Extratime

Few saw that one coming: Simon and David get into all of the talking points from the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions League between the Montreal Impact and Club America, joined by Andrew Wiebe, who experienced it in-person in Mexico City. Did Club America just have an off night? And are the Impact automatic favorites for the second leg?

Five national TV matches are the highlight of the MLS schedule, including a UDN Friday night doubleheader, a "must-win" at the Citrus Bowl (7ET, Fox Sports 1), a peculiar Cascadia derby that might mean more to the Timbers (9:30ET, Fox Sports 1) and a heavyweight NY Red Bulls vs. LA Galaxy clash (5ET, ESPN2) that deserves a dose of LA-NY trash talking courtesy of Galaxy right back Dan Gargan.

Thierry Henry makes an appearance in the mailbag, David gets heated about celebratory yellow cards and the guys try to put their finger on US rising star Jordan Morris: Is he Dominic Oduro or Landon Donovan?

Direct download: ETR_Apr23.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:15pm EDT

Will we be looking back on April 22, 2015 as one of the defining moments in MLS history? The Montreal Impact sure hope so as they head to Mexico City for the CONCACAF Champions League final first leg against Mexican champs Club America. Montreal captain Nigel Reo-Coker, who joins the guys from Mexico City, sounds pretty confident -- find out why. Also, Matt Pavlich of Opta Sports tells you all you need to know about the Impact's opponents.

Meanwhile, in MLS play there's another Canadian team making waves as the Vancouver Whitecaps extended their lead atop the league standings. Goalkeeper David Ousted calls in to answer the question on everyone's mind: Are the 'Caps truly MLS Cup contenders? Meanwhile, the Red Bulls continue to make their case in the East, while their intra-city rivals NYCFC miss out on a huge opportunity. Have they become David Villa dependent?

In the mailbag there's more Jordan Morris talk and a Twitter controversy over the weekend has us all wondering: What the hell happened to this country?

Direct download: ETR_Apr20.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:30pm EDT

What crisis? The USMNT wiped out all the doomsday talk of late collapses with another dos a cero against Mexico. Simon and David are joined by US World Cup veteran Herculez Gomez to break down the US win and the hoopla surrounding goal-scoring hero and Seattle Sounders academy product Jordan Morris. Meanwhile, Gomez, who plays for LigaMX side Puebla has a championship game coming up next week.

In MLS league play, a busy MLS Week 7 kicks off Thursday and we highlight all the key match-ups, including the team that has the most riding on the weekend. New England Revolution midfielder Kelyn Rowe joins the show to talk Revs soccer, the upcoming trip to Philadelphia (5ET, ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes) and his USMNT chances. Oh, and Rowe puts the man-bun controversy to bed once and for all.

Plus, there's talk of another World Cup spot for CONCACAF, a new soccer stadium in Minnesota and the US-Canadian MLSer who is approaching a decision: Which way should he go?

Direct download: ETR_Apr16_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:07pm EDT

After six weeks, who's good and who's bad in MLS? Who knows, it's springtime and that means we're still figuring it all out! Andrew, David and Simon are back together, and they break down the weekend that was in MLS. First things first, the Rapids scored. And then they scored again. And again. And again. Plus, what's going on in Portland? What's up with the new goalkeeper in Philadelphia? And should Bill Hamid shoulder the blame for D.C. United's Atlantic Cup draw?

Hamid won't have much time to dwell on it, of course, as he is one of 14 MLSers in USMNT camp for Wednesday's friendly against Mexico. Could William Yarbrough get time in goal after making his debut against Denmark? Perhaps, either way the young dual citizen will be pulled both ways as his country of birth takes on his national team. Yarbrough needs a nickname, help us out ETR faithful!

In the mailbag, where would Jason Kreis and Jurgen Klinsmann fall in their own depth charts? And is this the year of the Canuck?

Direct download: ETR-Apr13.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:37pm EDT

The Montreal Impact almost got CONCACAF'd, but they're through to the Champions League final via guile, timely goals and a little luck. Head coach Frank Klopas joins Andrew and David to re-live the semifinal second leg, a game in which shoes were thrown, players had to fight to get off the field and, somehow, no red cards were shown. Plus, hear why Klopas believes the Impact defied the odds to become the second-ever MLS team in this position.

Meanwhile, over in Portland, Nat Borchers possesses the best beard in the Northern Hemisphere. What inspired it? And is it even all that special in a city like Portland? He also gives his take on Tissue Gate between Caleb Porter and Oscar Pareja and admits he has serious beef with Simon Borg. Over what? You'll have to listen to find out.

Direct download: ETR_Apr8.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:00pm EDT

A wild and crazy MLS weekend has come to a close and the band is finally back together to make sense of all the action. Young Vancouver star Kekuta Manneh stops by to chat about his national team future, the Whitecaps' success so far, and whether or not he’s the best shot in MLS. But before that, the guys have to delve into Tissue Gate, also known as the Caleb Porter-Oscar Pareja WWE show on Saturday night. Things may get messy Simon brought his box of tissues.


While MLS rolls on, the Montreal Impact are down in Costa Rica preparing for one of the biggest games in MLS history. Impact beat writer Olivier Tremblay calls in to give the guys a taste of the environment right now in Alajuela, and the Impact’s chances to move on to the final against a strong, determined Alajuelense side.


In the mailbag, a few rule and philosophy debates spring up. If a referee happens to see a replay and can correct a call, should he? Should 0-0 draws end in no points for either side? And where would Mike Petke fit best if he returns this season?

Direct download: Extratime_radio.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:37pm EDT

Ike Opara has serious bounce. Dunk off two feet, sky above the pack on a set piece hops. The Sporting KC center back joins Andrew and Simon to talk ankle injuries, the best dead-ball defender in MLS, his alternate future as a basketball star and the NCAA Tournament. Plus, find out why his teammates are bothering him about MLS Fantasy.

Ahead of another big MLS weekend, Andrew wonders why the league seems to be stuck in first gear. Of course, Simon disagrees. Taylor Twellman gives his take in the second segment, and chimes in on a USMNT side that has just two wins in 12 games and can't stop leaking late goals. What games are you watching this weekend? Let us know in the comment section below.

In the mailbag, the one and only Victoria Borg joins in to dispel the myth of the scoreboard, the guys debate whether another United belongs in MLS and there's a case of mistaken gender.

Direct download: 150402_ETR_FOR_SITE.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:42pm EDT

Two words: Holy Shipp. In Chicago, that's the rallying cry of an entire fanbase after Homegrown hero Harry Shipp stole the show against Philadelphia to break a three-game losing streak. But what makes Shipp so special? Let him tell you the story, from Fire fandom to Notre Dame to the first team. Now, what about a US national team look?

New York Red Bulls head coach Jesse Marsch made some news this week when he chimed in on the USMNT and Jurgen Klinsmann. The guys clarify those comments and dive into Red Bull land, where Marsch and his new-look squad sit atop the Eastern Conference despite playing only three games in four weeks. Did he see this coming? What makes Dax McCarty the ideal captain? And, most importantly to the South Ward, can he replicate Mike Petke's Supporters' Shield and playoff success?

In the mailbag, the guys break down long throws, the top five stadiums in MLS and darby vs. derby pronunciation.

Direct download: ETR_150330_FOR_SITE_rev-1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:18pm EDT

Minnesota dominates the headlines after Wednesday's MLS expansion announcement, and the guys go straight to the source with Minnesota United FC President Nick Rogers and resident Minnesota superfan/soccer writer Bruce McGuire (DuNord). What's the next stadium step? What about that logo and the loon? Who are their prospective rivals? It's all here.

Of course, there is plenty of US national team and MLS action to discuss as well. Simon claims he wishes he was a Dane (or a Danish?) as the guys search for positives after another late collapse from the Yanks. On the MLS front, it is a packed weekend with a series of high-profile matchups on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.

In the mailbag, the guys consider Xavi’s potential fit in the NYCFC midfield, and look at two of the best attacking acquisitions of the offseason.

Direct download: ETR_Mar26.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:42pm EDT

Week 3 is in the books and there is only one perfect team left standing. Simon and David chat with FC Dallas goal scorer Ryan Hollingshead about his league-leading side, the reasons for his year-long hiatus from the sport and his battle to get back into the pro soccer ranks. Plus the guys break down the opening of Avaya stadium in San Jose, the Cameron Porter injury, and more.


On top of all the MLS action this weekend, the US Soccer Federation dropped not one, not two, but three national team rosters on us. The guys chat with ASN/NY Times writer Brian Sciaretta, who is en route to Denmark, about the USMNT and the U23/U20 squad selections. They go over the surprises, the snubs, and the controversies -- Julian Green is back.


There is also the small matter of a major MLS announcement in Minnesota to look forward to as well as another Colorado Rapids Designated Player on the horizon. Simon and David dust off their crystal ball for segment three: Will Kevin Doyle be the goal-scoring savior the Rapids have been searching for?

Direct download: ETR_Mar23.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:31pm EDT

Week 3 is here (they come thick and fast, right?) and a new soccer-specific stadium is set to open in San Jose. On Sunday, the Earthquakes will welcome Avaya Stadium to the club with a matchup against the Chicago Fire (7 pm ET, Fox Sports 1). Club president Dave Kaval joins the guys to take construction, perks and the future. Oh, and there are plenty of other games to preview as well.

Of course, Montreal made the biggest news of the week, jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the CONCACAF Champions League after a massive home result. Can they finish the job in Costa Rica? Simon isn't so sure. We do know that USL kicks off this weekend, though, and president Jake Edwards joins to preview the biggest season in league history.

Direct download: 150319_ETRFull.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:24am EDT

Week 2 in MLS had everything: incredible goals, unlikely comebacks, late drama and controversial calls. Down a man, Simon and David attempt to digest all the action. The guys discuss their experiences at the NYCFC opener and the team's ability to capture the imagination of NYC in their first week in town. They also break down the incredible drama that unfolded in Portland and Seattle this weekend, before chatting with PK save hero Chris Seitz of 1st-place FC Dallas.


Even with MLS revving along, there's still a massive CCL semifinal first leg coming up on Wednesday. Montreal Impact beat writer Olivier Tremblay stops by to talk about the buzz and expectations in the city ahead of the match, as well as some necessary tactical changes the Impact could be making.


Lastly, the guys react to the Minnesota expansion developments, and discuss the possibility of the AT&T All-Star Game going to a league-only format.

Direct download: ETR_Mar16_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:03pm EDT

Andrew, Simon, and David preview the weekend with the people that matter most: the fans! Third Rail president Chance Michaels calls in from work to serenade Simon with some NYCFC chants and explain what’s on tap for Sunday. The guys also break down the match vs. New England, and give their takes on Portland and Orlando’s center-forward conundrums.

Not to be outdone by their Eastern Conference brethren, a member of Vancouver Whitecaps supporters group “The Southsiders” stops by to preview their matchup. But it’s not just any member, it’s Kristy Olychick, who flipped the bird in Jozy Altidore’s face last weekend, a gesture felt around MLS. The guys finish up by breaking down the rest of the weekend’s games, then debate who got the toughest Gold Cup group.

In the mailbag, the legal battle begins as an ETR fan/attorney chimes in about Simon’s copyright claim to the “ScoreBorg” (not like it’s every going to happen anyway). Finally, the guys consider what kind of ETR memorabilia might take the marketplace by storm.

Direct download: ETR_Mar12.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:46pm EDT

There was ecstasy (and some pain) across the US and Canada this weekend. Why? Because MLS is back. So whether you’re feeling up or down about your club's 2015 fate after a jam-packed slate of games, Andrew, Simon, and David are ready to break it all down. The guys start off with the historic expansion derby in front of 62,000 fans in Orlando, and president and part owner Phil Rawlins (interview starts at 8:01 mark) stops by to discuss his emotions from Sunday, and the club's plans for major crowds.

Of course, we have discuss the return of Seattle’s two-headed monster as well as Matt Besler’s best Aurelin Collin impersonation. Plus, questions arise about the career path of budding American star Jose Villarreal, and Simon makes a bold claim about the on-field production of Mix Diskerud’s hair this season. And obviously there's a discussion to be had about Toronto FC following their impressive opening day victory in Vancouver.

In the mailbag, the debate heats up about whether fans can feel good about selecting rival players for their fantasy teams. Do you want to be loyal, or a winner? One listener also wants to know who the “evil empire” of MLS is (vote in the poll to the right), and the guys give their take on which coaches are under the microscope this season.

Direct download: ETR_Mar9.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:45pm EDT

The season is here and it’s impossible not to feel the excitement. After an offseason of rumors, drafts and scuttlebutt, it’s game time and Andrew, Simon, and David leave no stone unturned while breaking down EVERY opening weekend matchup. All the top story lines are covered: Kaka vs. Villa, Canada’s East and West Coasts go at it, the LA Galaxy move on without Landon, and so much more. Also, start getting used to the new match schedule because Friday and Sunday nights are locked in for MLS.

In the mailbag, Simon forces the guys to nail down their MLS Cup and MVP picks. There are a few surprises there, and you’re sure to be shocked by what bodily fluid one of our fans thinks Simon is picking for the 2015 Landon Donovan MVP. Go ahead, give us your MLS Cup prediction in the poll!

Don't forget to join the ETR fantasy league (click here to join the league or use code 1183-524), and send your Week 1 comments for discussion on Monday's show.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Mar5.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:16pm EDT

AGAINST ALL ODDS
 
One final preseason matchday remains on Saturday and then all eyes turn toward the start of the 2015 regular season on Friday, March 6. And there is already some big news that impacts that first match between the LA Galaxy and Chicago Fire (10 pm ET, UniMas). David and Simon sink their teeth into that as well as the Montreal Impact's shocking result in the Champions League. Meanwhile, the expansion teams continue to grab headlines and a rivalry ranking survey has supporters talking. What will it take for NYCFC vs. RBNY to be as big as RBNY vs. DC?

On the international front, there's a big meeting coming up involving the officials who establish the rules of the game around the world. One of the proposals they're considering is a fourth sub in extratime. But does the idea even make sense? We spoke to a professor who's an expert on the substitution rule and authored a research paper on the topic: Villanova professor and an analytics consultant for Toronto FC, Bret Myers (READ HIS PAPER HERE).

It's the second straight show with a professor dropping soccer knowledge on the show and our mailbag revisits the Cristiano Ronaldo course being offered at the University of British Columbia. We're still taking suggestions on the ExtraTime Fantasy league prize (join at 1183-524) and a medical professional shares a theory on what may have led to Elvis Presley's passing.

 

Direct download: ETR_Feb26.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:21pm EDT

The MLS preseason has never offered a weekend richer in talking points. We delve into a few of the meatier topics on this episode: Should MLS rivals face off this close to the regular season (Portland vs. Vancouver)? Should teams that play on opening weekend meet two weeks before, even in an exhibition (NYCFC vs. Orlando City)? Should rookies have to put up with innocent rites of initiation (Whitecaps)? And should LA Galaxy captain Robbie Keane have to pass the armband on to Steven Gerrard when he joins the team in the summer? 

We move on to the matches that count for real in segment two and the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals which will see two MLS sides in action. Pachuca and Alajuelense expert Eddie Mendez gives you the lowdown on the teams that stand in the way of a potential all-MLS semifinal between Montreal and DC United. Also, is there less buzz around CCL compared to years past? If so, is it justified?  

No mailbag today, but we replace it with a topic of discussion most soccer avids will find fascinating: a college course on the topic of Cristiano Ronaldo. We talk to University of British Columbia Professor Luis Aguiar, who came up with the idea. Turns out there's a lot more to Cristiano if you can get past the hair gel and self-absorbed goal celebrations.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Feb23.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:25pm EDT

Who won and who lost the MLS offseason? Did your team’s moves come out on top or has your club just not done enough. One of the top pickups of the offseason isn’t an MLS newbies, it is league veteran Roger Espinoza. He stops by to discuss his return to Kansas City, wedding gifts for Dom Dwyer, and his time in England. 

 In the second segment the guys jump into their time machine as they begin to worry about how the 2022 winter World Cup will affect the MLS season. What would you do to fit the season in? And is a 48-team World Cup in two different countries in the cards?

 

 In the mailbag we get a chance to hear who goes on your US Soccer “Mount Rushmore” or if there should even be one. Plus the guys dole out advice to their friend on who he should bring with him to the USA-Mexico friendly. And to close out Simon gets your mouth drooling with his favorite Maltese delicacies (hint: Bugs Bunny won’t be a fan.)

 

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Feb12_seg3_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:33pm EDT

The season is rapidly approaching, but first come the preseason tournaments. Andrew is headed to Charleston. Where is the best February vacation for MLS fans? And what should folks be looking for at home? Expect an improvement in Colorado. That's based on the guys' conversation with Rapids Sporting Director Padraig Smith, who is at the forefront of the performance analytics movement.

In the second segment, the USMNT and USSF get the spotlight. First, after the Hall of Fame inductions, who would go on your American soccer Mount Rushmore. Then, are you seriously still talking about fitness? Yep, as Jurgen Klinsmann "clarified" things on Monday. Finally, Julian Green finds himself in a tough situation. That can't be good.

We finish off with the mailbag, in which Simon goes off the rails, David gets a shot at running things and Andrew doles out advice to yet more fans with identity issues.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Feb17.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:48pm EDT

It’s expansion fever on the latest edition hosted by Greg Lalas subbing in for Andrew, who caught more than just a fever. The guys glow about NYCFC’s Barcelona-esqe preseason opener and then talk to Orlando City midfielder Amobi Okugo, who takes us into Kaka-mania, the OCSC locker and more. Plus there’s Landon Donovan’s engagement and Toronto FC’s “armband-gate.”

 

In the second segment it’s all about FIFA and the US national team. There’s another FIFA controversy and this time it involves the breaking news about the 2026 World Cup TV rights and the Under-20 World Cup draw, as the US learned its opponents. Also would Jurgen Klinsmann leave the USA national team for the Aston Villa job?

 

We finish off with the mailbag and a dramatic turn of events: Simon is back in the listeners’ good graces. And this time it’s Greg’s turn to give supporting advance to conflicted supporters.

 

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

 

Direct download: ETR_Feb12_mls.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:14pm EDT

January camp is over, but that doesn't mean we're done talking about it. This time, though, the discussion centers around a 2-0 victory against Panama that saw Gyasi Zardes prove he belongs, Clint Dempsey do his thing and Michael Bradley notch an olimpico. What you really want to know is what Simon thinks of Miguel Ibarra's performance, and ETR's resident hot-take expert doesn't disappoint.

In the second segment, the spotlight turns to MLS, where injuries and signings stole the headlines on Monday. Why is Jermaine Jones having surgery? What's wrong with Eddie Johnson? Who is this centerback the Union just signed? Finally, San Jose boss Dominic Kinnear joins the guys to talk homecomings, DPs and Jurgen Klinsmann.

In the mailbag, listeners wonder if Simon soiled himself making noises on the last show, and the conversation, predictably, turns to jam's place in history.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_FEB9.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:31pm EDT

With MLS still getting into the swing of things, Jurgen Klinsmann and the US national team are stealing all the headlines as the Americans winless streak starts to get attention. Klinsmann says fitness is to blame for a 3-2 loss against Chile, but what about the game before that? The guys dig and talk it through. Could the USMNT boss' job be in trouble if the slide continues? Opinions are split.

In the second segment, it's all MLS all the time. In Toronto, Giovinco arrived at the airport to a massive welcome party? When has that happened before? And, more importantly, will he finish the 2015 season as the league's biggest star? Or will Kaka take that title? Or David Villa? Or Steven Gerrard? Maybe Frank Lampard? You get the picture. Plus, which MLS rumors are bogus and which have a grain of truth?

In the mailbag, the guys decide a US Open Cup bracket has to go on the to-do list, wonder about the Rapids' new signings and ponder Julian Green's future career in MLS.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Feb5.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:33pm EDT

The big news in MLS on Monday revolved around Designated Players, those coming and going. Tim Cahill is gone after agreeing to terminate his contract with the Red Bulls. What will his MLS legacy be? Giovinco, meanwhile, is coming, leaving Juventus early to get his Toronto FC career started ASAP. Farther north, Impact boss Frank Klopas is looking for a striker of his own. Will it be a DP? Can he lead Montreal to a Liga MX upset in CCL?

In the second segment, Columbus Crew SC winger Justin Meram joins the guys to tell stories from the Asian Cup. Iraq and Meram made it to the semifinals before bowing out, but they got the rockstar treatment all tournament from more than a million Iraqi fans in Australia. What's next for Meram at the international level? What did he take away from the whirlwind experience?

In the mailbag, a listener revisits the Ronaldinho conundrum as the magic one wears out his welcome at Queretaro and Simon gets called a hypocrite. You'll have to listen to find out how he reacted.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Feb2_MLS.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:04pm EDT

Look, a real life guest! Real Salt Lake technical director Craig Waibel stops by the studio in the second segment to talk about his transition from rugged defender to front-office executive.
 
First, though, the guys dissect the blockbuster trade between Montreal and New York with former part-time ETR host (and current full-time New York Red Bulls head coach) Jesse Marsch. They also break down the other moves in MLS circles and wonder whether Juan Agudelo makes the New England Revolution preseason MLS Cup favorites.

 

In the second segment, the guys react to the USA-Chile match. Does the 3-5-2 experiment have a future? They also touch on Bobby Wood’s future and Jozy Altidore's MLS potential. Then Craig Waibel braves a face-to-face with Andrew, Simon and David to discuss his new role, RSL’s roster, Real Monarchs and the nobility of going with a shaved-head look.

 

In the mailbag, Gassman makes an appeal for help recording the number of soccer matches he watches in a year, Simon demands David stop making demands and a listener shares important baked-bean safety procedures.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio.

Direct download: ETR_Jan29.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:30pm EDT

The MLS offseason isn't going to slow down for a little snow at the league office, and the guys talk Tim Cahill, Laurent Ciman's last moments with Standard Liege, Toronto FC and Simon Borg survival techniques before the Chicago Fire's newest DP, Shaun Maloney, joins following his first-ever training session with the club.

In the second segment, it's all United States all the time. First, the U-20s bucked a terrible start at the CONCACAF U-20 Championships to qualify for the World Cup. Who might have a senior team career in front of them? And speaking of the senior team, who should start against Chile? Will Jurgen Klinsmann play a 3-5-2?

In the mailbag, a Minnesota for MLS supporter chimes in, club loyalties are debated and Simon's role model is honored ... without Borg in attendance.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan26.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:16pm EDT

First things first, the guys mourn the departure of former host and friend Nick Firchau. Then Alexi Lalas joins the crew to talk US U-20s, whose World Cup quest is still alive, and gamesmanship in soccer in the wake of the controversy surrounding the New England Patriots. Is there a soccer equivalent?

In the second segment, Portland owner Merritt Paulson joins to offer his thoughts on the direction of the league, big-money DPs and USL PRO's impact on Portland soccer. Find out why he says marketing has nothing to do with the Timbers' transfer business.

In the mailbag, the Canada question is resolved and listeners wonder whether having Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore in Toronto might create Reds fans south of the border.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan22.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:07pm EDT

Tuesday ETRs only come around once in awhile, and this one is special for all the right reasons. First, Kurt Larson of the Toronto Sun joins to talk Toronto FC, who signed Jozy Altidore and Giovinco since the last time the guys gathered around the microphone. That's ... bloody big news, but not a bloody big deal this time around. But is it a good thing for MLS? Will Toronto FC actually make the playoffs?

Altidore is on his way to Southern California, where the US national team is gathered for January camp. It's a welcome break from club life for Bobby Wood. Hear the 1860 Munich man describe how he got frozen out of the club. Could MLS be an option? Sure, says Wood. He just wants to enjoy the game again.

In the mailbag, the guys find out what "Blond Door" is and run through reaction from Red Bulls fans who attended the infamous town hall.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan20.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:09pm EDT

It was a day of new beginnings in Philadelphia on Thursday as the MLS SuperDraft made its yearly splash. Andrew, Simon and David were on the ground to give you the complete wrap from the draft, with exclusive audio from proceedings that saw Canuck U-20 Cyle Larin taken first overall, Cristian Roldan fall down the board and Marcelo Sarvas traded.

Of course, in Toronto, big news was going down with Jozy Altidore and Jermain Defoe. It wasn't pegged as a bloody big deal, rather a shrewd move to replace one unhappy striker with a younger, North American one. But should US fans be unhappy the Yanks biggest stars are landing in the #WeTheNorth? The guys talk that and Sasha Kljestan, who appears headed for LA.

In the mailbag, it's clear USL PRO played a large role in Thursday's SuperDraft proceedings. What's next? Also, the guys give Mix Diskerud advice on where to live and admire Pablo Mastroeni's incredible mustache.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Audio.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

The guys start with the news of the day in the soccer world. Cristiano Ronaldo won the Ballon d'Or, but how did Americans vote? Who is the media member who get the honor alongside Clint Dempsey and Jurgen Klinsmann? That'd be Soccer America's Paul Kennedy, who joins to explain how got that honor and what goes into the vote.

Then, with the MLS SuperDraft looming on Thursday (Live show on MLSsoccer.com and Sirius XM FC), MLSsoccer.com's own Jonathan Yardley calls in from South Florida where the MLS Combine is in full swing. See what's shaking on the ground and who Yardley thinks will go in the top three spots.

In the second segment, the guys turn to the US national team, specifically the U-20s frustrating CONCACAF U-20 Championship start and Klinsmann's January camp decisions. What's wrong with US youth teams? What's up the Olympic and first-team roster mix in Carson?

In the mailbag, Red Bulls fans get their platform after Friday's special with New York sporting director Ali Curtis. See what they had to say...

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan12_2015.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:44pm EDT

In a special edition of ETR, Red Bulls' sporting director Ali Curtis takes a break from MLS Combine scouting to explain all the moving and shaking in his first two weeks on the job. What happened to Mike Petke? What’s next for the club? DPs? Cahill? Jozy? Sasha?

Direct download: ETR_AliCurtis.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:30pm EDT

Simon is back to talk all things New York Red Bulls after a franchise-changing decision to let head coach Mike Petke go. Jesse Marsch is in and the guys think that could work ... but will the fans get on board with the new regime? Plus, could Jozy Altidore be headed to New York? Or maybe Toronto? What about Portland? ESPN's Taylor Twellman gives his thoughts as well and explains why this ETR hit is a little bit different than the rest of them.

That might have been the big news, but there was plenty more filling in the rest of the cracks in MLS. The schedule is out, Generation adidas signings have been announced ahead of the Combine, Garth Lagerwey is on the move, Maurice Edu might have sealed a Union deal, Liam Ridgewell is headed to Wigan and Bakary Soumare dropped a Fire bomb on Chicago.

In the mailbag, one listener makes his opinion clear when it comes to Frank Lampard's delayed arrival, Gedion Zelalem's "Americaness" is confirmed (as if it needed to be) and the guys wonder if the ScoreBorg actually exists.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan8_2015.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:18pm EDT

The guys are back in the studio after a long break. Well, everyone but Simon Borg, who calls in to discuss the Frank Lampard situation, Steven Gerrard news and Doniel Henry's transfer to the Premier League. Where is Simon? You'll have to listen to find out.

Then listen as Arsenal scout Danny Karbassiyoon explains how he discovered Gedion Zelalem in his own backyard, what kind of player the USMNT might have on its hands and how we should all approach the growing hype around the teenage phenom.

Finally, the mailbag starts with Atlanta name ideas then turns into a brainstorming session for Andrew's signature closing line. Needless to say, over and out has to go.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Jan5_2015.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:55pm EDT

We wouldn't dream of leaving you hanging during the holidays, so ETR set about creating four shows to get everyone through the end of 2014.

Dec. 22: Referees (PRO's GM Peter Walton and Chris Penso)

Dec. 25: Americans Abroad (Alejandro Bedoya, Herediano owner David Patey, Kabul Premier League vet Nicholas Pugliese)

Dec. 29: Expansion (Atlanta MLS president Darren Eales, LAFC president and co-owner Tom Penn)

Jan. 1: ETR Book Club (The Numbers Game with author David Sally)

In this episode, the guys revive the ETR Book Club by reviewing The Numbers Game: Why Everything You Know About Soccer Is Wrong by Chris Anderson and David Sally.

Sally joins to talk about the thought process behind the book, the progress in the field since and where advanced statistics in soccer go from here. Meanwhile, Opta analyst Devin Pleuler and the Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle fill in for Simon for a roundtable on the state of stats in soccer.

Finally, the guys dip into the mailbag to see what the listeners thought of the book. Tweet or email with your suggestion for our next ETR Book Club!

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Bookclub_numbers_gmae.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am EDT

We wouldn't dream of leaving you hanging during the holidays, so ETR set about creating four shows to get everyone through the end of 2014.

Dec. 22: Referees (PRO's GM Peter Walton and Chris Penso)

Dec. 25: Americans Abroad (Alejandro Bedoya, Herediano owner David Patey, Kabul Premier League vet NicholasPugliese)

Dec. 29: Expansion (Atlanta MLS president Darren Eales, LAFC president and co-owner Tom Penn)

Jan. 1: ETR Book Club (The Numbers Game with author David Sally)

In this episode, the guys talk to MLS Atlanta president and former Tottenham Hotspur executive Darren Eales about his time in college soccer, experience in the EPL, arrival in MLS and the league's future in the South.

Atlanta will be joined by LAFC in 2017, and president and co-owner Tom Penn is already hard at work to make sure everything goes smoothly. First things first, a name, a logo and a stadium.

Finally, in a special expansion mailbag, Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle joins to respond to fan comments and questions.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Expansion.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

We wouldn't dream of leaving you hanging during the holidays, so ETR set about creating four shows to get everyone through the end of 2014.

Dec. 22: Referees (PRO's GM Peter Walton and Chris Penso)

Dec. 25: Americans Abroad (Alejandro Bedoya, Herediano owner David Patey, Kabul Premier League vet NicholasPugliese)

Dec. 29: Expansion (Atlanta MLS president Darren Earles, LAFC president and co-owner Tom Penn)

Jan. 1: ETR Book Club (The Numbers Game with author David Sally)

In this episode, US national team star Alejandro Bedoya checks in from Nantes in France to talk lifestyle, his path to Europe, rude shopkeepers and his current contract situation.

Next Herediano's American owner David Patey explains how he accidentally came to be a big wig celebrity in Costa Rican soccer.

Finally, Kabul Premier League vet Nicholas Pugliese joins to discuss his time as the first American to play professionally in Afghanistan.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Yanks_Abroad.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:57pm EDT

We wouldn't dream of leaving you hanging during the holidays, so the boys at ETR set about creating four shows to get everyone through the end of 2014.

Dec. 22: Referees (PRO's GM Peter Walton and Chris Penso)

Dec. 25: Americans Abroad (Alejandro Bedoya, Herediano owner David Patey, Kabul Premier League vet Nicholas Pugliese)

Dec. 29: Expansion (Atlanta MLS president Darren Earles, LAFC president and co-owner Tom Penn)

Jan. 1: ETR Book Club (The Numbers Game with author David Sally)

In this episode, PRO GM Peter Walton reviews the year in MLS refereeing in 2014 and what is to come in 2015. He says more than 90 percent of the calls were correct this year, and explains how they aim to improve the process even more.

Referee Chris Penso then joins the guys to talk about what he gave up to pick up the whistle full time, and what it was like refereeing the inaugural Hero Indian Super League match.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Ref_ETR.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:22am EDT

Another draft is in the books as Re-Entry Stage 2 came and went on Thursday. Find out who was picked and what it all means in the grand scheme of the MLS offseason. Erick Torres wasn't eligible for the Dispersal Draft (all hail MLS roster mechanisms), but it seems his future is close to being resolved. Where will he go? Will it be MLS? Will Jermain Defoe join him on North American shores? Plus, what does ETR have in the works for the rest of December?

Finally is an understatement. The vote is done, and it's unanimous. D.C. United are getting a stadium in the District. General managing partner and co-owner Jason Levien joins Andrew and David to describe the process, what it was like to be the point man on such a high-stakes project and what comes next. Stadium design? Timeline? You'll want to tune in for that.

In the mailbag, the guys run over Simon's New Year's resolutions sans Mr. Borg, talk Las Vegas expansion and debate East and West Coast merits.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Dec18.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:50pm EDT

If you watched the College Cup, you probably wondered about the quality of soccer being played and the bus Virginia parked in front of their own goal. If you didn't watch, you probably heard all about it on Twitter. So what's more important? Winning ugly or at least trying to play? Meanwhile, another trophy was lifted in Liga MX, Frank Lampard's NYCFC fate got murkier, Steven Gerrard was linked with the Red Bulls and Brek Shea seems to be on his way to Orlando. Oh, and what do we make of this?

The Fire aren't just being linked with Designated Players, they're signing them. Kennedy Igboananike is already in the bag, and there might be a Ghanaian striker on the way as well. No matter how you twist it, Frank Yallop is making moves. He gives the guys the lowdown on everything going down in the Windy City, plus elaborates on Harry Shipp's future.

In the mailbag, Simon keeps making excuses about the ScoreBorg, the guys wonder which MLSers would make the best managers, the Revs empty forward stable is addressed and David hints at a life-changing holiday season.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Dec14.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:29pm EDT

You didn't think you were going to get a break did you? Maybe a quick breather before the offseason consumed all your available time and energy? No such luck for MLS fans, as the minute MLS Cup was done and dusted, players started moving all over the place. The guys break down the Expansion Draft then talk strategy with Orlando City SC coach Adrian Heath.

The Dynamo were a brand new franchise at one point, and now they have just their second-ever head coach in former Bolton and Burnley boss Owen Coyle. Hear why he's in Houston, how his team will play and how a Scotsman plans on dealing with the summer heat.

In the mailbag, Simon's favorite Christmas tradition, the most underrated player in MLS Cup and CONCACAF camp for D.C. United.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Dec11.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:16pm EDT

Dynasty. There's no arguing it now. The LA Galaxy made it three MLS Cup titles in four years on Sunday in dramatic fashion, MLS Volkswagen MVP Robbie Keane doing the extra-time honors against the luckless Revs, now five-time runners-up in the big game. In the aftermath, Andrew is joined by the March to the Match guys as they wrap up the 19th season in MLS and look ahead.

Speaking of looking ahead, the half-day trade window didn't disappoint. There would be no sleepy Monday as Dave and Simon break down all the trades, signings and back-and-forth in the aftermath of MLS Cup (Borchers to Portland, Collin and Okugo to Orlando, NYCFC wheeling and dealing). Oh, and expansion lists are out as well, so there's that to ponder.

 

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday

Direct download: ETR_Dec8.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:40am EDT

It's here...almost. The crew (Nick, Simon and Andrew) are on the ground in LA, and it's like old times as MLS Cup fever ramps up. Who needs the Cup most? Are LA really the favorites? What about the Revs losing legacy in the big game? Your full preview is here.

The #FirstToFive campaign applies to both teams, only LA are going for wins and New England and trying to avoid a record fifth MLS Cup loss. Revs color commentator Paul Mariner was around for three of them, and he joins the show to break down this team and the wave of momentum they're riding. Plus, the guys run the rule over the ins and outs of the MLS award season.

Finally, Simon calls for tears in Carson and details the last time he cried about sports, the guys wonder who would show up to Jermaine Jones' after party and christen the Revs "career killers."

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Dec4.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:56pm EDT

Better lock in those plane tickets and hotels now. MLS Cup is back in Los Angeles, with the Galaxy hosting a New England Revolution side that snuck past Thierry Henry and the Red Bulls. More on Henry later. The guys are joined by LA head coach Bruce Arena, who breaks down how his team moved on despite losing in Seattle, points out the baby boom going on in the Galaxy locker room and gives his take on the away-goals rule.

At Gillette, meanwhile, Henry couldn't quite inspire New York, and Charlie Davies got the job done for the Revs. On the other end of the field, Bobby Shuttleworth put in his normal shift in goal. How did he get there though? Take a listen as Shuttleworth discusses his rise to the No. 1 job, that rough summer stretch and his infamous haircut.

Finally, what did Henry mean to MLS on the day he announced his Red Bulls days are over? Who should the fourth MLS team in CCL be? And is it good news for New England that the guys all picked LA to win the title?

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Dec1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:32pm EDT

It's the best Thanksgiving weekend an MLS fan could ever want: a Conference Championship second leg on Saturday and another on Sunday to cap off the long holiday weekend. We get you set for both of them starting with the Seattle Sounders vs. LA Galaxy saga in the West which comes to a close on Sunday night. According to Mr. Sounder, Zach Scott, it's the biggest match in club history. 
 
And while the Western series still rests on a knife's edge, the Eastern Conference Championship is decidedly tilted toward the New England Revolution, who are at home with two away goals to defend vs. New York Red Bulls. Revs right back Andrew Farrell feels like this is his team's big chance to finally get their due on the national stage.
 
Also, what Landon Donovan will we witness in what may be his last game ever? Who should the Red Bulls start in place of Bradley Wright-Phillips: Saer Sene or Tim Cahill? And is Austin the new Columbus? Lastly, if you listen to ExtraTime Radio in your car, one listener shares a cautionary tale in the mailbag.

 

Direct download: ETR_Nov27.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:07pm EDT

There are just three games left in the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, and the guys set the stage for the second legs by breaking down the Eastern and Western Conference Championship matches on Sunday? Why are the Revs in the drivers seat? Why didn't Mike Petke tell his guys about their impending suspensions? Are the Sounders playing scared? Did LA do enough? It's all here.

The Revs' Teal Bunbury, who dropped a goal and beautiful dime on the Red Bulls, calls in to talk day-after activities (hint: brekkie), the best left-footed goal he's ever scored, the Harlem Shake, banter with Jermaine Jones and advice for Tesho Akindele.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Oct24.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00pm EDT

It's all MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, all the time on ETR. First, the guys run the rule over #NYvNE. Who is more likely to fall off, Bradley Wright-Phillips or Lee Nguyen? Will New England sit back? If they do, can New York punish them and keep Thierry Henry off the field for the second leg? Red Bulls winger Lloyd Sam joins the guys to discuss.

In the second segment, the Galaxy's Omar Gonzalez helps the guys preview a clash between the top two regular-season teams in MLS in LA and Seattle. Who's firepower will come through when it matters? Will the Sounders keep it conservative? What happens if Ozzie Alonso is out?

In the mailbag, the USMNT's struggles are examined and the guys' Dispersal Draft prediction record is, of course, dismal.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Nov20.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:40pm EDT

Just six days left until the the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, are back with a vengeance. Until then, it's all about the US national team. First, the guys run the rule over another disappointing result, this time a 2-1 defeat to Colombia at Craven Cottage. Should US fans be worried? What do we need to see again Ireland to get the pep back in USMNT fans' step.

Then the guys chat with a friend of the show in Bob Bradley, who just finished a banner season at Stabæk. Although, wouldn't you know it, Bradley sees room for growth. He's also face with a decision of his own, as suitors come for the players and the coach who made the Norwegian mites tick.

In the mailbag, New York City FC and New York Red Bulls fans bring their grievances to the table, and Rudy from Orlando claims Ronaldinho as his own.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ETR_Nov17.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:47pm EDT

With the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, on hiatus for a week, the guys turn their attention to the international break. That means US national team action, this time in London against Colombia on Friday. The guys chat with one of the roster's youngest stars in Rubio Rubin, who discusses his choice to represent the US over Mexico and Guatemala and even sings a little ditty.

On Thursday, New York City FC unveiled their home jersey, and Sporting Director Claudio Reyna joined the show to talk about the event and building a roster of guys to actually wear the thing. Find out what he had to say about the Frank Lampard situation, a third DP, scouting focuses and the team's future. MLS fans from all markets will want to listen closely to what their newest competitor has planned.

Beard maintenance starts the mailbag, then the guys counsel an MIT professor who's thinking about riding to the game with the enemy and Simon describes the treat that defined his childhood in Malta.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Rubio_Rubin_FC_Utrecht_Claudio_Reyna_New_York_City_FC.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

It's down to four in the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T. Well, almost. Three are locked in and, as of taping on Monday, Seattle and Dallas were set to battle it out for the final stop. Because of that, the guys start the show with a fake recap of the match, and wouldn't you know it Simon goes against the grain.

After that little excercise, the guys turn their focus to the LA Galaxy's beatdown of Real Salt Lake. Tony Beltran says Landon Donovan "battered" him in recording just the third hat-trick in playoff history. New England battered Columbus on the scoresheet, too, although one of the ETR crew says they pretty much played perfectly.

Meanwhile, in DC, Red Bulls fans didn't exist because nobody saw them on TV. They're still alive, though. Stick around for USMNT and more Lee Nguyen talk as well as Dispersal Draft chatter in the second segment.

In the mailbag, donuts are debated and the guys assure everyone out there that it's nothing but love in the studio.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Playoffganza_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Four games to decide which four teams will see their MLS Cup dreams live on as the MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, ramp up. The guys start by breaking down #DCvNY with the help of Bobby Boswell. He says D.C. United were angry at themselves after that 2-0 defeat at Red Bull Arena in the first leg. Now can they reverse it at home with 1,000-plus New York supporters headed south to RFK? And what about Columbus? Do they stand a chance at Gillette Stadium?

Out West, Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy have yet another playoff battle to settle at StubHub Center. Will we see the Robbie Keane who is a favorite to win MVP or the one who was nowhere to be found in Leg 1? And what about Seattle? They've got to get by Dallas to set up a fairytale Western Conference semifinal.

In the mailbag, Simon gives apple-picking advice, and Andrew's No. 1 fan takes one of the guys to task and praises another. It won't be who you think.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio__Bobby_Boswell_D.C._United_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

The MLS Cup Playoffs, presented by AT&T, are in full swing, so let's just get into it. But first the guys turn their attention to the away-goals rule. Good? Bad? Indifferent? All of the above.

Out West, it remains tight, with two draws in the opening conference semifinals. Seattle looks to be in position to advance at home, while neither LA or Real Salt Lake are in the drivers seat. But why was the game in Dallas ugly? Why couldn't RSL beat Jaime Penedo? Why is Simon eating an apple?

The Eastern Conference is a little clearer, with New England snatching four away goals and New York smacking D.C. United at home to send the series back to RFK Stadium. Peguy Luyindula is the man of the hour for the Red Bulls, and he joins to talk life in Brooklyn, arguing with Thierry Henry and his role on a team that's all of a sudden rolling at the right time.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Peguy_Luyindula_New_York_Red_Bulls.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

There's one Knockout Round game left, but the two-legged postseason fun starts this weekend with the conference semifinals. The guys start off with some Los Angeles FC news and some disagreement about the penalty call that sent Dallas through on Wednesday before turning to the Western Conference's bracket. Can LA get a result at Rio Tinto? Will Mauro Diaz start against Seattle?

It's just as tough out East, with Columbus and New England a battle of purveyors of the beautiful game. Lee Nguyen joins the guys to run the rule over his own incredible season, talks Jermaine Jones' fashion sense and admits he's not sure what the future holds when it comes to international soccer. Plus, who would D.C. United rather face between Sporting KC and New York? And is the ETR curse in effect?

Finally, Andrew wonders how MLS fans might feel if their team reached the brink of a title only to fall short, a la the Royals, and Simon lays out the mechanics of curses.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio_Lee_Nguyen_New_England_Revolution.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

A Supporters' Shield has been decided. The AT&T MLS Playoffs are set. The Knockout Round looms. ExtraTime Radio has everything you need to know, including news that Chivas USA is ceasing operations with a new team set to begin play in Los Angeles in 2017.

It all starts Wednesday, when Vancouver visit Dallas, and there are some big questions for the 'Caps' Carl Robinson. First, who starts at right back? Second, can the Canadians slow down FC Dallas' set-piece barrage? The guys all agree on a prediction, is that bad news?

The Eastern Conference is a rematch of Sunday night's regular-season finale. The New York Red Bulls are rolling on the back of Bradley Wright-Phillips, who tied the MLS single season scoring record against Kansas City. Sporting KC, meanwhile, are tired. Dog tired. Manager Peter Vermes joins the guys to talk shop, his trip home to New Jersey and offseason movement.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Peter_Vermes_Sporting_Kansas_City.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

It's Round 33 and that means there's just 90 minutes left take care of any final business before the playoffs begin in earnest. Some teams have more to tend to than others, and the guys start their wide-ranging discussion with the Supporters' Shield matchup going down in Seattle between the Sounders and Galaxy. Whoever comes out on top of that one will face Portland or Vancouver. Will ETR's prediction from a few weeks ago come true? What about all that crazy seeding out East?

We'll have to wait to see how it all turns out, but first we go to ETR fantasy land to create our own playoff brackets based on pure entertainment value. What would you want to see? And how would you prepare MLS teams and future MLS players for the wiles of CONCACAF Champions League? We take a look at the lay of the land with one final CCL group game to go and propose our own CONCACAF camp to get North America's players ready to succeed in the region.

Finally, Sabrina the Teenage Witch makes one final appearance, and the guys debate Landon Donovan's replacement with the Galaxy.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_The_Big_One.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

The Columbus Crew are the sensation of the 2014 MLS season and their winger Ethan Finlay is arguably the revelation of the year. Coming off a playoff clinching weekend, we get to know the ex-college superstar who's finally earning praise from the likes of Thierry Henry after two tough seasons to start his pro career. Which national team will he represent -- USA or Canada? And what's with his fascination with The Settlers of Catan?

The other big storylines from the weekend involve the battle for the 5th spot in the West -- Vancouver vs. Portland. Were the Timbers just unlucky? Should the Whitecaps have pushed harder in San Jose? And the Showdown for the Shield goes down to the final weekend: Is Saturday's match vs. LA Galaxy truly the biggest game in Seattle Sounders history?

Plus, which artist do you want to send you off into the sunset at your retirement party? Would Toronto FC ever trade Michael Bradley? And is there a scenario where New England's Lee Nguyen can actually win the MVP award?

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!


Andrew was under a Royals' World Series rock on Wednesday, so the guys walk him through MLS Commissioner Don Garber's response to recent comments by US national team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann concerning the league. Everyone's got an opinion. Chime in with yours via email.

It's a massive weekend in MLS, and Portland's playoff lives are on the line with Real Salt Lake in town on Friday. Meanwhile, Sunday should be spent in front of the TV if you're an MLS fan. The New York Red Bulls are battling for position, and Mike Petke joins the guys to discuss Thierry Henry's future, BWP for MVP and his Twitter habits.

In the mailbag, we discuss Dominic Kinnear's future and why it worked out for everyone involved, Simon defends Dominic Oduro and we play some MLS-style NBA Jam.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Mike_Petke_New_York_Red_Bulls.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

First things first, the guys revisit Landon Donovan's testimonial match on Friday, a 1-1 draw against Ecuador in which the post robbed the USMNT legend of a Derek Jeter-esque moment. But did he cry? Simon says no, while Andrew and David contend he's got more humble pie in his future. LD aside, who looked good? Did the ETR curse strike Joe Gyau? What will the team look like against Honduras with all the big boys called up?

Meanwhile, in MLS, the playoff races have come down to two spots. In the East, Toronto has all but waved the white flag. In the West, it comes down to Cascadia Cup winner Vancouver and Portland. One has a much easier schedule than the other. The Supporters' Shield still comes down to LA and Seattle with a home-and-home series left to finish the regular season.

The Revs sealed their place, and Charlie Davies has been crucial to their current form. On the five-year anniversary of the car accident that threatened his life and career, Davies joins the guys to reflect and look ahead. Ever positive, he says the USMNT isn't out of the question.

In the mailbag, we wonder who the listeners might want as guests, where MLS Cup would be hosted in a perfect world and mull a time capsule to test our ability to predict the future.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Charlie_Davies_NE_Revolution.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

With Landon Donovan playing his final game for the USMNT, it's time to start looking ahead to which up-and-comer will take his mantle. Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore will surely carry the torch in the short-term, but which youngster is set to be the next Donovan? Why not winger Joe Gyau, who's making headway at one of the biggest clubs in the world? He tells his story on the show.

From one Black-and-Gold team (Borussia Dortmund) to another one stateside. The Columbus Crew -- rather, Columbus Crew SC beginning in 2015 -- claimed the news headlines in MLS this week with a major signing and a new brand identity, which was unveiled at an event that anointed the first and greatest MLS hype man. The club's owner, Anthony Precourt, joined the guys to discuss his vision for the new-look club.

We also entertain Humble Pie recipes, discuss the MLS edition of the Landon Donovan testimonial and revisit the debate about just how important Tim Cahill is to the New York Red Bulls.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!


The latest USMNT roster is out, and the guys break down the ins and outs of Jurgen Klinsmann's choices. The biggest questions, obviously, surround Landon Donovan? Should he start? How should his legacy be honored? Will he cry? Plus, how will the group change ahead of Honduras?

Meanwhile, in MLS, the battle is on for the Supporters' Shield and MVP award. It comes down to the LA Galaxy and the Seattle Sounders and Robbie Keane and Obafemi Martins. Who's side are you on? Fox Soccer's Kyle McCarthy knows who his vote is going to.

Out East, some are wondering whether Jermaine Jones is proving he's the better of the two USMNT Designated Players that have arrived since the new year. Michael Bradley would have something to say about that. Also, what's going on with Tim Cahill in New York? Last, but certainly not least, listeners wonder whether Donovan's assist mark is cheapened by second assists and what it would take to get Simon on SnapChat.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: Extratime_Radio-_Kyle_McCarthy_Fox_Soccer.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

Vancouver and Portland are locked in a Cascadian battle for a playoff spot. First the guys break down who they think will make it to the big show, then 'Caps head coach Carl Robinson joins the show to discuss scoreboard watching, big-money DPs, Omar Salgado's situation and USL PRO. By the sounds of it, fans in British Columbia could see an offseason influx of talent.

The race in the Eastern Conference is no less compelling, in fact it's downright brutal. See why plenty hinges on Friday's DC-SKC clash. And of course the guys have to talk Landon Donovan after his revealing interview with Grant Wahl. What might his Jeter moment be? Is he a viable MVP candidate? And what's next?

Last, but certainly not least, listeners take Simon to task for his MLS snobery, wonder why PK misses matter so much and the guys choose MLS' best MC.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio__Carl_Robinson_Vancouver_Whitecaps.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

David gets the show started by coming through in the clutch, then the guys turn to the business at hand: playoff races that are only going to heat up from here on out. How will the Portland Timbers deal without their captain Will Johnson, who is set to miss six months? Should Sporting KC be afraid of the Revs? Is Vancouver finally making good on their promise? Best team in MLS? Some say Seattle. Some say LA.

Either way, Andrew says LD is breaking the assist record sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, in USL PRO, the title has already been won. We promised Preki, and we delivered. The Sacramento Republic FC coach talks championship celebrations, Toronto FC, and his own future in a wide-ranging interview. See how close he thinks his current squad is to competing in MLS.

Last, but certainly not least, the mailbag is back, with listeners demanding the ScoreBorg, inquiring about tiebreakers and wondering about the state of the academy system.

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!

Direct download: ExtraTime_Radio-_Preki_Sacramento_Republic_FC.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

He's headed to Tottenham, he could end the season with a Seattle treble and now DeAndre Yedlin is No. 1 in MLSsoccer.com's 24 Under 24 series. Things are good, and Yedlin joins the guys to talk Super Smash Brothers (again?), Latvian passports, his least favorite thing about fame and plays some word association as well.

While Seattle have clinched their playoff spot, Toronto FC are still on the outside looking in. It's Greg Vanney's job to get them there, and he'll soon have Jermain Defoe back for the chase. Meanwhile, it seems Michael Bradley's role has changed, and Toronto may make some news on the USL PRO front soon.

Last, but certainly not least, USL PRO president Tim Holt is on to talk what appears to be a very bright future in the lower divisions. He says there could be as many as four to six additional MLS standalone sides in his league next season. Find out who by taking a listen!

Email us at ExtraTime@MLSsoccer.com or tweet us at @ExtraTimeRadio. And make sure you check out our West Coast brethren at March to the Match every Wednesday!