Tobin, who now plays for Forward Madison and Madison's head coach Daryl Shore at a special live event at the Black Hart of St Paul. Also, here's the number for the special prize package Pentz Homes is giving away. 612.308.1122
Minnesota United lost a game. Eric, Rodrigo, and Wes podcast from their chamber of sadness and #PANIC. Also, they talk about the game and how it wasn't that bad and you know, we have to put things in perspective.
Shut down the season, Minnesota United won the Supporter's Shield. Alex, Rodrigo, Eric, and Wes unmoor themselves from reality and talk about a team with two teams on the road. They also glory in the Atlanta meltdown.
Alex, Rodrigo, and Wes take stock of the 3-2 win in Vancouver. Metanire! Calvo! Ozzie! and More! Alex makes a reference to Zulu war tactics and then twitter questions and general silliness.
Rodrigo, Eric, Wes, and Alex look forward to 2019 and make genius predictions and look at how things will go through their extreme positivity.
It's just Wes and Rodrigo talking about the rogue stream of preseason. Wes also gives his report from Cloud City.
Vito Mannone has been announced as the new Minnesota United goalkeeper. Eric, Wes, Alex, and Rodrigo talk about the team as it stands, the new kits, and the preseason match against Houston.
Special guests Steve Lilly and Brian Hanf join the pod. Steve talks about his beloved yet purgatorial Coventry City, Brian talks about Maplebrook soccer and then they all dig into the meaninglessness of the preseason!
Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric are back to talk three things: BenedettiWatch (the eternal pursuit of the Colombian playmaker), Ike Opara (we signed a CB!), and Christian Ramirez scoring for the USMNT.
Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric are joined by the two Daves of The Daves I Know Podcast for a live event at the Black Hart of Saint Paul. They take stock of the offseason so far. Warning: The Daves, specifically one Dave, uses potty language.
Justin Davis started playing for NSC Minnesota Stars in 2011 and went on to play 7 seasons in Minnesota before moving to Nashville SC. Wes catches up with the Minnesota stalwart to talk about those years in Minnesota as well as being part of a start-up team that is working toward MLS.
Adam from the Scuffed Podcast joins Wes to look at the USMNT January Camp. They look at the up-and-coming kids for the US youth and talk about the upcoming U20 World Cup in May.
The gang is back to finish off 2018. Eric, Alex, Rodrigo, and Wes talk about MNUFC's off-season so far. Jan Gregus is in and, well, that's about it as far as we know, but they talk about rumors and needs for the off-season. Then they attempt to make bold predictions about 2019, but instead come up with some tepid as hell predictions.
Wes is joined by Forward Madison's Managing Director, Peter Wilt, who was previously GM of the Minnesota Thunder, Chicago Fire, Chicago Red Stars, and Indy 11.
The pod is back with Wes, Alex, and Rodrigo eulogizing the departed players from MNUFC. They also talk about the Gregg Berhalter US Men's National Team Hiring as well as the Copa Libertadores debacle.
Wes is joined by Bruce McGuire and Jeff Rueter for a special live podcast recorded at the Black Hart of Saint Paul. The three look back at 2018 and render their genius judgments and then look forward and make brilliant prognostications.
The season is over, but the playoffs have begun! Alex, Eric, and Wes talk about who they fancy in the upcoming MLS playoffs. Then they briefly talk about the Columbus debacle. The bulk of the pod is spent on this question to listeners: who would you target for MNUFC in the offseason? Then it's deciding the most overrated cities in the US and best bars in the Twin Cities.
Zlatan came and Zlataned. Wes, Alex, and Rodrigo discuss the final home match of the season in the 3-1 loss to LA Galaxy. They preview some off-season discussion topics and the final match of the season against Columbus. Speaking of which, you should watch that game at the Black Hart.
Rodrigo and Wes on the podcast this week. They talk about USWNT v Canada coming up on Wednesday. USMNT v Peru which happened just before recording. MNUFC v Colorado which happened, but we would like to forget about it. Then lots of Twitter questions.
Chris Wright gave Minnesota United technical staff before they led the Loons to a 5-1 drubbing in Philadelphia. Alex returns to the podcast to give a report of fans singing "Three Year Plan" to Wright in Philadelphia. But hey, the US Women are going to qualify for the World Cup and the Men are back in action.
The US Women are kicking off the final push for World Cup Qualifying with a game on Thursday against Mexico. Minnesota United get their second win in a row against a weakened NYCFC. And Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric are here to talk all about it.
Wes, Rodrigo, and Eric are back in the lounge of the Black Hart of Saint Paul and they are ready to talk about the NWSL Final. Then they go to the tale of two halves Minnesota match against Portland before hitting on questions and telling the story of Gio Savarese's nachos.
Rodrigo and Wes are back and they dig into the magic of ordering three chilcanos and how it makes Ibarra score goals. They also talk about the NWSL semi-finals and prepare for the final this Saturday.
A quick post-game discussion of Minnesota v DC United as well as USMNT and NWSL with du Nord, Bruce McGuire.
Rodrigo, Alex, and Wes are all back to talk about about finding joy as the season slips into oblivion and try to answer which player would be best at burlesque dancing.
Off again this week, but wanted to answer a listener question and announce the watch party at Town House Bar (future Black Hart) this Saturday.
For our 100th episode, Jeff Rueter returns with Wes and Alex to talk about the Ramirez trade and to look at MNUFC's peers around the league. And then lots of twitter questions. It's a long one, folks.
Rodrigo and Wes celebrate Peruvian Independence Day by talking about the 4-2 drubbing of Minnesota United...? Plus there is an update on #SaintNicWatch and what the hell is this team thinking by considering trades for Ramirez?
And you may ask yourself, where did I get these 9 points? And you may ask yourself where did I get this beautiful wife? Rodrigo, Eric, Alex, and Wes talk about the midweek win over New England, the bare-bottom spanking of LAFC, the Benedetti rumors, the Ramirez discontent, and a million twitter questions. Sorry this show went long.
Wes has a special sit down with Fox Soccer consultant and producer, Ben Grossman who is minty fresh off a month at the World Cup. They talk about what goes in to making a World Cup tv production work and succeed. Ben is also a minority owner of Minnesota United, so the two also delve into how he rates the Loons so far.
Zut Alors! The French have won the World Cup. Eric, Alex, and Wes recap the World Cup final and then dig into Minnesota United's fraught win over the Really Salt Lakes. Eric also impersonates Mike Petke, so trigger warning on that.
Minnesota doubled the Ibarra for double the fun! Alex Schieferdecker returns from Europe to talk World Cup and MNUFC with Rodrigo and Wes. The three walk through the last week of craziness that included a hat trick of genius from Darwin Quintero.
World Cup Fever has not yet abated and Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric talk about the craziness of Japan v Belgium and France v Argentina. They also talk about the historic announcement from Collin Martin, announcing that he is the only openly gay man actively playing in the big US sports. Then there was that Dallas loss, which didn't quite feel as bad as other losses.
The fever has not broken. Wes, Rodrigo, and Eric talk about their favorites: Germany v Sweden, Serbia v Switzerland, and all the other craziness. Minnesota United FC played twice this week and, well, it wasn't great, but the guys power through the pain.
the World Cup has kicked off an it's been fantastic so far. So fantastic that Wes' former du Nord Futbol Show co-host Bruce McGuire joined Wes and Rodrigo to talk about the surprises and disappointments so far this week in the World Cup.
It's the World Cup. Do you have the fever? The only cure is more World Cup. So Eric, Rodrigo, and Wes give their predictions for the World Cup.
Wes went down to Kansas City to lose his voice and watch the Loons get another spanking in KC. Some traditions are too important to break. Eric and Rodrigo join the podcast so that Rodrigo can talk and talk about Peru. Have you heard that Peru is going to the World Cup? JEEEEEEEEEEEZ. Oh and they take twitter questions.
It won't go down in the top 5 for the long history of Montreal Impact meltdowns, but Minnesota yet again had the Montreal Meltdowns' number. Rodrigo, Wes, and Alex talk about the Minnesota win, Coventry City's first promotion in 5 decades, and the US Youngins beating the Bolivian C team.
It's the fantastic four back again. Alex takes a break from his run on the trivia circuit to rejoin Rodrigo, Eric, and Wes. The four talk about the draw against the Sporks. They also talk about the weird story of Sporting Lisbon and other global news stories.
Eric, Wes, and Rodrigo are back to talk about the craziness in the world of soccer. The USMNT is coming to Minnesota! Duluth in the Open Cup! And then they talk about Minnesota United losing twice in a week. Ugh. I'm gonna need a drink for this.
Miguel Ibarra has three game-winning assists and one game-winning goal. Minnesota only have four wins, so, Math. Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric talk about the scrappy win against Vancouver and praise Miguel, Bobby, and more. They then turn their eyes to the darkness of playing away to LAFC with no strikers and no Ibson. And they wept.
The curse of Wes has been lifted after the spirit of Calvo appeared to Wes in a dream with a note. Seriously. Eric, Wes, and Rodrigo talk about the win over Houston, they also talk about the potential of a 3-5-2.
On July 31, Tottenham Hotspur are playing AC Milan at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. As part of a partnership with the ICC, Wes speaks with Spurs legend Ossie Ardiles about Spurs, Argentinians, and the World Cup.
Rodrigo and Alex have decided that Wes has somehow cursed Calvo after their spat and he is responsible for the team's bad run. The three of them talk about the Seattle match and then take some time to consider the many twitter questions that asked various iterations of #HEATHOUT?
It's a full podcast with Rodrigo and Eric joining Wes and Alex returning from his transit exploration of Portland. There is a lot of mostly bad news coming out of Russia, but Rodrigo wants to talk about a trained bear. Eric updates everyone on the 2nd division Brazilian club that we're obsessed with (Goias), the 6th division English club Whitehawk FC has been relegated, so we cry about that. Then we talk about Minnesota United FC. Quintero scores, but the defense is plagued by "individual" "errors" that certainly, definitely could not be systematic in nature. Nope.
Rodrigo and Wes open up the mailbox to talk about soccer, covering all your favorite issues like whether or not vodka is beer and if it is, what kind of vodka is Rasmus Schuller? They also talk about how much they hate Atlanta and how Portland Timbers are a wreck. And Dom Dwyer is a bad human.
The Loons lost in the cold, Darwin Quintero is official, and Zlatan is God. Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric talk about the 1-0 loss at home to Atlanta and Calvo and Ibarra clapback at Wes.
Welcome to the Designated Player Era of Minnesota United FC. Wes and Rodrigo discuss the Darwin Quintero arrival for the Loons. They also talk about the Thwumping Red Bulls put on Minnesota and recap some of the international break.
It's a packed pod with Alex, Rodrigo, and Eric all joining Wes to talk about the Loons home opening win over the Chicago Fire. They talk about Ibarra slotting in as a number 10, the Sam Nicholson Fanclub, and what is in store for the Loons. They also talk about how Clint Dempsey keeps punching dudes in the junk and why that's not a good thing.
Minnesota United picked up its first win of the season in Orlando. Wes and Alex are joined by Jeb Brovsky to talk about the team so far. Kevin Molino went down for the season with an ACL tear and Jeb knows a thing or two about those. The guys also talk about crazy owners taking guns onto the pitch and take twitter questions.
Jim Oliver joins Wes as the two talk about an actual competitive match of soccer. They have the good, the bad, and the weird, and they want to know why Boxall is starting.
Minnesota United won't win the Anthony Precourt Memorial Wooden Spoon, so say Alex and Wes. The two look forward to 2018 and predict what will happen around the league and more specifically with Minnesota United FC.
Soccer is back and we actually watched it on the television. Wes and Alex recap the Minnesota United preseason friendly with Charleston Battery and somehow get drawn into talking about Fergie's National Anthem.
Former Loon Jeb(!) Brovsky joins Wes to talk about his new venture with Generation Footy. The two talk about USSF's presidential election, solve all of US soccer's problems, talk about Minnesota United news, and then take questions.
It was quiet, too quiet. Minnesota United flew down to Florida to train and played a secret scrimmage. So Wes calls up assistant coach Ian Fuller to talk about preseason and how the squad is coming together.
Christian Ramirez was not included in the USMNT's match squad and we're mad. We're going to tell you how mad. Also, David Beckham United International City have announced that at some point they will announce more about their team in Miami. And Minnesota United haven't been up to much beyond preseason training, but that doesn't stop us from talking a whole lot about it.
Alex Schieferdecker was on the ground, watching it all unfold as Minnesota United wheeled & dealed it's way through the MLS SuperDraft. Like fishes & loaves, Minnesota United turned three picks into five players. We get the full report and figure out what this might mean for the team.
It's MLS SuperDraft time!!! And that means MLS's Bobby Warshaw returns to the show to give us the combine skinny from Orlando and to look forward to the draft. Alex and Wes also talk about Minnesota United FC's newest signing, Frantz Pangop.
There have often been conversations and dreams of building a fan-ownership model for clubs that we see in Germany, England, the rest of Europe, and throughout the world. The tricky business of soccer in the US and ownership laws have made that difficult. But Peter Wilt of NISA has teamed up with Cutting Edge Capital to try to create a model they think can be replicated throughout the US. They are talking to clubs around the country about building fans into the ownership structure. Wilt and Kim Arnone from Cutting Edge Capital join Wes on the podcast to talk through what this might look like.
It's 2018 and we're back! Wes is joined by Alex Schieferdecker and Dave Laidig to catch up on all the news. Christian gets his USMNT callup while not much happens in Minnesota United world. But we've got stats. Dave and Wes collaborated for an article recapping exclusive stats in The Complete Darkness. Dave joins to give a little sneak peak of the article. Go buy the book now at www.bylinepress.com
Before we take a break for the Holidays, Wes sat down with the Washington Spirit's Kassey Kallman. Kassey talked about growing up in the Kallman clan of intense athletes as well as her path to becoming a pro with FC Kansas City, then Boston Breakers, and now Washington Spirit. You should also go check out and buy The Complete Darkness 2017, a book recapping and digging through the 2017 Minnesota United FC season. Go to bylinepress.com.
You get TAM, You get TAM, You get TAM! It's a TAM frenzy in MLS and Wes and Alex are here to wonder if Minnesota United FC are going to look under their seats. Plus Toronto are the best team in MLS and Tigres are the best team in North America.
Matt Privratsky brings us a special Gophers' recap interview with two of the team's standout players, Emily Heslin and April Bockin.
The Gopher soccer team ended up on the wrong side of the bubble come tournament time. Now, soon-to-be seniors Emily Heslin and April Bockin are focused on making sure that doesn't happen again.
We caught up with the two Gopher soccer stars to learn how they're adjusting to the off-season, how they'll try to lead as seniors, and what they might pursue after graduation. Take a listen.
Domestic and International
Sophomore stand-out Nikki Albrecht has now been called into two youth national team camps. She'll be on the roster for a series of scrimmages December 7-11. Watch Twitter for updates if she gets any minutes.
The Gophers are heading to Italy in the spring to scrimmage youth national teams and try their hand in Italian cooking. Believe it or not, the soccer team is not given the same budget as other male-r sports, so if you'd like to help pay the way for the trip you can donate online.
PERU ARE GOING TO THE WORLD CUP! Rodrigo joins Wes and Eric to relive the beauty of his Peru making the World Cup for the first time in almost four decades. But this episode is catching up on far more than just the World Cup qualifiers as the three discuss the craziness of the Columbus Crew drama, Minnesota United scouting in Colombia, and take twitter questions.
Wes is joined by Steve Lilly and Brian Hanf for a big 2017 review. These two long-time Loons fans come in and the three look back at what went well and what didn't from the last season. How were the acquisitions? Did the team beat out expectations? What should we look forward to next season?
Wes is joined by Jeb Brovsky and North Carolina FC's Austin da Luz to talk about basically everything. The two are the kings of STICKTOSPROTS, so the conversation hits the Catalonian revolution before veering toward the MLS and NASL playoffs and why NCFC plays on a whale graveyard.
As if US Soccer needed any more drama, Anthony Precourt, owner of the Columbus Crew, threw the American soccer world into a tailspin with his announcement that he is pursuing moving the club to Austin. Alex and Wes talk about the craziness surrounding the move. In addition, hey, the MLS regular season is over! They discuss the final match against San Jose and look at the playoffs.
To help us cope with the intense sadness that is the US missing out on the World Cup, we brought in noted Scot and recovering "guy who used to dress up as the Loch Ness Monster to heckle goalkeepers at National Sports Center" David Smith. We talk about the US being terrible and whether we should just burn everything down. Then we talk about Minnesota United, where everything is burned down every week.
Chances are you have no idea who Ben Grossman is, but you should. Ben is a minority owner of Minnesota United FC, but he's also a consultant for Fox Sports and heavily involved in how we consume soccer in the US. He also used to do PR for Crystal Palace and the Colorado Rapids, so the guy has been everywhere in the world of football. And Wes sits down with him for a special interview to talk about Minnesota United's first season and the general landscape of soccer.
Wes is joined by Rodrigo and Eric to recap a crazy-busy week of soccer. Christian Pulisic turned water into wine against Panama, Rodrigo's Peru held off Messi, and so much more happened. Then there are two MN United matches to discuss.
It's a special interview! Matt Privratsky has been covering the Gophers soccer team all season and he brings you a special one on one with head coach Stefanie Golan.
Wes and Alex go through the good, the bad, and the weird of soccer news. Then they preview the US Men's World Cup Qualifiers this weekend. Minnesota played Houston last weekend, so they'll try to give it its due and probably fail at that task, but looking ahead there are some opportunities to get revenge on Atlanta and Kansas City.
Wes is joined by outgoing president of the Dark Clouds, Jim Oliver. They talk about building and growing supporters culture in Minnesota. They also talk about the thorough beating Minnesota put on Dallas. Jim, a lover of metal, talk about which metal bands can be paired with particular players. So it's that kind of show.
Wes is joined by Rodrigo Sanchez-Chavarria and Alex Schiefferdecker to talk about the NASL's lawsuit against US Soccer, to not talk about Minnesota versus Vancouver, and then to beatify Danladi's game-winner against Montreal. Also, twitter questions went culinary this week, so Rodrigo gives you Peruvian restaurant advice.
Wes and Alex are joined by Tap-in Guide's Curt Baker, who created the brand new soccer app. They all talk about the Minnesota United draw against Philadelphia Union, how dumb VAR is, and whether there are any U-13 Loons who play on the left. Then the pod comes up with the best soccer BBoy crew possible. You'll just have to listen to the end.
Almost five years after he watched his first professional soccer match, Dr. Bill McGuire is finishing his first season as managing partner of Minnesota United FC in MLS. Dr. McGuire joins Wes in the studio to talk about that time. He reflects back on the decisions that led them to MLS and assesses the team's debut in the top league.
Minnesota United got their first road win in MLS (and their first as a team in 503 days), so we're going to celebrate that. Not before Wes gets angry about the team's inability to not just, you know, pass the ball directly at the opposition. Matt Privratsky joins the pod to talk about the University of Minnesota Gophers soccer team. He has been covering them for FiftyFive.One and they are undefeated in the first four matches of the season.
To celebrate the end of Groundhog's Day the musical, Minnesota United lost twice to Seattle. We sure do love Bill Murray. Alex joins Wes as the two try to dig through a much better performance from Minnesota that ended in a loss regardless.
After a 4-0 drubbing of DC United, Minnesota turns around and gets a thorough spanking from Seattle. It's like that crappy Kevin Spacey movie, Pay It Forward. Alex joins Wes a the two of them lament the team's inability to keep a basic defensive shape. They sigh deeply and talk about other things.
Back in October, Sport Illustrated's Grant Wahl made an offhand prediction that Minnesota United would not get more than 5 wins in 2017. We have not let him forget that and so to celebrate Minnesota United's 6th win of the season, we have Grant Wahl as a guest. Bill Stenross joins Wes to talk about the rest of the week in soccer.
In 2011, the Harrisburg native, Bobby Warshaw realized his dream of becoming a professional soccer player by being drafted 17th by FC Dallas. In the years to come, Bobby would find himself on top of the world in Sweden, scoring 8 goals in 9 games and then coming back down as he tried to navigate his career. Wes interviews Bobby after the publication of his new biography When the Dream Became Reality. The book is a candid look at the unglamorous world of professional soccer.
Wes is joined by Eric Silva Brenneman & Rodrigo Sanchez-Chavarria to talk about the Gold Cup and Minnesota United's two matches against Houston Dynamo and New York Red Bulls.
Wes is joined by Edu Rosales to talk about the Gold Cup kicking off with a particular eye toward the US and Costa Rica. They also talk about the final week of the NPSL North coming up where things are tight as ever and where Duluth have become the villains.
It's a special for the Fourth of July: we're recapping not one but TWO losses in a week. It was sort of an odd one: after getting demolished by NYCFC, a threadbare Loons were barely beaten at home by the Crew. Alex and Wes recap and bemoan.
We've got a special episode talking all things NPSL North. Later this week we'll have another pod recapping the NYCFC loss and Columbus Crew match for Minnesota United. But right now, Wes is joined by NPSL North editor for FiftyFive.One, Kyle Eliason, who breaks down the season as it draws to a close. The two of them are joined by Minneapolis City SC's President Dan Hoedeman. They talk about the niche that teams like MPLS City can fill and lessons learned from the first year and a half of their existence.
It's the middle of the season! Do you know what that means? It's report card time! Wes, Jeff, and Alex get the team together to give out their grades for all the positions on the field, the technical staff, and everything off the field.
Minnesota United faced up against two Cascadia clubs last week and came out of it with four points. Wes, Jeff, and Alex discuss the matches against Portland and Vancouver and celebrate Ibsonity as well as continue their hypetrain for Christian Ramirez.
It was a poor showing in Salt Lake City for Minnesota United. Wes, Jeff, and Alex talk about the match as well as what losing Marc Burch for the season (potentially) means for the club. They also endeavor to reimagine expansion draft decisions. In addition they talk about Minneapolis City's Green Line Derby with Viejos Son Los Trapos and take twitter questions.
With Wes off trying to impress Jose Mourinho, Jeb Brovsky joins Jeff to talk shop. After an analysis of the US men’s national team’s four-point swing, Jeb and Jeff discuss the U.S. Open Cup. Finally, a listener question gets Jeb to open up about how he (an MLS veteran) watches the beautiful game. You won’t want to miss this episode!
Link to listener poll: http://fiftyfive.one/2017/06/fiftyfive-one-reader-poll/
Wes won the lottery by being willfully ignorant of the depressing results of the weekend, so it's on Jeff to carry the water. Christian Ramirez wasn't called into the Gold Cup Squad, which is borderline criminal negligence. Also former GM of Minnesota Stars and a long-time part of Minnesota soccer, Djorn Buchholz, recently took the job as Executive Director of the National Soccer Hall of Fame, so he joins Wes to tell him about his new gig.
Don't stop me, because you've never heard this one before: Adrian Heath used to coach Orlando, so when his new team Minnesota United came up against his old team, boyoboy did he have an axe to grind! Wes and Jeff are joined by Kyle Eliason to talk about the win over Orlando. Also, Kyle gives us an update on the stories from the first few weeks of the NPSL North.
This week, Jeff Rueter is joined by a couple of faces from across the country to talk Minnesota United FC. First, Steve Bernasconi ('The Soccer Tour') stops by to give an assessment of his time in Minnesota (complete with swooning over Minneapolis City). Then, MLSsoccer.com's Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle takes stock of the Loons' roster, looking at issues of depth and the upcoming summer window.
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Minnesota United went to Toronto FC and put in a decent shift despite their loss. But this is still a grossly shallow squad and Jeff and Wes dig through some of the big, looming problems up ahead. Med City FC got a great crowd in Rochester and the Green Line Derby was christened as Minneapolis City played Viejos Son Los Trapos.
Minnesota United beat the Nickelback of MLS, Sporting Kansas City, and Wes and Alex relive the beauty of it. Meanwhile, the NPSL season kicks off this weekend and Kyle Eliason joins to give a preview.
It's just Wes and Jeff this week and the two look back at a Minnesota United loss to San Jose. Plus, they give a sort of 100 day review of the season and look at who might be picked up in the next week before the roster freeze.
Wes and Jeff are joined by Eric Silva Brenneman to talk about Minnesota United not only winning, but getting a clean sheet. They also hit on in-stadium kindergartens and Latino Alt Rock music.
After conceding twice and losing two players to injury before halftime, Minnesota United was able to secure an impressive road point. That, plus some clarifications on the new NPSL North, with Kyle Eliason.
Wes and Jeff talk about the news of the big CONCACAF joint bid for the World Cup, the NASL, and go back through the MNUFC loss to FC Dallas.
The demons have been cast out and now Real Salt Lake are the worst. But most importantly: Minnesota won a game and are no longer the worst team of all time! Wes, Jeff, and Alex clap their cheetoh stained hands together in celebration and Alex continues to hate on Erik Hurtado.
As he finishes his recovery process, Jeb Brovsky joins Jeff and Wes. The three discuss Brovsky's comeback trail, his time in MLS expansion sides, and more. Plus, analysis of Minnesota's 5-2 loss in New England.
Some draws feel like a win. Wes, Jeff, and Alex look back at a much improved Loons performance in Colorado. They also do the whole "talk about other things, too" with the NASL kicking off and internationals coming up.
It was bad. Very, very bad. So let's talk about it. Wes, Jeff, and Alex come together to try to dispel the bad mojo or at least just talk about what went wrong when Minnesota lost 6-1 at home.
Finally! Minnesota has made their debut in Major League Soccer. Just don't ask what the result was. Adam and Katie Jarvi join Jeff to talk Minnesota United, plus a couple of major discussions around fandom in US Soccer today.
It's finally here. The season. Actual soccer played for actual points. Thank DETHLOON. Jeff and Wes are joined by Alexi Lalas to look at what this weekend and the entire season may have in store for Minnesota United.
The new Loons season is only two weeks away and Wes, Jeff, and Alex start battening down the hatches. They discuss the RSL friendly, recent signings, and go through the good, the bad, and the weird of world soccer.
Minnesota United have played preseason matches we've been able to watch! I repeat: Minnesota United have... ok, never mind. Yes, finally Wes and Jeff can talk about actual soccer played by actual soccering folk. Thank god.
What are the benchmarks for preseason? What would be a successful year for Heath and company? Wes and Jeff talk about this and NASL/MLS futures on this week's pod.
Wes and Jeff are joined by former Loon, Jamie Watson, a man who was a legend for almost a decade before joining Minnesota. They round up the Minnesota United and world soccer news before talking about Watson's new broadcasting career.
With Minnesota United en route to Arizona for the preseason, Jeff and Alex discuss the state of the roster, plus a look at a couple young Americans, as well as answering your Twitter questions.
Music credit to Big Quarters and www.bensound.com.
Wes, Jeff, and Alex look back at Minnesota United FC's first MLS SuperDraft and survey the lay of the land for the club. Plus, Wes and Jeff spoke with Abu Danladi after he was drafted and we get to hear from the club's new #9.
It's MLS SuperDraft time!!!! Jeff and Wes prepare by interviewing two players who will be likely drafted early. First up is Jeremy Ebobisse, former Duke player, who looks to be the likely pick for Minnesota United. Second is Minnesota's own Jackson Yueill. Both are remarkable characters and hot prospects.
Wes and Jeff look at the recent signings for Minnesota: Ramirez, Ibarra, and Demidov. They also preview the upcoming SuperDraft, talk about NASL's suspended sentence, and take twitter questions.
Wes is joined by Alex Schieferdecker and Edu Rosales to talk about the Costa Rican invasion (ok, it's only two players) of Minnesota United. Plus a round-up of the news.
Wes and Jeff have a special sit-down with Minnesotan fullback Eric Miller, who currently plays for the Colorado Rapids to talk about his success in Colorado, his goals, and his celebrity relationship.
Jeff and Wes try to figure out what you can tell about the Atlanta and Minnesota squads that are still incomplete. Can they be compared? They also run down the news, including the potential return of Miguel Ibarra and the imminent return of Christian Ramirez.
Wes and Jeff recorded a special episode after the MLS Expansion Draft and sat down with Director of Player Personnel Amos Magee.
More news comes out about the NASL's future leaving it even further in doubt. Jeff, Jake, and Alex cover this while also looking at whether it's time to worry about Minnesota United's preparedness. Plus: 55.1's mock expansion draft.
News broke early this week that the New York Cosmos--and by extension NASL--is on the precipice. Wes and Jeff look at the news and also continue to preview the expansion options for Minnesota United.
Krautrock revival as Klinnsy gets canned, Pro/Rel goes infographic, and the Loons better love toffee and chocolate, because they’re getting a Heath.
Alex Schieferdecker joins Wes and Jeff to look back at the NASL season and anticipate the upcoming expansion draft. They also talk USMNT losing to Mexico and the fact that PKs are Satan.
Jeff and Wes are joined by American Outlaws MSP member Abe Opoti to talk about the upcoming US v Mexico match in Columbus. They also talk MLS playoffs, MN United signing players, and take twitter questions.
Jeff and Wes are joined by Jon Marthaler to go through the entire Minnesota United FC season and apportion judgment and praise.
Jeff and Wes are joined by MSP American Outlaws President Emily Johns Peterson to talk about the US Women's return to Minnesota. Also, MLS playoffs, MPLS City in the USOC, and they discuss whether or not Minnesota United will be apocalyptically bad in MLS.
The USWNT is coming to Minneapolis on Sunday, but before that Minneapolis City SC are playing in the US Open Cup, and Minnesota United are off to Carolina. It's a crazy busy time of year yet we still talk about Nietzsche.
FiftyFive.One recaps the latest news of Bob Bradley going to Swansea, the big Big Sam to Minnesota rumors, and there is weeping and gnashing of teeth about Minnesota