This was not how it was supposed to go. A match at the Rose Bowl? Blowing a 2-goal lead with less than 25 minutes to go? No Vela AND no Chiqui? However you slice it, it's an unceremonious exit for LAFC as they fall to Monterrey, 3-2. LAFC raced out to a 2-goal lead behind the skillful PK of Denis Bouanga and the banger of a golazo by Mati Boguesz. But the entire second half belonged to Monterrey, as they roared back with 2 goals of their own and a little help from Sergi Palencia en route to a comeback win.The story of the match was substitutions. All three of Monterrey's subs directly affected the game's outcome and were, in some way, responsible for a goal being scored. The same could not be said for LAFC. Either way, our Leagues Cup run is done.  Also on this episode, Cifu debuts in Scotland, LAFC2 gets set to host a derby, and we wish a very happy birthday to friend-of-the-pod Team Security Paul! Enjoy, or at least get through, Episode 270. 

This was not how it was supposed to go. A match at the Rose Bowl? Blowing a 2-goal lead with less than 25 minutes to go? No Vela AND no Chiqui? However you slice it, it's an unceremonious exit for LAFC as they fall to Monterrey, 3-2. LAFC raced out to a 2-goal lead behind the skillful PK of Denis Bouanga and the banger of a golazo by Mati Boguesz. But the entire second half belonged to Monterrey, as they roared back with 2 goals of their own and a little help from Sergi Palencia en route to a comeback win.The story of the match was substitutions. All three of Monterrey's subs directly affected the game's outcome and were, in some way, responsible for a goal being scored. The same could not be said for LAFC. Either way, our Leagues Cup run is done.  Also on this episode, Cifu debuts in Scotland, LAFC2 gets set to host a derby, and we wish a very happy birthday to friend-of-the-pod Team Security Paul! Enjoy, or at least get through, Episode 270.

Episode 270 - LAFC Spills League Cup With Awful Second Half

In what was a homecoming of two of our beloved former sons of the Black and Gold, LAFC was anything but hospitable in taking out RSL, 4-0, to move on to the Round of 8 of the 2023 Leagues Cup.LAFC dodged a few bullets from RSL in the first half before unloading a barrage on the visitors in the second half. Mati sprung Denis en route to our first goal, and just five minutes later, Justen Glad decided to bring us all a party favor! He absolutely gets his pocket picked by Denis, who easily slots home the short-range goal. LAFC cemented the win with a goal by Nathan Ordaz and one from the debutant, Filip Krastev, to seal the 4-0 win! Get ready for a date with Monterrey at the Rose Bowl on Friday. Lastly, I (Scarf), just want you all to know how grateful I am for all your love and support over the past month. This one is for you, dad.

In what was a homecoming of two of our beloved former sons of the Black and Gold, LAFC was anything but hospitable in taking out RSL, 4-0, to move on to the Round of 8 of the 2023 Leagues Cup.LAFC dodged a few bullets from RSL in the first half before unloading a barrage on the visitors in the second half. Mati sprung Denis en route to our first goal, and just five minutes later, Justen Glad decided to bring us all a party favor! He absolutely gets his pocket picked by Denis, who easily slots home the short-range goal. LAFC cemented the win with a goal by Nathan Ordaz and one from the debutant, Filip Krastev, to seal the 4-0 win! Get ready for a date with Monterrey at the Rose Bowl on Friday.  Lastly, I (Scarf), just want you all to know how grateful I am for all your love and support over the past month. This one is for you, dad.

Episode 269 - Denis and the Kids Down Chicho and Moose

On this episode of Defenders, we experience a lot of firsts! First Leagues Cup match, first pitch pigeon, first pod with Panda, and  we got our first Touchdown in our 7-1 sin against FC Juarez. But more importantly than that we send out many thoughts and prayers for Papa Scarf and employ the millions…..to join us in helping rally behind JR “The Scarf” and his family during this difficult time. We love you buddy! 

On this episode of Defenders, we experience a lot of firsts! First Leagues Cup match, first pitch pigeon, first pod with Panda, and  we got our first Touchdown in our 7-1 sin against FC Juarez. But more importantly than that we send out many thoughts and prayers for Papa Scarf and employ the millions…..to join us in helping rally behind JR “The Scarf” and his family during this difficult time. We love you buddy!

Episode 268 - TOUCHDOWN LAFC!

As the All-Star Break looms, LAFC heads north to take on the Loons. Playing their 33rd match of the season (that's a record), the Black and Gold's affair with Minnesota is our focal point for Episode 267. The first half belonged to Emmanuel Reynoso, Minnesota's talented talisman. Despite plenty of opportunities, the home side was still scoreless after 20 minutes. Carlos Vela's beautiful run, freed by a great ball from Stipe Biuk, put LAFC up for a whole three minutes before exquisite passing from Minnesota found Reynoso for the equalizer. From there on out, other than a couple of solid saves from J-Mac and near misses by Hlongwane and Hollingshead, the second half played out without too much drama. Both sides split a point as we head to the break. Also on this episode, Mahala opens his account in Montreal, LAFC receives money from FIFA, and the GOAT is pink. Yes, silly season is about to be upon us, as Lionel Messi joins the ranks of the 29th place club in MLS, Inter Miami. Here. We. Go.

As the All-Star Break looms, LAFC heads north to take on the Loons. Playing their 33rd match of the season (that's a record), the Black and Gold's affair with Minnesota is our focal point for Episode 267.  The first half belonged to Emmanuel Reynoso, Minnesota's talented talisman. Despite plenty of opportunities, the home side was still scoreless after 20 minutes. Carlos Vela's beautiful run, freed by a great ball from Stipe Biuk, put LAFC up for a whole three minutes before exquisite passing from Minnesota found Reynoso for the equalizer. From there on out, other than a couple of solid saves from J-Mac and near misses by Hlongwane and Hollingshead, the second half played out without too much drama. Both sides split a point as we head to the break.  Also on this episode, Mahala opens his account in Montreal, LAFC receives money from FIFA, and the GOAT is pink. Yes, silly season is about to be upon us, as Lionel Messi joins the ranks of the 29th place club in MLS, Inter Miami. Here. We. Go.

Episode 267 - Vela Nets Another; LAFC Still Winless in Minnesota

LAFC headed back to BMO to take on St. Louis City SC for the very first time in club history. Would LAFC continue their dominance over expansion clubs, or would the top club in the West come into our house and take all three points?The first half happened. We promise. In order for the second half to be played, there has to be one half before, and there was. However, very, very little happened. About an hour in, Stipe Biuk came on to replace Mati Bogusz, and that's where the fireworks began! After several good opportunities from Biuk, Jose Cifuentes dropped a perfect dime to Carlos Vela and that sweet, goal-scoring left foot of his put the home side up 1-0. The goal would prove historic, as that would be LAFC's 350th MLS regular season goal in just 180 games, eclipsing the record held by DC United with 4 matches to spare. Ten minutes later, a perfect buildup involving no less than a half-dozen LAFC players culminates with Stipe's third goal of the year. As if the rout wasn't already on, Nathan Ordaz found a streaking Cifu for the third goal of the match, and for the first time in a while, it's FREE Baskin Robbins for all!Also on this episode, Filly impersonates Isaac Hayes, Scarf falls in love with a scarf, and Olly goes on flyabout. Happy birthday, Chiqui Palacios, and we hope you enjoy Episode 266!

LAFC headed back to BMO to take on St. Louis City SC for the very first time in club history. Would LAFC continue their dominance over expansion clubs, or would the top club in the West come into our house and take all three points?The first half happened. We promise. In order for the second half to be played, there has to be one half before, and there was. However, very, very little happened. About an hour in, Stipe Biuk came on to replace Mati Bogusz, and that's where the fireworks began! After several good opportunities from Biuk, Jose Cifuentes dropped a perfect dime to Carlos Vela and that sweet, goal-scoring left foot of his put the home side up 1-0. The goal would prove historic, as that would be LAFC's 350th MLS regular season goal in just 180 games, eclipsing the record held by DC United with 4 matches to spare. Ten minutes later, a perfect buildup involving no less than a half-dozen LAFC players culminates with Stipe's third goal of the year. As if the rout wasn't already on, Nathan Ordaz found a streaking Cifu for the third goal of the match, and for the first time in a while, it's FREE Baskin Robbins for all!Also on this episode, Filly impersonates Isaac Hayes, Scarf falls in love with a scarf, and Olly goes on flyabout. Happy birthday, Chiqui Palacios, and we hope you enjoy Episode 266!

Episode 266 - LAFC is Top Dog in 3-0 Win Over St. Louis

For just about everywhere else in the US, July 8 is smack in the middle of summer. At BMO Stadium, however, July 8 marked the return of Fall, as "Air Senegal" himself, Mamadou Fall, made his return to the Black and Gold after a loan spell in Spain with Villareal. Needing depth at CB, Steve thrust him into the XI for our match against San Jose. Both superstars, Cristian Espinoza and Denis Bouanga, traded first-half goals en route to a 1-1 scoreline after 45, but the fireworks were just beginning. With over 30 minutes left, SJ keeper Daniel was assessed a straight red for a handball well outside of the box, giving LAFC an advantage for the remainder of the match. But despite our (best?) attempts, we couldn't muster much against their second keeper, J.T. Marcinkowski, and LAFC is forced to swallow a bitter point at home. Also on this episode, we get stats with both Filly and Scarf, we wish happy birthday to a founding member of our club, and we keep one eye on Sandy, Utah and the beginning of the Chicho Era at RSL. Enjoy Episode 265, and we will see you in just a few days for the tussle against St. Louis!

For just about everywhere else in the US, July 8 is smack in the middle of summer. At BMO Stadium, however, July 8 marked the return of Fall, as "Air Senegal" himself, Mamadou Fall, made his return to the Black and Gold after a loan spell in Spain with Villareal. Needing depth at CB, Steve thrust him into the XI for our match against San Jose. Both superstars, Cristian Espinoza and Denis Bouanga, traded first-half goals en route to a 1-1 scoreline after 45, but the fireworks were just beginning. With over 30 minutes left, SJ keeper Daniel was assessed a straight red for a handball well outside of the box, giving LAFC an advantage for the remainder of the match. But despite our (best?) attempts, we couldn't muster much against their second keeper, J.T. Marcinkowski, and LAFC is forced to swallow a bitter point at home. Also on this episode, we get stats with both Filly and Scarf, we wish happy birthday to a founding member of our club, and we keep one eye on Sandy, Utah and the beginning of the Chicho Era at RSL. Enjoy Episode 265, and we will see you in just a few days for the tussle against St. Louis!

Episode 265 - Fall Returns, The Offense Doesn't In Draw to SJ

Here on an impromptu but necessary Episode 264, we celebrate the Black and Gold tenure of Kwadwo "Mahala" Opoku. The striker from Accra, Ghana with an electric smile gave LAFC four fantastic seasons, appearing in 79 total matches, scoring some absolute bangers, and making lifelong fans of us all.We break down Mahala by the numbers, show some of his game-winning goals, chat with many of you about his impact, and, as best we can, also try to explain what in the heck GAM is. Mahala, we appreciate EVERYTHING you gave us wearing the LAFC crest, and we wish you all the best as you join Bryce Duke and the boys over in Montreal. 

Here on an impromptu but necessary Episode 264, we celebrate the Black and Gold tenure of Kwadwo "Mahala" Opoku. The striker from Accra, Ghana with an electric smile gave LAFC four fantastic seasons, appearing in 79 total matches, scoring some absolute bangers, and making lifelong fans of us all.We break down Mahala by the numbers, show some of his game-winning goals, chat with many of you about his impact, and, as best we can, also try to explain what in the heck GAM is. Mahala, we appreciate EVERYTHING you gave us wearing the LAFC crest, and we wish you all the best as you join Bryce Duke and the boys over in Montreal.

Episode 264 - Mahala Appreciation Pod

It was a banner day for MLS, putting two of the marquee franchises in the league on display in front of over 82,000 in Pasadena. It was a banner day for Carson, as they dredged up the ghosts of seasons past to revel in what once was at their old stomping grounds. It was a banner day for The 3252, as their performance amongst an MLS-record attendance crowd was something every single supporter of LAFC should be proud of. But as you will hear here on Episode 263, unfortunately, it was not a banner day for the Black and Gold on the pitch, as we fell to Carson, 2-1, behind goals from Boyd and Puig. Also on this episode, we learn a little about Twizzle, we pop our Rose Bowl Press Box cherry, and we (likely) say goodbye to Jose Cifuentes. The transfer window is open, everyone! For the next two weeks, it's silly season in the rumor mill, and we are all about it. But don't worry, we've also got three more matches in the span of just 11 days before our much-needed time off before Leagues Cup. Enjoy Episode 263!

It was a banner day for MLS, putting two of the marquee franchises in the league on display in front of over 82,000 in Pasadena. It was a banner day for Carson, as they dredged up the ghosts of seasons past to revel in what once was at their old stomping grounds. It was a banner day for The 3252, as their performance amongst an MLS-record attendance crowd was something every single supporter of LAFC should be proud of. But as you will hear here on Episode 263, unfortunately, it was not a banner day for the Black and Gold on the pitch, as we fell to Carson, 2-1, behind goals from Boyd and Puig. Also on this episode, we learn a little about Twizzle, we pop our Rose Bowl Press Box cherry, and we (likely) say goodbye to Jose Cifuentes. The transfer window is open, everyone! For the next two weeks, it's silly season in the rumor mill, and we are all about it. But don't worry, we've also got three more matches in the span of just 11 days before our much-needed time off before Leagues Cup. Enjoy Episode 263!

Episode 263 - Rose Bowl Rivalry Ends in 2-1 Loss

Episode 262 - No Ferreira, No Problem As Dallas Wins 2-0LAFC looked to get back on the right side of things as they head to take on a Dallas club decimated by injuries and international duty. After a perplexing loss to Vancouver, this couldn't have been a better time to take on Dallas... right?Wrong. Despite missing Jesus Ferreira, Paul Arriola, Obrian, and others, Dallas took over the second half (after Chiellini and Tillman came off), kept LAFC at bay, and walked out of the sweltering humidity of Frisco with a 2-0 win. 7 losses in 10 matches is the prelude to Carson at the Rose Bowl. LAFC falls to second in the Western Conference as questions must get louder about a true 9. The transfer window looms, and we need bodies and rest. Also on this episode, it's Scarf who rants against the antiquated MLS as we get set to play 33 matches by July 15. Yes, that's a record by a WIDE margin. We also take time to remember Chris "Spanto" Printup, founder of Born x Raised and beloved Angelino. Rest well, Spanto. 

Episode 262 - No Ferreira, No Problem As Dallas Wins 2-0 LAFC looked to get back on the right side of things as they head to take on a Dallas club decimated by injuries and international duty. After a perplexing loss to Vancouver, this couldn't have been a better time to take on Dallas... right? Wrong. Despite missing Jesus Ferreira, Paul Arriola, Obrian, and others, Dallas took over the second half (after Chiellini and Tillman came off), kept LAFC at bay, and walked out of the sweltering humidity of Frisco with a 2-0 win.  7 losses in 10 matches is the prelude to Carson at the Rose Bowl. LAFC falls to second in the Western Conference as questions must get louder about a true 9. The transfer window looms, and we need bodies and rest. Also on this episode, it's Scarf who rants against the antiquated MLS as we get set to play 33 matches by July 15. Yes, that's a record by a WIDE margin.  We also take time to remember Chris "Spanto" Printup, founder of Born x Raised and beloved Angelino. Rest well, Spanto.

Episode 262 - No Ferreira, No Problem As Dallas Wins 2-0

On Episode 261, we break down the breakdowns in LAFC's upset loss at home to the Whitecaps, 3-2.  For the second time this season, a club has come into BMO and wrestled away their first road win of the season. This trend needs to stop.Vancouver struck early, as a third-minute goal off a set piece put the bad guys up 1-0. They would double their lead about 20 minutes later off a Brian White header, and it was clear the defending champs were reeling They needed something to get them off the mat, and right before halftime, they would find that something!Denis Bouanga pounces on a rebound to net his 11th of the MLS campaign, and the lead was halved. Unfortunately, the Whitecaps would score a third about 20 minutes into the second half, putting the home side down a pair. A Carlos Vela goal, off a beautiful steal and pass by Mati, would again cut the deficit to one, but it was too little, too late for the Black and Gold. Vancouver would take all three points, 3-2. Also on this episode, we are reminded that love is love as our friends Taylor and Max tie the knot on Christmas Tree Lane. We get back to our "Wait, What?!" moment, we get set to potentially welcome back a back-line weapon, and we can breathe easier as we watch Olly soar. Enjoy Episode 261!

On Episode 261, we break down the breakdowns in LAFC's upset loss at home to the Whitecaps, 3-2.  For the second time this season, a club has come into BMO and wrestled away their first road win of the season. This trend needs to stop.Vancouver struck early, as a third-minute goal off a set piece put the bad guys up 1-0. They would double their lead about 20 minutes later off a Brian White header, and it was clear the defending champs were reeling They needed something to get them off the mat, and right before halftime, they would find that something!Denis Bouanga pounces on a rebound to net his 11th of the MLS campaign, and the lead was halved. Unfortunately, the Whitecaps would score a third about 20 minutes into the second half, putting the home side down a pair. A Carlos Vela goal, off a beautiful steal and pass by Mati, would again cut the deficit to one, but it was too little, too late for the Black and Gold. Vancouver would take all three points, 3-2. Also on this episode, we are reminded that love is love as our friends Taylor and Max tie the knot on Christmas Tree Lane. We get back to our "Wait, What?!" moment, we get set to potentially welcome back a back-line weapon, and we can breathe easier as we watch Olly soar. Enjoy Episode 261!

Episode 261 - One Step Back in Loss To Vancouver, 3-2

Christian "Filly" Filimon and "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert talk all things LAFC (Los Angeles Football Club), Los Angeles' MLS soccer club. Hear original content, player, personnel, and fan interviews, team news, game breakdowns, supporters group chats, and so much more about LAFC. This podcast is BLACK and GOLD!

Love these guys’ spirit. Philly &amp; the Scarf are awesome 👍

Love it

Excellent pod boys! Keep up the good work!

The city of angels is black and gold!

Defenders of the Banc - The LAFC Podcast

It's time for Episode 6, and this one is a special double-length episode. Yes, we know 90 minutes is a lot, but this time, Filly and The Scarf brought a friend! Edgar "El Catrin Muerto" Contreras joins the boys for their first interview in Defenders of the Banc history. A member of the 3252, Cuervos SG, and a true LAFC super-fan, Filly and The Scarf chat with Edgar about the story behind El Catrin Muerto, his experiences in the 3252 and on game day, and much, much more!Also part of Episode 6, Filly and the Scarf discuss the great 4-1 win over Vissel Kobe, recap another sparkling performance for the USMNT with more contributions from Walker Zimmerman and Christian Ramirez, and give a quick rundown of the remaining preseason schedule for the Black and Gold!Of course, no episode would be complete without the usual tangents and fun! The Scarf gives further proof of how big of a nerd he is (Star Trek AND Star Wars?!), Filly goes an entire episode without a wrestling reference (but he does sing!), and El Catrin implores the merch team to make that sweet grey jersey available to us all! Enjoy Episode 6 while you're getting everything ready for that other "football" game today!

It's time for Episode 6, and this one is a special double-length episode. Yes, we know 90 minutes is a lot, but this time, Filly and The Scarf brought a friend! Edgar "El Catrin Muerto" Contreras joins the boys for their first interview in Defenders of the Banc history. A member of the 3252, Cuervos SG, and a true LAFC super-fan, Filly and The Scarf chat with Edgar about the story behind El Catrin Muerto, his experiences in the 3252 and on game day, and much, much more! Also part of Episode 6, Filly and the Scarf discuss the great 4-1 win over Vissel Kobe, recap another sparkling performance for the USMNT with more contributions from Walker Zimmerman and Christian Ramirez, and give a quick rundown of the remaining preseason schedule for the Black and Gold! Of course, no episode would be complete without the usual tangents and fun! The Scarf gives further proof of how big of a nerd he is (Star Trek AND Star Wars?!), Filly goes an entire episode without a wrestling reference (but he does sing!), and El Catrin implores the merch team to make that sweet grey jersey available to us all! Enjoy Episode 6 while you're getting everything ready for that other "football" game today!

Episode 6: El Catrin Muerto joins Filly and The Scarf! Our First Interview!

Welcome to Episode 15, The Pillage of Smurf Village! Finally, The Scarf... has come back... from Peru! The boys catch up on all things LAFC as well as their usual birthdays and "This Day In LAFC History" segments, and so much more!In Episode 15, Christian and J.R. breakdown the beatdown that was a 5-0 victory over the San Jose Quakes on the road. Re-live every stunning detail, from Tyler Miller's first clean sheet of the season to the MLS Player of the Week performance by our captain, Carlos Vela. In addition, the boys highlight a possible NEW supporters group for military veterans, they bring you all the details on a great watch party at The Slidebar in Fullerton, and they pull back the curtain on the first official Defenders of the Banc tailgate, happening April 21 before the home game against Seattle. Of course, no episode would be complete without a wrestling reference courtesy of Filly, a mention of Obi-Wan Kenobi by Scarf, and a look at the top of the standings in the Western Conference five games in to the season! Finally, the boys make their LLC official, reveal the first ever DOTB scarf, and pay a short tribute to Los Angeles legend Nipsey Hussle. What more could you ask for?

Welcome to Episode 15, The Pillage of Smurf Village! Finally, The Scarf... has come back... from Peru! The boys catch up on all things LAFC as well as their usual birthdays and "This Day In LAFC History" segments, and so much more! In Episode 15, Christian and J.R. breakdown the beatdown that was a 5-0 victory over the San Jose Quakes on the road. Re-live every stunning detail, from Tyler Miller's first clean sheet of the season to the MLS Player of the Week performance by our captain, Carlos Vela. In addition, the boys highlight a possible NEW supporters group for military veterans, they bring you all the details on a great watch party at The Slidebar in Fullerton, and they pull back the curtain on the first official Defenders of the Banc tailgate, happening April 21 before the home game against Seattle.  Of course, no episode would be complete without a wrestling reference courtesy of Filly, a mention of Obi-Wan Kenobi by Scarf, and a look at the top of the standings in the Western Conference five games in to the season! Finally, the boys make their LLC official, reveal the first ever DOTB scarf, and pay a short tribute to Los Angeles legend Nipsey Hussle. What more could you ask for?

Episode 15 - The Pillage In Smurf Village

Happy 2019 from Filly and The Scarf! It's our first episode of the new year, and boy are we excited to be back talking all things Black and Gold!In this episode of Defenders of the Banc, the boys cover a wide range of topics. Back in Black and Gold: Jordan Harvey, Walker Zimmerman, Dejan Jakovic, and Danilo Silva all re-sign just in time for 2019! Vissel Kobe is coming: On January 31, the newest Japanese super team, featuring David Villa, Andres Iniesta, and Lukas Podolski come to the Banc to take on LAFC! The 2019 MLS Superdraft: Peter-Lee Vassell, Javi Perez, and Kevin Mendoza added to the ranks of the Black and Gold via the draft. Barcelona and Carlos Vela rumors abound! Will the superstar be leaving LAFC? (Spoiler alert... No. He's staying!) The regular season games we are most looking forward to! (Other than the two against Carson.)And so much more! Christian "Filly" Filimon gushes about Indiana University Soccer and his love for the German National Team, "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert survives a bit of a holiday health scare, the boys discuss their New Year's resolutions, and we remember the great Sigi Schmid. Enjoy Episode 4!

Happy 2019 from Filly and The Scarf! It's our first episode of the new year, and boy are we excited to be back talking all things Black and Gold! In this episode of Defenders of the Banc, the boys cover a wide range of topics. Back in Black and Gold: Jordan Harvey, Walker Zimmerman, Dejan Jakovic, and Danilo Silva all re-sign just in time for 2019! Vissel Kobe is coming: On January 31, the newest Japanese super team, featuring David Villa, Andres Iniesta, and Lukas Podolski come to the Banc to take on LAFC! The 2019 MLS Superdraft: Peter-Lee Vassell, Javi Perez, and Kevin Mendoza added to the ranks of the Black and Gold via the draft. Barcelona and Carlos Vela rumors abound! Will the superstar be leaving LAFC? (Spoiler alert... No. He's staying!) The regular season games we are most looking forward to! (Other than the two against Carson.) And so much more! Christian "Filly" Filimon gushes about Indiana University Soccer and his love for the German National Team, "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert survives a bit of a holiday health scare, the boys discuss their New Year's resolutions, and we remember the great Sigi Schmid. Enjoy Episode 4!

Episode 4: The Preseason Has Started!

It's been a few weeks since your boys Christian "Filly" Filimon and "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert were able to sit down and record. There is SO MUCH to catch up on! Now that Filly is back from Australia, it's time to delve into everything that happened since. There's never been a better time for Episode 9!In this episode, we discuss the MANY new signings to the Black and Gold roster (Including goalies! Finally!), our final two preseason contests, a rumored member of the Azzurri training with the club, an incredible event hosted by Niky's Sports featuring Rich Orosco, the TWO new jerseys launched over the weekend (with a new scarf!), and so much more!What does The Scarf have planned for the big announcement on Episode 10 of the podcast? Will Filly's new song make it into the 3252's chant list? (No.) Has the team started selling those sweet on-field socks we have been clamoring for? (Also, no.) Listen to Episode 9 to hear about all this and even more, including shoutouts to The Commander, "El Mayor" Julio, The Los Angeles Krew, Expo Monty, Maurice Edu, Poison Johnny, and more of our friends! 

It's been a few weeks since your boys Christian "Filly" Filimon and "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert were able to sit down and record. There is SO MUCH to catch up on! Now that Filly is back from Australia, it's time to delve into everything that happened since. There's never been a better time for Episode 9! In this episode, we discuss the MANY new signings to the Black and Gold roster (Including goalies! Finally!), our final two preseason contests, a rumored member of the Azzurri training with the club, an incredible event hosted by Niky's Sports featuring Rich Orosco, the TWO new jerseys launched over the weekend (with a new scarf!), and so much more! What does The Scarf have planned for the big announcement on Episode 10 of the podcast? Will Filly's new song make it into the 3252's chant list? (No.) Has the team started selling those sweet on-field socks we have been clamoring for? (Also, no.) Listen to Episode 9 to hear about all this and even more, including shoutouts to The Commander, "El Mayor" Julio, The Los Angeles Krew, Expo Monty, Maurice Edu, Poison Johnny, and more of our friends!

Episode 9: Gearing Up for the Start of Season Two!

The Cathedral of the Black and Gold welcomes the faithful and the spirited of LAFC as Liga MX foe Leon enters their worst nightmare, the den of the 3252, to take on LAFC in the second leg of Round 1 of the CONCACAF Champions League tournament. In what would turn out to be a historic night for LAFC, the boys would go on to not only defeat Leon but advance in the CCL, 3-2 on aggregate, and secure a date with Cruz Azul in Round 2. We're off to Mexico City!Episode 85 of Defenders of the Banc, the LAFC Podcast for the People, recaps the amazing night at the Banc. The incredible tifo. The return of Eduard Atuesta. The amazing play by our back line, allowing zero shots on target. The dominant play of Diego Rossi, reminding so many why he was courted in Europe for much of last season. And of course, the left foot of God and another brace by our MVP, Carlos Vela. Hear all the details of our 3-0 win!No episode is complete without This Day In LAFC, but this one is a short segment consisting of three birthdays. Whose birthdays? Take a listen! LAFC News and Notes renews our contract with ESPN, delves into another trade with Nashville, bids farewell to an LAFC owner, and examines the expectations put upon the MLS by another owner.We debut our new segment "Catching Up with Cruz Azul" as we put "Looking at Leon" to bed. We take our first look at the 92-year old Liga MX power, Cruz Azul, and the football landmark that is Estadio Azteca. Finally, "Scheduling with The Scarf" makes its 2020 debut, covering all 5 games in March. The month may be hectic, but Scarf is there to break it all down for you. Which two bands would Filly love to see in concert at Azteca? With the 3-0 win, is the hashtag #BlameFilly finally dead? Where did Scarf's voice go? All these questions and more are answered on Episode 85 of Defenders of the Banc!

The Cathedral of the Black and Gold welcomes the faithful and the spirited of LAFC as Liga MX foe Leon enters their worst nightmare, the den of the 3252, to take on LAFC in the second leg of Round 1 of the CONCACAF Champions League tournament.  In what would turn out to be a historic night for LAFC, the boys would go on to not only defeat Leon but advance in the CCL, 3-2 on aggregate, and secure a date with Cruz Azul in Round 2. We're off to Mexico City! Episode 85 of Defenders of the Banc, the LAFC Podcast for the People, recaps the amazing night at the Banc. The incredible tifo. The return of Eduard Atuesta. The amazing play by our back line, allowing zero shots on target. The dominant play of Diego Rossi, reminding so many why he was courted in Europe for much of last season. And of course, the left foot of God and another brace by our MVP, Carlos Vela. Hear all the details of our 3-0 win! No episode is complete without This Day In LAFC, but this one is a short segment consisting of three birthdays. Whose birthdays? Take a listen! LAFC News and Notes renews our contract with ESPN, delves into another trade with Nashville, bids farewell to an LAFC owner, and examines the expectations put upon the MLS by another owner. We debut our new segment "Catching Up with Cruz Azul" as we put "Looking at Leon" to bed. We take our first look at the 92-year old Liga MX power, Cruz Azul, and the football landmark that is Estadio Azteca.  Finally, "Scheduling with The Scarf" makes its 2020 debut, covering all 5 games in March. The month may be hectic, but Scarf is there to break it all down for you.  Which two bands would Filly love to see in concert at Azteca? With the 3-0 win, is the hashtag #BlameFilly finally dead? Where did Scarf's voice go? All these questions and more are answered on Episode 85 of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 85 - Dominating Leon At Home

Welcome to Episode 23, fellow Defenders! Happy days are here again! Happy Mother's Day! Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Happy Nurses Week! Aaaaaaand... Happy 3-0 victory over Columbus on the road!As LAFC get back to their winning ways, Filly and The Scarf break down the beat down at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus. A dominant performance by the back line complemented the offense getting back on track in the best way, with scoring coming from players NOT named Rossi or Vela... and then also Vela! Hear all about the big victory on this episode!Also on this episode, plenty of LAFC news and notes: Laurent Ciman goes down injured for Toronto, former GK Charlie Lyon gets picked up by Philadelphia while Scarf learns all about the free agent GK pool in MLS, the August home match against Carson has its kickoff time moved back a half hour, and so much more!Finally, The Defenders want YOU to join them in Carson to watch Phoenix Rising FC take on Galaxy II in August! We'll be giving away 20 tickets to the match, so stay tuned to our Instagram for more details! Free tickets? $2 tacos and $2 beers? Let's go!It's another jam-packed episode of Defenders of the Banc, complete with a slightly-less-than-sober Filly, a soon-to-be-sleep deprived Scarf, and lots of love shown to both Mama Filly and Mama Scarf. Enjoy this special Mother's Day edition of Defenders of the Banc! 

Welcome to Episode 23, fellow Defenders! Happy days are here again! Happy Mother's Day! Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Happy Nurses Week! Aaaaaaand... Happy 3-0 victory over Columbus on the road! As LAFC get back to their winning ways, Filly and The Scarf break down the beat down at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus. A dominant performance by the back line complemented the offense getting back on track in the best way, with scoring coming from players NOT named Rossi or Vela... and then also Vela! Hear all about the big victory on this episode! Also on this episode, plenty of LAFC news and notes: Laurent Ciman goes down injured for Toronto, former GK Charlie Lyon gets picked up by Philadelphia while Scarf learns all about the free agent GK pool in MLS, the August home match against Carson has its kickoff time moved back a half hour, and so much more! Finally, The Defenders want YOU to join them in Carson to watch Phoenix Rising FC take on Galaxy II in August! We'll be giving away 20 tickets to the match, so stay tuned to our Instagram for more details! Free tickets? $2 tacos and $2 beers? Let's go! It's another jam-packed episode of Defenders of the Banc, complete with a slightly-less-than-sober Filly, a soon-to-be-sleep deprived Scarf, and lots of love shown to both Mama Filly and Mama Scarf. Enjoy this special Mother's Day edition of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 23 - Winning In Columbus Isn't For Everybody... But It Is For Us!

It's time for the final episode in May, and what a May it was! Carlitos vaults to the top of the MVP race, LAFC stays at the top of the table, and we end the month with a wonderful early celebration of pride, inclusion, and Soccer For All. LAFC played their last MLS regular season home game for over a month against Montreal. In what turned out to be just as exciting as last year's eight goal thriller, the boys in Black and Gold handle their business at the Banc yet again, taking all 3 points in a 4-2 victory. It was the best atmosphere all season at the Banc! In what will be known as the "Tifo Seen 'Round the World", The 3252 did it again with an incredible "We Will Rock You" Freddie Mercury themed creation that brought everyone to their feet! Pride was everywhere at the Banc, with rainbow armbands, rainbow warm-up jerseys, and our LAFC letters painted rainbow in honor of Pride Month. Roaring out to a 4-0 lead, LAFC's offense put on a show! Christian Ramirez with a wonderful hustle goal after a howler of an effort by Montreal's Evan Bush, the Left Foot of God striking once again, Latif blessing the Banc with a goal, and just as Scarf-strodamus predicted last episode, Tristan Blackmon got the start for the injured Steven Beitashour. After putting in a great first half on defense, Vela found an unmarked Blackmon in the box, who headed it home and the rout was on! Hear all about the 4-2 win, including the boys' "Wait, Whaaaaat?!" moment with Will Ferrell, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Penn, Montreal fans join in the "Jump For LA Football Club" cheer, the debut of Silly and The Barf, and not one but TWO great giveaways! Enjoy Episode 27 of Defenders of the Banc!

It's time for the final episode in May, and what a May it was! Carlitos vaults to the top of the MVP race, LAFC stays at the top of the table, and we end the month with a wonderful early celebration of pride, inclusion, and Soccer For All. LAFC played their last MLS regular season home game for over a month against Montreal. In what turned out to be just as exciting as last year's eight goal thriller, the boys in Black and Gold handle their business at the Banc yet again, taking all 3 points in a 4-2 victory.  It was the best atmosphere all season at the Banc! In what will be known as the "Tifo Seen 'Round the World", The 3252 did it again with an incredible "We Will Rock You" Freddie Mercury themed creation that brought everyone to their feet! Pride was everywhere at the Banc, with rainbow armbands, rainbow warm-up jerseys, and our LAFC letters painted rainbow in honor of Pride Month.  Roaring out to a 4-0 lead, LAFC's offense put on a show! Christian Ramirez with a wonderful hustle goal after a howler of an effort by Montreal's Evan Bush, the Left Foot of God striking once again, Latif blessing the Banc with a goal, and just as Scarf-strodamus predicted last episode, Tristan Blackmon got the start for the injured Steven Beitashour. After putting in a great first half on defense, Vela found an unmarked Blackmon in the box, who headed it home and the rout was on!  Hear all about the 4-2 win, including the boys' "Wait, Whaaaaat?!" moment with Will Ferrell, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Penn, Montreal fans join in the "Jump For LA Football Club" cheer, the debut of Silly and The Barf, and not one but TWO great giveaways! Enjoy Episode 27 of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 27 - Pride, Passion, and Plenty of Goals, Eh?

Where in the world is JR “The Scarf” Lebert? In this episode we feature two important women in our lives as cohosts, @lafcnina (Scarfette) &amp; @amandabrooke32 the (Panda). We recap the RSL game and that magical goal in stoppage time by @walkerzimmerman. We also talk briefly about the Pandas LA Marathon Run, some important information regarding the LAFC family, and highlight the watch party happening down in OC for the San Jose game. Get ready to hear Filly try to hold his own against the ladies behind DOTB! 

Where in the world is JR “The Scarf” Lebert? In this episode we feature two important women in our lives as cohosts, @lafcnina (Scarfette) &amp; @amandabrooke32 the (Panda). We recap the RSL game and that magical goal in stoppage time by @walkerzimmerman. We also talk briefly about the Pandas LA Marathon Run, some important information regarding the LAFC family, and highlight the watch party happening down in OC for the San Jose game. Get ready to hear Filly try to hold his own against the ladies behind DOTB!

Episode 14: Hi Felicia, Avenger of The Banc

Welcome to Episode 21 of Defenders of the Banc with Christian "Filly" Filimon and "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert. As we hit our 21st episode, LAFC seems to have hit a little bump in the road with their scoreless home draw against the uninspiring Chicago Fire. The boys dissect the draw, including their thoughts on pushing more defenders forward, Lee Nguyen's crisp passing and its effect on the entire team, the return of Dio, and another clean sheet by Tyler Miller. Of course, no episode is complete without a trip in the way-back machine in This Day in LAFC History! Find out what major moment in our club's early history occurred this week. In addition to the usual banter, the Defenders talk about the newest scarf to sell out at LAFC HQ, they run through a brief history of the reasons behind celebrating Cinco de Mayo (it's NOT Mexican Independence Day!), they highlight another successful tailgate, and they hint at a fun event coming up in August in... Carson, of all places. Where else can you listen to Filly fan-boy hard over Bastian Schweinsteiger or Scarf wish a very happy birthday to the beautiful Danielle Fishel (Topanga!)? Who will be the Defenders' first player interview? (We've already recorded it!) All this and more is yours to hear on Episode 21 of Defenders of the Banc! 

Welcome to Episode 21 of Defenders of the Banc with Christian "Filly" Filimon and "The Scarf" J.R. Lebert. As we hit our 21st episode, LAFC seems to have hit a little bump in the road with their scoreless home draw against the uninspiring Chicago Fire.  The boys dissect the draw, including their thoughts on pushing more defenders forward, Lee Nguyen's crisp passing and its effect on the entire team, the return of Dio, and another clean sheet by Tyler Miller.  Of course, no episode is complete without a trip in the way-back machine in This Day in LAFC History! Find out what major moment in our club's early history occurred this week. In addition to the usual banter, the Defenders talk about the newest scarf to sell out at LAFC HQ, they run through a brief history of the reasons behind celebrating Cinco de Mayo (it's NOT Mexican Independence Day!), they highlight another successful tailgate, and they hint at a fun event coming up in August in... Carson, of all places.  Where else can you listen to Filly fan-boy hard over Bastian Schweinsteiger or Scarf wish a very happy birthday to the beautiful Danielle Fishel (Topanga!)? Who will be the Defenders' first player interview? (We've already recorded it!) All this and more is yours to hear on Episode 21 of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 21 - Cinco de... Cero

Cassie Riddle

Panda and Scarfette take over Filimonster Studios again, this time bringing on the First Lady of The 3252, Cassie Riddle, for a special interview episode following the Pride Parade.After a brief recap of Pride, the ladies dive in, getting to know Cassie and her life as a teacher, student, and core member of Black Army and The 3252.Find out about Cassie’s take on the first ever engagement at The Banc, her favorite chants, what it’s like to be a drummer in the North End, and who on LAFC she finds most attractive (spoiler: it’s not a player)! Most importantly, learn about how you can support Juan and his family as he recovers from surgery.Enjoy another special episode featuring the ladies of Defenders of the Banc!

Panda and Scarfette take over Filimonster Studios again, this time bringing on the First Lady of The 3252, Cassie Riddle, for a special interview episode following the Pride Parade.After a brief recap of Pride, the ladies dive in, getting to know Cassie and her life as a teacher, student, and core member of Black Army and The 3252.Find out about Cassie’s take on the first ever engagement at The Banc, her favorite chants, what it’s like to be a drummer in the North End, and who on LAFC she finds most attractive (spoiler: it’s not a player)! Most importantly, learn about how you can support Juan and his family as he recovers from surgery. Enjoy another special episode featuring the ladies of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 30 - Meet The Thunder (feat. Cassie Riddle, The First Lady of the 3252)

Welcome to Episode 20, our second episode in as many weeks about a game between your Los Angeles Football Club and Seattle. A different week yields a different result, and the boys recap the frustrating 1-1 tie played in Seattle at CenturyLink Field.While the game takes up the bulk of our episode, there's always so much more to every episode of Defenders of the Banc! Our episode kicks off with a fond farewell: After wishing Oscar Schindler and Harper Lee a very happy birthday, Filly and The Scarf ceremoniously say goodbye to the "Birthdays" segment. You had a good run, kid, but all good things must come to an end. In addition, Filly and The Scarf recount the amazing time they had at Iron Triangle Brewing, the location for the official watch party for Black Army 1850 and The Krew. Hank, Jimmy, and everyone in both SG's were wonderful hosts, and the day even included an appearance from the Falconer himself, Ken Miknuk, who brought along Mel. Finally, the boys unveil plans for their next tailgate, before the upcoming game against Chicago on May 4th (Star Wars Day!).What will Filly and Panda's matching Star Wars-themed LAFC costumes be? Will "Scarf" Vader make an appearance? What was their "Wait... What?" moment of this episode? Tune in to find out all that and more on Episode 20 of Defenders of the Banc!

Welcome to Episode 20, our second episode in as many weeks about a game between your Los Angeles Football Club and Seattle. A different week yields a different result, and the boys recap the frustrating 1-1 tie played in Seattle at CenturyLink Field. While the game takes up the bulk of our episode, there's always so much more to every episode of Defenders of the Banc! Our episode kicks off with a fond farewell: After wishing Oscar Schindler and Harper Lee a very happy birthday, Filly and The Scarf ceremoniously say goodbye to the "Birthdays" segment. You had a good run, kid, but all good things must come to an end. In addition, Filly and The Scarf recount the amazing time they had at Iron Triangle Brewing, the location for the official watch party for Black Army 1850 and The Krew. Hank, Jimmy, and everyone in both SG's were wonderful hosts, and the day even included an appearance from the Falconer himself, Ken Miknuk, who brought along Mel. Finally, the boys unveil plans for their next tailgate, before the upcoming game against Chicago on May 4th (Star Wars Day!). What will Filly and Panda's matching Star Wars-themed LAFC costumes be? Will "Scarf" Vader make an appearance? What was their "Wait... What?" moment of this episode? Tune in to find out all that and more on Episode 20 of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 20 - Seattle Grunge

The Open Cup has started and the Defenders are back together! Episode 31 is here, and its time to recap yet another victory over Real Salt Lake. Reunited, and it feels so good!On this episode, hear the boys recap the 3-0 shellacking in Sandy, Utah in the first game for LAFC in the 2019 edition of the Lamar Hunt Open Cup. No Tyler Miller, no Walker Zimmerman, no Steven Beitashour, and no Mark-Anthony Kaye? No problem! Hear all about the debut of Pablo Sisniega, the return of Lee Nguyen to the starting lineup, and one other minor detail... the much anticipated first appearance of Fito Zelaya! Of course, there also This Day in LA History, a very brief appearance by Panda, and plenty more! It's time to catch Open Cup fever, Defenders! Enjoy episode 31 while you get ready for the round of 16 of the Open Cup! Happy birthday Jimmy!

The Open Cup has started and the Defenders are back together! Episode 31 is here, and its time to recap yet another victory over Real Salt Lake. Reunited, and it feels so good!On this episode, hear the boys recap the 3-0 shellacking in Sandy, Utah in the first game for LAFC in the 2019 edition of the Lamar Hunt Open Cup. No Tyler Miller, no Walker Zimmerman, no Steven Beitashour, and no Mark-Anthony Kaye? No problem! Hear all about the debut of Pablo Sisniega, the return of Lee Nguyen to the starting lineup, and one other minor detail... the much anticipated first appearance of Fito Zelaya! Of course, there also This Day in LA History, a very brief appearance by Panda, and plenty more! It's time to catch Open Cup fever, Defenders! Enjoy episode 31 while you get ready for the round of 16 of the Open Cup! Happy birthday Jimmy!

Episode 31 - Pablo and Fito, Oh My!!!

Welcome to Episode 19, where Filly and The Scarf are back at it after the mid-week debacle in Canada. What a difference a game makes, as the Black and Gold right the ship against the Sounders!In this Episode, the Defenders recap the exciting statement win at The Banc over Seattle. With the 4-1 victory, LAFC stands firmly atop the Western Conference and widens their goal differential even further. Hear all about each of the four goals, another MVP performance by Carlitos, a hat-trick of assists for Mark-Anthony Kaye, a rebound performance by Christian Ramirez, the return of Lee Nguyen, and so much more!Also in this episode, the boys get a little help from Panda and Scarfette (and many others) in pulling off the first official Defenders of the Banc tailgate! Free tacos by Chef Zo, free beer by Riley's Brewing, and the Instagram Live raffle of a Golazo scarf and a 2019 Parley jersey were just some of the highlights of an amazing Easter Sunday at The Banc. It's the first Defenders episode with Filly, The Scarf, Panda, and Scarlet ALL on the same episode! Happy birthday to Kilimanjaro Steve, congrats on the triumvirate of teammates making the MLS Team of the Week, and Happy Easter to all of The Defenders who listen to and support our podcast! Please enjoy Episode 19 of Defenders of the Banc!

Welcome to Episode 19, where Filly and The Scarf are back at it after the mid-week debacle in Canada. What a difference a game makes, as the Black and Gold right the ship against the Sounders! In this Episode, the Defenders recap the exciting statement win at The Banc over Seattle. With the 4-1 victory, LAFC stands firmly atop the Western Conference and widens their goal differential even further. Hear all about each of the four goals, another MVP performance by Carlitos, a hat-trick of assists for Mark-Anthony Kaye, a rebound performance by Christian Ramirez, the return of Lee Nguyen, and so much more! Also in this episode, the boys get a little help from Panda and Scarfette (and many others) in pulling off the first official Defenders of the Banc tailgate! Free tacos by Chef Zo, free beer by Riley's Brewing, and the Instagram Live raffle of a Golazo scarf and a 2019 Parley jersey were just some of the highlights of an amazing Easter Sunday at The Banc.  It's the first Defenders episode with Filly, The Scarf, Panda, and Scarlet ALL on the same episode! Happy birthday to Kilimanjaro Steve, congrats on the triumvirate of teammates making the MLS Team of the Week, and Happy Easter to all of The Defenders who listen to and support our podcast! Please enjoy Episode 19 of Defenders of the Banc!

Episode 19 - Silencing the Sounders

Away Days in Leon. Just typing the words brings me (Scarf) back to tacos and seafood, a few too many tequila shots, and the incredible atmosphere inside Estadio Leon, home of Los Panzas Verdes, Club Leon FC. Welcome to Episode 83. What Tom Hanks was to Cast Away, Scarf is to this episode. Alone. With Nina in Anaheim and Filly and Panda in Rome, it's all Scarf, all the time on Episode 83. But don't worry! Scarf keeps it pretty short, barely topping the 30-minute mark as he recaps the events in Leon as the Black and Gold make their CONCACAF Champions League debut down in Mexico. No episode would be complete without This Day in LAFC History, so it's here, along with LAFC News and Notes, our newest segment, Looking At Leon, and a little bit about our first tailgate and our next episode. A big shoutout to our capos and drummers in Leon, as they were the real heroes of the evening! How did our drummers drum without bringing drums? How did our capos...er... capo (?) without a capo stand? How did our fans cheer and sing without water? You'll have to tune in to Episode 83 to find out! Just 6 more days until the start of the MLS regular season, and we will be there for every kick, save, and shooey! 

Away Days in Leon. Just typing the words brings me (Scarf) back to tacos and seafood, a few too many tequila shots, and the incredible atmosphere inside Estadio Leon, home of Los Panzas Verdes, Club Leon FC.  Welcome to Episode 83. What Tom Hanks was to Cast Away, Scarf is to this episode. Alone. With Nina in Anaheim and Filly and Panda in Rome, it's all Scarf, all the time on Episode 83. But don't worry! Scarf keeps it pretty short, barely topping the 30-minute mark as he recaps the events in Leon as the Black and Gold make their CONCACAF Champions League debut down in Mexico.  No episode would be complete without This Day in LAFC History, so it's here, along with LAFC News and Notes, our newest segment, Looking At Leon, and a little bit about our first tailgate and our next episode.  A big shoutout to our capos and drummers in Leon, as they were the real heroes of the evening! How did our drummers drum without bringing drums? How did our capos...er... capo (?) without a capo stand? How did our fans cheer and sing without water? You'll have to tune in to Episode 83 to find out!  Just 6 more days until the start of the MLS regular season, and we will be there for every kick, save, and shooey!

Episode 83 - 3 Days in Leon

Alina Beruff

Oh yes, it’s Ladies Night!The Defenders of the Banc turn the episode over to Panda (@amandabrooke32 ) and Scarfette (@lafcnina) in celebration of Ladies Night. The girls cover highlights of the female-focused match centering on the amazing career of Mia Hamm, one of LAFC’s owners, and the recent USWNT game, looking towards the start of the Women’s World Cup.Of course, we discuss game stats and highlights (some record breaking) and bring on the tornado in heels, Alina Beruff, Executive Director of the LAFC Foundation, for a special interview. Alina talks about her history with the club, the sauce for success, and how you can get involved with the LAFC Foundation.We hope you enjoy this special takeover episode. Please visit the LAFC Foundation behind section 135 at the next home game!

Oh yes, it’s Ladies Night! The Defenders of the Banc turn the episode over to Panda (@amandabrooke32 ) and Scarfette (@lafcnina) in celebration of Ladies Night.  The girls cover highlights of the female-focused match centering on the amazing career of Mia Hamm, one of LAFC’s owners, and the recent USWNT game, looking towards the start of the Women’s World Cup. Of course, we discuss game stats and highlights (some record breaking) and bring on the tornado in heels, Alina Beruff, Executive Director of the LAFC Foundation, for a special interview. Alina talks about her history with the club, the sauce for success, and how you can get involved with the LAFC Foundation. We hope you enjoy this special takeover episode. Please visit the LAFC Foundation behind section 135 at the next home game!

Episode 24 - Oh, This Is Ladies Night, Oh, What a Night! (feat. Alina Beruff of LAFC Foundation)

Reunited... And it feels so good! Filly is back from Italy, and just in time, too! It's time to celebrate the 31st birthday of the greatest player in team history and the owner of the left foot of God, Carlos Vela! In honor of Carlos's birthday, footballing legend David Beckham and his Inter Miami CF have been invited to the Banc to kickoff MLS's 25th season and the third season for your boys in Black and Gold!While it wasn't quite the 3-0 beatdown of Leon, LAFC do everything they need to in a 1-0 win against the Fighting Ibises of Fort Lauderdale. A world-class chip by Carlitos, his gift to us all on his birthday, was enough to secure all three points. 6 saves by the Vermeer Wall and excellent play by Eddie Segura once again was all we needed to start the year off right.Why were the boys singing Will Smith? What was Filly ranting about now? And why did Scarf get a hug from David Beckham? You'll have to listen to Episode 86 to find out. This is the way!

Reunited... And it feels so good! Filly is back from Italy, and just in time, too! It's time to celebrate the 31st birthday of the greatest player in team history and the owner of the left foot of God, Carlos Vela! In honor of Carlos's birthday, footballing legend David Beckham and his Inter Miami CF have been invited to the Banc to kickoff MLS's 25th season and the third season for your boys in Black and Gold! While it wasn't quite the 3-0 beatdown of Leon, LAFC do everything they need to in a 1-0 win against the Fighting Ibises of Fort Lauderdale. A world-class chip by Carlitos, his gift to us all on his birthday, was enough to secure all three points. 6 saves by the Vermeer Wall and excellent play by Eddie Segura once again was all we needed to start the year off right. Why were the boys singing Will Smith? What was Filly ranting about now? And why did Scarf get a hug from David Beckham? You'll have to listen to Episode 86 to find out. This is the way!

Episode 86 - Vela's Birthday Party

At about 6:30 on the evening of January 25, four goalies walk out together in unison, and the 3252 lets out their first loud cheer of the evening. Banc of California, the Cathedral of the Black and Gold, is officially alive again! Preseason is upon us, and Uruguayan powerhouse Peñarol visits the Banc for an international friendly! Filly and the Scarf were not only there to witness it, but thanks to Aubrey, we covered it as "media"! In a first for the boys, we were actually in our Sunday best at the Cathedral, wearing jeans and button-up shirts and sitting in the press box.Before the recap of the 2-0 friendly victory over Peñarol, This Day In LAFC History takes us through the end of January, including an international friendly win from 2019. LAFC News and Notes is packed full of good stuff, including a date change on the LAFC calendar. Make sure you update your plans to see FC Dallas at home in September! Walker Zimmerman will likely make another appearance for the USMNT, as he was named to the final 22 slated to train for their friendly against Costa Rica at a park in Carson. LAFC signs a Homegrown Player for what might be the first time in club history, so this seems like a good time to break down what a Homegrown Player actually is. Scarf is still confused at how Bryce Duke can be a Homegrown for LAFC...The Defenders also debut a new segment, Looking To Leon, as Scarf gives a quick recap of Leon's first three games in the 2020 edition of Liga MX's Clausura. Here's a hint: Leon is doing well. The meat and potatoes of the episode, however, is the recap of the win against Peñarol. History was made at the Banc as five LAFC Academy players took the pitch for reals as a member of the Black and Gold, or in today's case, the grey and white. The Defenders couldn't be more proud of Erik, Christian, Tony, Armando, and Diego for the way they represented the Academy and LAFC on the pitch tonight. And we know that if Mauricio hadn't picked up a small injury this week in training, he would have been out there, too. What a night for the Academy!Will it be Vermeer or Sisniega between the pipes? Both looked really good tonight in limited chances, but it was the Dutch master who took Save of the Match honors. The Phoenix Rising connection is still alive and well, as three members from one of our favorite USL squads took the pitch for the Black and Gold tonight. In all, 26 players, including three draft picks from the 2020 SuperDraft, took the pitch against Peñarol. Which Liverpool star does Bob compare Adrien Perez to in the post-game news conference? Which other player in the USMNT camp has his team sweating as they prepare for Champions League play? Which polarizing media member wants to come on the podcast to prove they aren't a Carson homer? Which member of Peñarol got the loudest cheers in the second half on Saturday? And why did Scarf bring up Fito again? You'll have to listen to Episode 79 to find out the answers to all these questions and more! See you next time for #80!

<blockquote>At about 6:30 on the evening of January 25, four goalies walk out together in unison, and the 3252 lets out their first loud cheer of the evening. Banc of California, the Cathedral of the Black and Gold, is officially alive again!  Preseason is upon us, and Uruguayan powerhouse Peñarol visits the Banc for an international friendly! Filly and the Scarf were not only there to witness it, but thanks to Aubrey, we covered it as "media"! In a first for the boys, we were actually in our Sunday best at the Cathedral, wearing jeans and button-up shirts and sitting in the press box.</blockquote> <blockquote>Before the recap of the 2-0 friendly victory over Peñarol, This Day In LAFC History takes us through the end of January, including an international friendly win from 2019. </blockquote> <blockquote>LAFC News and Notes is packed full of good stuff, including a date change on the LAFC calendar. Make sure you update your plans to see FC Dallas at home in September! Walker Zimmerman will likely make another appearance for the USMNT, as he was named to the final 22 slated to train for their friendly against Costa Rica at a park in Carson. </blockquote> <blockquote>LAFC signs a Homegrown Player for what might be the first time in club history, so this seems like a good time to break down what a Homegrown Player actually is. Scarf is still confused at how Bryce Duke can be a Homegrown for LAFC...</blockquote> <blockquote>The Defenders also debut a new segment, Looking To Leon, as Scarf gives a quick recap of Leon's first three games in the 2020 edition of Liga MX's Clausura. Here's a hint: Leon is doing well. </blockquote> <blockquote>The meat and potatoes of the episode, however, is the recap of the win against Peñarol. History was made at the Banc as five LAFC Academy players took the pitch for reals as a member of the Black and Gold, or in today's case, the grey and white. The Defenders couldn't be more proud of Erik, Christian, Tony, Armando, and Diego for the way they represented the Academy and LAFC on the pitch tonight. And we know that if Mauricio hadn't picked up a small injury this week in training, he would have been out there, too. What a night for the Academy!</blockquote> <blockquote>Will it be Vermeer or Sisniega between the pipes? Both looked really good tonight in limited chances, but it was the Dutch master who took Save of the Match honors. The Phoenix Rising connection is still alive and well, as three members from one of our favorite USL squads took the pitch for the Black and Gold tonight. In all, 26 players, including three draft picks from the 2020 SuperDraft, took the pitch against Peñarol. </blockquote> <blockquote>Which Liverpool star does Bob compare Adrien Perez to in the post-game news conference? Which other player in the USMNT camp has his team sweating as they prepare for Champions League play? Which polarizing media member wants to come on the podcast to prove they aren't a Carson homer? Which member of Peñarol got the loudest cheers in the second half on Saturday? And why did Scarf bring up Fito again? You'll have to listen to Episode 79 to find out the answers to all these questions and more! See you next time for #80!</blockquote>

Episode 79 - Youth Gone Wild

Welcome to Episode 87 of the LAFC Podcast for the People, Defenders of the Banc! We head back at the Banc for the second match of the 2020 season. In town are the Philadelphia Union, and who could have predicted this match would have gone much like many of the boxing matches of Philly’s Finest Fictional Fighter, Rocky Balboa. It was a true back-and-forth affair, as LAFC played catch-up for the entire 90 minutes. Philly would score, and LAFC would respond. Philly got another, and then so did LAFC. When the dust settled, not only were Union players strewn all over the pitch, but the score was deadlocked at 3. Certainly not the result we wanted, but a point is a point. It was a long night and a long match, with kickoff being pushed back to just about 11:00pm Philly time, and the game’s final whistle blowing at just before 1:00am on the East Coast. Factor in an almost full moon and about 16 minutes of stoppage time and wow, it was a long, late one. In addition to the recap, we bring all the usual tomfoolery, including This Day In LAFC History, LAFC News and Notes, and the long-awaited return of our “Wait, What?” moment! Filly sings a popular jingle, Scarf regains a good portion of his voice, and the boys celebrate International Women’s Day as only we can, by recording an episode!A big congratulations to all the LA Marathon runners, a hearty shout out to the NWSL in LA movement, and a hefty congrats to Carlos Vela on goal number 50! Thanks again for listening to the most LAFC podcast on Earth!

Welcome to Episode 87 of the LAFC Podcast for the People, Defenders of the Banc! We head back at the Banc for the second match of the 2020 season. In town are the Philadelphia Union, and who could have predicted this match would have gone much like many of the boxing matches of Philly’s Finest Fictional Fighter, Rocky Balboa. It was a true back-and-forth affair, as LAFC played catch-up for the entire 90 minutes. Philly would score, and LAFC would respond. Philly got another, and then so did LAFC. When the dust settled, not only were Union players strewn all over the pitch, but the score was deadlocked at 3. Certainly not the result we wanted, but a point is a point. It was a long night and a long match, with kickoff being pushed back to just about 11:00pm Philly time, and the game’s final whistle blowing at just before 1:00am on the East Coast. Factor in an almost full moon and about 16 minutes of stoppage time and wow, it was a long, late one. In addition to the recap, we bring all the usual tomfoolery, including This Day In LAFC History, LAFC News and Notes, and the long-awaited return of our “Wait, What?” moment! Filly sings a popular jingle, Scarf regains a good portion of his voice, and the boys celebrate International Women’s Day as only we can, by recording an episode!A big congratulations to all the LA Marathon runners, a hearty shout out to the NWSL in LA movement, and a hefty congrats to Carlos Vela on goal number 50! Thanks again for listening to the most LAFC podcast on Earth!

Episode 87 - Philly Falls Into a Point

The preseason comes to a close with a mid-day, mid-week match against Toronto FC, and with that comes Episode 82 of the LAFC Podcast for the People, Defenders of the Banc!Walker Zimmerman was traded to Nashville SC. We didn't believe the headline when we read it, either, but it's true. Yes, it was for a potential record-setting amount of GAM for a defender, but, wow. Just like that, one of the key members of our record setting first two seasons is gone. It felt different than the departures of Tyler, or Lee, or Laurent. But the team presses on without him, and so do we.Just 6 days from the kickoff of CCL in Guanajuato, LAFC wraps up the 2020 preseason with a solid 3-1 win over Toronto. The start of the match felt a little different, as the Black and Gold played to a crowd much smaller than usual due to the noon kick time on a Wednesday. The pre-match festivities saw the debut of Sunny, the falcon named after Sunset Blvd. After her longer-than-usual flight, and in front of about 6,000 or so, our boys did not disappoint.  Brian Rodriguez got us on the board first on a pass from Carlos, and he nets his 3rd in as many games this preseason. We are really hoping this carries over into the regular season, CCL, and beyond! After Toronto tied things up at 1, it was our MVP's turn to get in on the action. This time, it wasn't a left-footed curler as much as it was a straight smash home to put LAFC back up 2-1.  In the 81st minute, another chapter in the LAFC history books was written, as Latif Blessing sets up LAFC Academy product Christian Torres for the goal, the first goal scored by an Academy player in team history. This might just be a preseason match, but it's moments like this that we can all build on and look optimistically toward the future. Congratulations to the 15 year old on his history making accomplishment.  Also on the episode, there is a Peter-Lee Vassell sighting in Denmark, a Locomotive trains with LAFC, a surprise trialist makes his mark in the final match before it gets real, Imad and Joe share a birthday, and Number Watch 2020 hits Day 64. Oh, and Filly sings Good Charlotte! But don't worry, no XFL news to be found.  It's on to Leon for Scarf, and Rome for Filly. Will we return from Leon with a point, three, or the dreaded zero? You'll have to tune into Episode 83 to find out!

The preseason comes to a close with a mid-day, mid-week match against Toronto FC, and with that comes Episode 82 of the LAFC Podcast for the People, Defenders of the Banc! Walker Zimmerman was traded to Nashville SC. We didn't believe the headline when we read it, either, but it's true. Yes, it was for a potential record-setting amount of GAM for a defender, but, wow. Just like that, one of the key members of our record setting first two seasons is gone. It felt different than the departures of Tyler, or Lee, or Laurent. But the team presses on without him, and so do we. Just 6 days from the kickoff of CCL in Guanajuato, LAFC wraps up the 2020 preseason with a solid 3-1 win over Toronto. The start of the match felt a little different, as the Black and Gold played to a crowd much smaller than usual due to the noon kick time on a Wednesday. The pre-match festivities saw the debut of Sunny, the falcon named after Sunset Blvd. After her longer-than-usual flight, and in front of about 6,000 or so, our boys did not disappoint.  Brian Rodriguez got us on the board first on a pass from Carlos, and he nets his 3rd in as many games this preseason. We are really hoping this carries over into the regular season, CCL, and beyond! After Toronto tied things up at 1, it was our MVP's turn to get in on the action. This time, it wasn't a left-footed curler as much as it was a straight smash home to put LAFC back up 2-1.  In the 81st minute, another chapter in the LAFC history books was written, as Latif Blessing sets up LAFC Academy product Christian Torres for the goal, the first goal scored by an Academy player in team history. This might just be a preseason match, but it's moments like this that we can all build on and look optimistically toward the future. Congratulations to the 15 year old on his history making accomplishment.  Also on the episode, there is a Peter-Lee Vassell sighting in Denmark, a Locomotive trains with LAFC, a surprise trialist makes his mark in the final match before it gets real, Imad and Joe share a birthday, and Number Watch 2020 hits Day 64. Oh, and Filly sings Good Charlotte! But don't worry, no XFL news to be found.  It's on to Leon for Scarf, and Rome for Filly. Will we return from Leon with a point, three, or the dreaded zero? You'll have to tune into Episode 83 to find out!

Episode 82 - The One Where The Academy Player Scores!

Alexis Guerreros

It's the second episode of 2020 for the Defenders, and it's our second HUGE interview of the season! Fresh off the heels of our sit-down with Stix, Filly and The Scarf are lucky enough to be joined by Alexis Guerreros, comedian, writer, American soccer defender, and one-half of the incredible podcasting duo known as The Cooligans!Over the course of 70 minutes, Alexis and the boys talk about pretty much everything under the sun! We pick his brain about how The Cooligans got their start, what makes them so successful, and how his parents are still trying to cope with the disappointment of their son not becoming a pitcher for the New York Yankees. We talk about the beautiful city of Newark, New Jersey, his relocation to New York, and his quest to take over both coasts' best stand-up spots. We couldn't let him go without discussing the best pizza in Los Angeles (@ApolloniasPizza), what the crowds are like in LA's comedy clubs, and his thoughts on Banc of California Stadium and The 3252 after attending last season's playoff win over Carson! Trust us, Alexis is hilarious, but he also bleeds American soccer!Julius Peppers makes another appearance on the pod as Alexis is baptized by the "Official Drink of Defenders of the Banc!" Also on the episode, be sure to listen for the way to score up to $20 off your next bar or food tab at Free Play while supporting the ThinkWatts Foundation! Stay tuned for our next episode later in the week, recapping the 2020 MLS SuperDraft, the recent moves made by LAFC (Is Fito finito?), and so much more! 

It's the second episode of 2020 for the Defenders, and it's our second HUGE interview of the season! Fresh off the heels of our sit-down with Stix, Filly and The Scarf are lucky enough to be joined by Alexis Guerreros, comedian, writer, American soccer defender, and one-half of the incredible podcasting duo known as The Cooligans! Over the course of 70 minutes, Alexis and the boys talk about pretty much everything under the sun! We pick his brain about how The Cooligans got their start, what makes them so successful, and how his parents are still trying to cope with the disappointment of their son not becoming a pitcher for the New York Yankees. We talk about the beautiful city of Newark, New Jersey, his relocation to New York, and his quest to take over both coasts' best stand-up spots. We couldn't let him go without discussing the best pizza in Los Angeles (@ApolloniasPizza), what the crowds are like in LA's comedy clubs, and his thoughts on Banc of California Stadium and The 3252 after attending last season's playoff win over Carson! Trust us, Alexis is hilarious, but he also bleeds American soccer! Julius Peppers makes another appearance on the pod as Alexis is baptized by the "Official Drink of Defenders of the Banc!" Also on the episode, be sure to listen for the way to score up to $20 off your next bar or food tab at Free Play while supporting the ThinkWatts Foundation!  Stay tuned for our next episode later in the week, recapping the 2020 MLS SuperDraft, the recent moves made by LAFC (Is Fito finito?), and so much more!

Episode 75 - Getting Gully with Alexis Guerreros of The Cooligans!

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