Across The Pitch Podcasts: Listen To Season 1 Episodes
Episode 43: Bad Bad Scotty Brown - 7/13/2019
Phil and Arran wrap up Season 1 of Across the Pitch by welcoming back their very first guest Scott Brown. They talk about Scott's move from Accrington Stanley to Harrogate Town, reflect on the past season and his career at Stanley, look forward to the upcoming season, and chat with Scott about his plans for after he hangs up his boots. Also, a special message from Scott to fans and former teammates at Accy. You can follow Scott on Twitter at @scottbrown85 .
Episode 42: Honky Tonk, Van De Donk - 7/11/2019
This past Sunday, July 7, 2019 was the biggest day in U.S. Soccer possibly ever, it began with the U.S. women's national soccer team defeating the Netherland's women's national football team to hoist their 2nd consecutive FIFA World Cup. The day ended in disappointment for America, the Men's team fell to Mexico in the final of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Monday, Phil and Matt sat down to give their thoughts on the outcome of both matches, and what each team will need to remain competitive.
Episode 41: Don't Worry Be Accy - 7/10/2019
In this very Accy episode, Phil, Arran, and Darren Woodhead sit down with Mr. Everything at, and creator of the Raw Milk, Accrington Stanley fanzine. They discuss what goes on behind the scenes with the fanzine, chat a bit about some the quirks of being a Stanley supporter, a special announcement about the Accrington Stanley Supporters Club of North America, and more! You can follow Josh on Twitter at @RawMilkZine
Episode 40: Luke "I'm Your Foster" - 6/29/2019
Phil sits down with veteran defender Luke Foster, to chat about the upcoming season at Loughborough Dynamo, and to discuss memories from his lengthy career. Luke shares memories from the Sheffield Wednesday Academy, Oxford United, and Stevenage among others. He also talks a bit about the state of finances in non-league football, and his plans for after he hangs up his boots. You can follow Luke on Twitter at @LukeJamesFoster
Episode 39: Whatcha Ghana Do - 6/20/2019
Phil sits down with Abdulai Suburu of ghannapremierleaguelive.com and chats about the history of the Ghana Premier League, the Ghana national team's chances in the upcoming African Cup of nations. We also talk about Ghanaian players in the United States, including Phoenix Rising captain Solomon Astante, Abu Danladi of Minnesota United, and Iddrisu Abdallah of the Tulsa Roughnecks. Also a deep discussion of the Accra Hearts of Oak SC vs Asante Kotoko rivalry. You can follow Abdulai on Twitter at @SuburuAbdulai.
Episode 38 Part 2: Waltzing Matildas - 6/17/2019
Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss the group stage of the FIFA Women's World Cup in France. They go in depth on Australia's thrilling come from behind win over Brazil. The guys also discuss the all of the hullabaloo surrounding the U.S. Team's 13-0 win over Thailand and celebration controversy.
Episode 38 Part 1: Shiver Me Timbers - 6/15/2019
Phil, Arran, and Matt make their predictions for the Round of 16 in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. They go through every game in the round and make their predictions, and also pick who they think is going to win the trophy. They also discuss happenings from Round 4 in the Open Cup, and why they think that Portland Timbers could be a surprise threat coming out of the MLS Western Conference.
Episode 37: Thai Game: Interview With Ayutthaya United's Chris Corez - 6/10/2019
Phil and Arran sit down with former Phoenix Rising and current Ayutthaya United Forward Chris Cortez. After almost half a year in Thailand Chris has had a chance to experience the culture of a new land and taken a trip around the league. He shares with us his experiences, what the season has been like so far, and where he plans to play in the future. You can follow Chris on Twitter at @c_cortez88.
Episode 36: WonderCal: Interview With Minnesota United Announcer Callum Williams - 6/8/2019
Phil and Arran sit down with announcer Callum Williams to talk about our Team of the Month, Minnesota United FC. They discuss Minnesota's season so far, expectations for the rest of the season, a bit of club history, and the story behind how "Wonderwall" became the team song. Cal takes a few minutes to bask in the glory of his beloved Aston Villa's recent promotion to the Premier League.
Interview With Phoenix Rising Midfielder Junior Flemmings - 6/5/2019
Matt Robards catches up with Phoenix Rising midfielder Junior Flemmings after practice on Tuesday, June 4, 2019. "Flemmo" is off to a great start in his first season with the club with 6 goals and 5 assists through the season's first 12 games. Matt chats with Junior about what brought him to the club, some of his highlights from the season so far, and a question about gummy bear and hoverboards. You can follow Junior on Twitter at @Flemmo_77.
Episode 34 Part 2: FIFA Las Vegas - 5/25/2019
In part 2 of this week's episode Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss the Phoenix Rising's most recent match against the Las Vegas Lights, and what they are seeing with the team recently. They talk about how midfielders Junior Flemmings and Solomon Asante compliment each other on the pitch. Also a shout out to our friend Scott Brown who is leaving Accrington for Harrogate Town.
(Note: This episode was recorded at the same time as Episode 34 Part 1, but was released after episode 35.)
Episode 35: Showing You Who's Ross - 5/25/2019
Phil and Arran sit down with USL League One Greenville Triumph announcer Ross Devonport and talk football on both sides of the pond, and even a little bit of rugby. Ross is a true Renaissance man who know a little bit about every sport in the book, and has worked for cbssports.com as a fantasy writer. To top things off he is the son of an English rugby player! We also have a special surprise. The first ever Across The Pitch Rug Bee!
Episode 34 Part 1: Aston Villa Music Ft. (/ˈdɑːrbi ˈkaʊnti/) - 5/22/2019
This week Phil, Arran, and Matt break down the EFL Playoffs, going in depth on each of the 3 matches. They start with EFL League Two Tranmere Rovers vs Newport County, then EFL League One Charlton Athletic vs Sunderland A.F.C., and conclude with EFL Championship Aston Villa vs Derby County, with the winner of the game earning promotion to the Premier League, and and estimated $160 million pound payout! Read our previews of each of these games at Blog.
Episode 33: Here Comes The Dove King - 5/19/2019
Phil and Matt sit down with Accrington Stanley right back and midfielder Callum Johnson, in the second interview in our Callum Club series. They talk with Callum about the previous season in League One, and what he his looking forward to next season. They talk about his time at Middlesborough Academy, and why he decided to sign on with Accy full time after going there on loan. We also ask him if he believes his name Callum gives him any special advantages as a footballer. Read more at Callum Club
Episode 32: Most Hated Man In Birkenhead - 5/12/2019
On this week's episode Phil, Arran, and Matt break down the promotion playoffs in the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. They go over the match-ups and make predictions for who they think will be promoted from each league. They also do a recap on the happenings of the semi-final round in the Champions League, and Arran makes a few new friends in Tranmere. Also, we debut "Get Some" the new single by The Glides at the end of the show.
Episode 31: EFL Unplugged In Arizona - 5/3/2019
In this week's episode Phil, Arran, and Matt talk playoffs in the EFL. They break down the final week of the season in the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. They also discuss which team's have already been promoted of relegated, and make their pick to come out of the playoffs in each league.
(Note: This episode is Unplugged because due to time sensitive material we have done very little sound editing. We apologize that this episode is less than our regular quality standards.)
Episode 30: I Wanna Holt Your Hand - 5/2/2019
In an extra special Sunday Conversation edition, Phil and Arran sit down with Accrington Stanley Owner and Chairman Andy Holt. They talk with Andy about what lead him to buy the club, his background and the story of his business WHAM, improvements with the club, the importance of staying up in League One, and what he wants his legacy to be with the team. Special thanks to Mike Procter http://www.brettonart.uk/ for the use of his painting.
Episode 29: Dynamo Dreamin' - 4/25/2019
In a special Non-League Spotlight edition of Across The Pitch, Phil and Arran sit down with Loughborough Dynamo manager Lee Attenborough. They discuss the happenings around Loughborough, and the unique challenges and ups and downs of managing a club that is underfunded even compared with other teams in their division. Lee is at 28-years-old the youngest manager in Northern Premier League Division One East history, and has a chance with a win this Saturday to lead Dynamo to their best finish in club history.
Episode 28 Part 2: House Of The Rising Son - 4/23/2019
In Part 2 of episode 28 the farm animals have gone home, but Phil, Arran, and Matt return to talk about the UEFA Champions League quarter finals. They discuss what happened in the previous round, who they think will advance, and Phil makes a shocking pick to win the whole thing. They also debate who the top player left in the tournament is, and we introduce a brand new author, Darren Woodhead, to the Across The Pitch blog team!
Episode 28 Part 1: Stone Bold Team Austin - 4/20/2019
On a very special Farm Animal Night of Across the Pitch Phil, Arran, and Matt are cheesed off after Phoenix Rising's loss to the expansion Austin Bold. They give an unhinged and oftentimes emotional take on the night's game. On a side note, @yourPHXCW we do compare you to a certain metal water boiling kettle, however, your video apology is noted and accepted. Hey, even NBC had The Heidi Game. UEFA Champions League recap coming in part 2.
Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com, BuffBill84, Mike Koenig http://soundbible.com/
Episode 27: Tangerine Dreams - 4/17/2019
In a very special interview Phil, Arran, and Matt chat with Blackpool legend Brett Ormerod. Brett scored at all 4 levels of English Football for Blackpool, including the Premier League and the winning goal in the EFL Championship playoffs. Brett also discusses his time with Accrington Stanley, tells stories about his former coaches, and a bit about life after football. If you want to hear more of Brett, you can hear him on the Under The Cosh podcast https://podtail.com/en/podcast/undr-the-cosh/.
Episode 25 Part 3: The Loan Rangers - 4/14/2019
In the long awaited Part 3 of our 25th episode, Phil, Arran, and Matt have a spirited debate about the financial issues facing teams in the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. Arran thinks the cause of the financial issues that teams like the Bolton Wanderers are having are due to big teams hoarding players and loaning them. Phil suggests a salary cap and revenue sharing system. Matt suggests that they both are crazy, and its just plain poor ownership. A real cracker of a discussion! (NOTE: THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED AT THE SAME TIME AS PARTS 1 AND 2 OF EPISODE 25. IT WAS RECORDED BEFORE BUT RELEASED AFTER EPISODE 26, HENCE THE IRREGULARITY IN NUMBERING)
Episode 26: Industry And Prudence Conquer - 4/9/2019
In a special Sunday Conversation (recorded on a Saturday) edition of Phil and Arran sit down for another chat with 50 Years of Accrington Stanley author Darren Woodhead. They discuss what will be going into the final chapter of the book, due out in July, that you can preorder at onstanleyon.com or purchase at the grounds. They also talk about what Stanley needs to do down the stretch to stay up in League One, and Arran and Darren nerd out for a moment about their shared love of cricket.
Episode 25 Part 2: Cat On A Hot Tin Pot - 4/7/2019
In Part 2 of this 3 part 25th episode, Phil, Arran, and Matt break down what's going on in EFL Leagues One and Two. They talk about what teams are most likely to get promoted, make the playoffs, or become relegated. They also introduce Portsmouth as team of the month for April, and discuss the meaning of the term tin pot. They also look at the heated battle to stay in League One, and follow up on whether Notts County, Yeovil, and Macclesfield can stay up and avoid being sent to non-league. Stay tuned for Part 3 upcoming which is a deep dive on loan players and financial issues in the EFL.
Episode 25 Part 1: The Oxford Blue Throne - 4/6/2019
On Part 1 of this week's special, multi-part, 25th episode, Phil, Arran and Matt talk about the Premier League and EFL Championship races at both the top and bottom ends of the table. They also discuss the opening game at the massive latrine also known as the new Tottenham Stadium, and the unusual friendship between WWE legend Mick Foley, and Sheffield United's Billy Sharp. In the upcoming parts they will discuss Leagues One and Two, and a deep dive on loan players and financial issues in the EFL.
Episode 24: What's Your MLS Fantasy? - 3/30/2019
This week Phil, Arran, and Matt interview mlssoccer.com MLS Fantasy writer Schuyler Redpath about the best strategies for winning your league. Schuyler is the 2011 National Champion for MLS Fantasy and each week has a list of the top players. He shares with us some of his secret strategy's including the Autoroo, and at the end we play a bit of Premier League trivia with him. A very entertaining and informative chat!
Episode 23: Mad Marchness - 3/23/2019
On this week's episode, Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss the madness that is the relegation battle in the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. Additionally, they do a deep dive on the financial crisis with the Bolton Wanderers. They also talk about the Final Four of the FA Cup, and what the future could hold for Jose Mourhino and Mesut Ozil. They also play a sneak preview of a new song called L.A.W. by past guest Travis Kenny.
Episode 22: Werewolves In Wolverhampton - 3/19/2019
In this week's episode Phil and Arran (Matt is out this week) do a deep dive on the race at both ends of League One. In addition, they talk about what's going on with the UEFA Champions League, the fight to avoid relegation from the Premier League, and player of the week, Wolverhampton striker Raul Jimenez. They also talk about the first game of the Phoenix Rising season, and what their head coach Rick Schantz may have learned from Jurgen Klopp. Also, a special announcement from Phil.
Episode 21: Gone With The Snow - 3/11/2019
On this week's episode Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss some surprise results in the UEFA Champions League, preview the just underway MLS season and a recap of the exciting Snow Classico 3, talk about whether or not Liverpool's title hopes are gone with the wind, and exciting breaking news announcements. Plus, a listener question about what are the reasons that a team would want to loan a player to another team, and what does the future hold for Gareth Bale.
Episode 20: Where In The World Is Chris Cortez - 3/2/2019
In this week's special episode, Phil, Arran, and Matt sit down with Phoenix Rising all-time leading scorer, Chris Cortez, and talk about his move to Thailand and more. Find out why Chris decided to make the move to the Far East, some of his favorite Phoenix Rising memories and goals, and where Chris thinks his career may take him in the future. This is a can't miss, as this is it is his first English language interview since his transfer to Chonburi FC and subsequent loan to Ayutthaya United. Chris also gives a heartfelt thank you to the supporters and his former teammates in Phoenix.
Episode 19: 50 Years Of Accrington Stanley - 2/28/2019
On a special, Sunday Conversation, edition of Across The Pitch, Phil Kennedy sits down with Darren Woodhead, author and historian of Accrington Stanley. They discuss his upcoming book commemorating the team's 50 years at the Crown Ground. They discuss things that are happening with the club past and present including Darren's first hand account of celebrating with the team after winning League Two in the 2017-2018 season. You can pre-order a copy of the book here for just 8 quid plus postage.
Episode 18 - Part 2: Singing The Sarri Blues - 2/25/2019
In part 2 of the episode Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss the situation that is happening at Chelsea, and what they think is the future there for Maurizio Sarri. Additionally, they do a break down of the races in the EFL Championship, League One, and League Two. This includes a discussion about the dominant season Luton Town is having, and a check in on Newport County and Notts. We also announce a special Accrington Stanley related guest that is upcoming, and news about a shirt raffle.
Episode 18 - Part 1: Doueugui's Pizza - 2/23/2019
In our special 2019 Phoenix Rising season preview Phil, Arran, and Matt go over the roster from top to bottom including a look at players who have come and gone from last season. They take an in depth look at Adam Jahn who is pegged to be the team's top striker this year, and discuss what other holes in the roster still need to be filled. They also talk about returning players like Solomon Asante, new additions like Joey Calistri, head coach Rick Shantz, a pizza named in the honor of Doueugui Mala, and much more!
Episode 17: The Callum Club - 2/17/2019
In this special edition, Phil Kennedy, Arran Airs, and Matt Robards sit down with Minnesota United FC announcer Callum Williams. This interview, which is the first edition in our Callum Club series focuses on the upcoming MLS season, Minnesota's latest signings and acquisitions, Callum's thought's on the Phoenix Rising, and more. We also discuss how the MLS stacks up against other leagues around the world and whether or not David Beckham deserves a statue in Los Angeles.
Episode 16: Amond Joy - 2/16/2019
A special edition as Phil Kennedy and Arran Airs sit down with Newport County A.F.C. striker Padraig Amond prior to their big match-up with Manchester City in the 5th Round of the FA Cup. Big goals against Tottenham, Leicester City, and Middlesbrough. They also talk about the League 2 season, his career with Accrington Stanley and Grimsby, his sport column in Ireland, coaching aspirations, and whether or not he would ever consider coming to the MLS.
Episode 15: Forget Me Notts - 2/9/2019
This week Phil, Matt, and Arran discuss the FA Cup as it leads into the 5th Round and some upsets including Newport Country over Middlesborough. They also discuss historic teams, the origin of the English football league, and team's with unusual names. Additionally, they talk about what team may get promoted from or relegated to "non-league", guys playing soccer while wearing ties, and even a debate about Leo Messi versus Tom Brady.
Episode 14: Team Daryl Supporters - 2/3/2019
In tonights episode Phil, Arran, and Matt dedicate their team of the month for February in support of Daryl Grove of the Total Soccer Show who recently announced he is battling cancer. You can find a link to donate to Daryl's GoFundMe on our homepage or donate by clicking here https://www.gofundme.com/team-daryl-grove.
We also discuss the movings about of the January transfer window, upsets in Round 4 of the FA Cup, and a bit on footballers named Callum. We also answer a listener question about our home town Phoenix Rising FC, and say farewell to our January team of the month Luton Town.
Episode 13: American Outlaw Country - 1/28/2019
This week Phil, Arran, and Matt sit down with American Outlaws Phoenix Chapter President Ryan Shirah. AO is the official supporters group of the U.S. Mens National Team. Ryan tells us about his experience with setting up for this week's match in Glendale against Panama. He also tells us more about how the club works, and we have an in depth discussion about new coach Gregg Berhalter, up and coming players to watch, the Women's World Cup, and more. Ryan is also know for dressing up as George Washington at the U.S Team game and hosts his own podcasts Shat The Movies (http://shatthemovies.com/) and Shat On TV (https://shatontv.com/).
Episode 12: Great Scott - 1/24/2019
On this special edition of the Across The Pitch Podcast, Phil, Arran, and Matt sit down with veteran Accrington Stanley midfielder Scott Brown. (Scott Brown also appears on episode 2). They discuss the upcoming FA Cup match with Derby County at the WHAM Stadium, a wild match at Charlton, the departure of goalkeeper Connor Ripley, the team's latest additions in the January transfer window, and what is The Gaffer, John Coleman cheesed off about.
Episode 11: Cech Ya Later - 1/21/2019
This week Phil, Arran, and Matt discuss the retirement of legendary Arsenal and Chelsea goaltender Petr Cech, as well as player of the week David De Gea as part of a deep dive on goalkeepers. They also discuss athletes in American sports with a soccer background, the FA Cup rematches, more on our team of the month Luton Town, and how will Tottenham fare without Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son.
Episode 10: Hatter's Delight - 1/12/2019
This week guest analyst Matt Robards joins Phil and Arran again as they cover team of the month Luton Town and the departure of their manager Nathan Jones, their upcoming match with Sunderland, the League One title race, and also do a deep dive on the hit Netflix documentary series, "Sunderland Til' I Die". Additional topics include upsets in the FA Cup and player of the week Rúben Neves of Wolverhampton.
Episode 9: Citizens Kane - 1/7/2019
On this week's episode we break down an epic English Premier League match-up between Manchester City and Liverpool that is decided by a mere 11 millimeters. We also discuss the FA Cup third round action, our team of the month Luton Town, and our player of the week Son Heung-Min of the Tottenham Hotspur. Plus, a listener question about the best and most surprising EPL players so far this season.
Episode 8: New Years Rockin' Episode - 12/31/2018
This week Phil and Arran ring in 2019 with a musical themed episode. We sit down with Travis Kenny, lead singer for The Glides (who provide the official Across The Pitch intro music). Travis talks about his musical products and talks about his beloved Seattle Sounders, and a childhood meeting with the legendary Pelé. We also announce our team of the month for January, Luton Town, winners of our fan contest.
Episode 7: Insane In De Bruyne - 12/25/2018
Guest co-host Matt Robards joins the Across The Pitch team today to discuss what new players your team may be getting for Christmas during the upcoming January transfer window. In depth analysis on Christian Pulisic and Callum Wilson, and where they may be headed. Our player of the week is Kevin De Bruyne and we discuss who is the best Belgian between De Bruyne and Hazard. Also find out about who the Phoenix Rising have recently signed to make up for the hole left by the retirement of Didier Drogba.
Episode 6: Say It Ain't So José - 12/22/2018
On this week's edition of the Across The Pitch Podcast Phil and Arran mourn the loss of their favorite topic, José Mourhino, after he has been sacked from Manchester United. They discuss United's future, post Mourhino, and the recent struggles of Arsenal. Also on tap this week's featured player, Aaron Wan Bissaka, the return, of Kevin de Bruyne, and our first sponsor @PatOrmsby17. We also announce the newest addition to the Across The Pitch team, tactical expert Matt Robards.
Episode 5: The Gurban Dictionary - 12/15/2018
This week Phil and Arran discuss the Final 16 in the UEFA Champions League, with a debate about whether or not fans should root for rival team's from their favorite league in European Leagues. We also talk about the Arsenal match-up with Qarabag in the Europa League with a profile on Qarabag manager, and Azerbaijani football legend Gurban Gurbanov. We also talk this week's English Premier League match-ups, and a listener question about Arthur Blank and Newcastle United. Plus, we talk about our team of the month Sheffield United.
Episode 4: No Way José Mourhino - 12/8/2018
This week Phil and Arran discuss José Mourhino's future at Manchester United, and a deep look into other EPL action from this week. We also discus who may be the frontrunner for EPL MVP and break down who has the most goals and assists. At the end of the show we answer a listener question, and have a trivia contest to announce our team of the month for December.
Episode 3: We Are The Champions League - 11/30/2018
In this week's episode we discuss the UEFA Champions League and how the English team's are doing in the competition. We also talk about upcoming local derby's in the English Premier League, give a break down on what the UEFA Europa League is, and break down the difference between the EFL Cup and FA Cup. Our first listener questions are in this week as well.
Episode 2: Interview With Scott Brown Accrington Stanley - 11/24/2018
We took the time this week to sit down with veteran Accrington Stanley midfielder Scott Brown. During the interview we discussed a bit about his career, and how his rise back to League One after missing over 2 seasons with a serious leg injury has in some ways run parallel to Accrington Stanley's rise. We also talk with him about manager John Coleman, whom he followed to Stanley after captaining for him at Southport, and how Coleman has been instrumental in both his success and the club's rise through the tables.
Episode 1 - Who Are They? - 11/22/2018
Welcome to our very first podcast - a podcast for American listeners who are wanting to learn a little bit more about the "beautiful game". Tonight: An introduction, Accrington Stanley, Mbappé, us, and a general good chat about what "cheeses us off".