Forge Audio Network

Behind the Beard Season 2, Episode 20! In this episode, Mackenzie and Coach Bobby discuss the team’s response to Forge’s 3-0 loss to the Halifax Wanderers, the recent signings of Victor Klondaritis and Orlendis Benitez, and what to expect from a Vancouver side that’s not at their best. To celebrate the 20th episode, they also look back on some of the top Behind the Beard moments.

Key Takeaways:

• Bobby and Louie B fondly recall the 2020 CPL bubble, likening each hotel to a "team cage."
• Reflecting on the Halifax loss, Bobby emphasizes that the team's focus and effort have been strong since their return, noting the 3-0 result didn’t reflect the true quality of the players or the group.
• Bobby acknowledges the team's ability to step up in crucial moments but admits they make things unnecessarily difficult when they have chances to gain separation in the standings.
• They discuss the impact Victor Klonaridis and Orlendis are expected to bring to the squad.
• Bobby points out that when facing Vancouver, form and goals are secondary, as they always bring a fierce and competitive edge against Forge.

Chapters:

0:00 Reminiscing on CPL Bubble

5:00 Response to Halifax

6:00 Closing out Away Games

8:20 Repeating history?

11:00 New Signings!

14:00 Vancouver FC

16:20 Celebrating episode 20

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

Welcome back to another week on the audio network! Forge FC is coming off a tough 3-0 defeat against the Halifax Wanderers and now turns its focus to an upcoming away match in Vancouver. Today, Mackenzie is joined by Steve Milton to analyze the Halifax game, evaluate the team's current position with only a few weeks left in the season, and discuss how Forge has historicaily bounced back from similar challenges. We'll also hear from Coach Bobby and Alex Achinioti-Jönsson in the post-match press conference.

Key Takeaways:
Playing Halifax at home has always been a challenge, with Forge not facing them there since 2022.
Forge experienced several defensive lapses while Halifax came out with high energy, leading to the 3-0 loss.
Forge remains at the top of the standings, leading Ottawa by 3 points. Atletico's 2-2 draw with Cavalry was favorable for their current position.
Milty predicts Chris Kalongo will return to the net, as he has established
himself as the team's starting goalkeeper.
Mackenzie highlights recent signings, noting that Forge needs to adapt to kwasi Poku's absence and refine their attacking strategy.

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

In this episode of Captain's Log, Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan engage in a lively discussion about recent games, player performances, and the excitement surrounding the title race. They reflect on league changes, the importance of playoff structures, and the standout performance of player Noah Jensen. The conversation also touches on fan engagement and the upcoming matches, emphasizing the need for the team to maintain momentum as the season progresses.

Takeaways

• The title race this year feels more exciting and competitive.
• League changes are necessary for growth and fan engagement.
• Noah Jensen's performance highlights the depth of talent on the team.
• The importance of taking chances when they arise in games.
• Player stats can reveal surprising insights about team dynamics.
• Maintaining focus is crucial as the season nears its end.
• Fans play a significant role in creating a vibrant atmosphere during games.
• The hosts enjoy a light-hearted banter that adds to the podcast's charm.
• Upcoming matches are critical for the team's success in the title race.
• The camaraderie among players is evident in their discussions.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Light Banter

03:03 - Title Race Excitement (This Year)

06:06 - League Changes and Playoff Structure

08:57 - Player Performances and Team Dynamics

11:59 - Noah Making Kyle Proud

14:54 - Calgary Game Recap

17:59 - Upcoming Matches and Fan Engagement

20:59 - Player Stats and Team Strategy

24:00 - Wrap-Up and Future Plans

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

Behind the Beard S2E19!

In today’s episode of Behind the Beard, Mackenzie and Coach Bobby discuss Forge FC’s win against Cavalry FC last weekend, why they shouldn’t understate the Halifax Wanderers, and the shenanigans that occurred during their pregame interview on one-soccer. Bobby also comments on the introduction of promotion & relegation in League1 Ontario. Later on, they argue why Bobby should OR shouldn’t have 12 pairs of shoes in his office…

Key Takeaways:

• Forge FC will always stick to their principles, but Coach Bobby notes that their approach may vary depending on the opponent.
• Benni playing as the number 9 and Borges in a more dynamic role enhanced their attack. Borges operated between the lines, while Benni was a creative focal point.
• Coach Bobby highlights the unpredictable nature of the league, stressing that you can’t assume Forge will finish first. The team is focused on short-term goals and treats every opponent with the same seriousness, as any team can win on any day.
• On the introduction of promotion and relegation in League1 Ontario, Bobby weighs the pros and cons. While it fosters a competitive environment and raises the level of play, it may lead coaches to prioritize results over giving younger players opportunities to develop—a key aspect for the growth of the Canadian Premier League.

Chapters: 

0:00 Shoe Game

1:50 Bobby Training

3:15 Takeaways from Cavalry

4:40 Attacking Set up

6:30 Onesoccer Interview

8:15 Reflecting on Halifax Win

10:00 Preparing for Halifax 

11:30 Jass & Chris

12:30 Closing the season

16:00 Promotion & Relegation in League1

17:00 Revisiting Shoe Game!

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

Igniting the Spark Early! A special edition of Mac’s Access features Mackenzie in conversation with Jacqueline Dorrey, Forge FC’s 3-time Spark Summit host. Jacqueline shares her experiences with the event, her journey as a woman in sports, and how the summit has evolved over the past three years. The next Spark Summit is set for September 28th, 2024!

Tickets: https://am.ticketmaster.com/forge/buy/2024sparksummit

Spark Summit Website: https://forgefc.canpl.ca/sparksummit/

Podcast Clip: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XZYTgrbarCM

About the Spark Summit:

Hear from leading professionals making plays in the sports world and learn from their first-hand experiences building brands and businesses in the industry.

Following the Spark Summit panels, join us for an evening of networking and soccer on the Club Level of Tim Hortons Field when Forge FC take on York United in a Canadian Premier League rivalry match.

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

In this episode of Forge Daily, Mackenzie breaks down Forge FC’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Cavalry FC, which extended their lead at the top of the table by five points. This win brings Forge even closer to clinching the regular season title and saw a historic moment for Tristan Borges, who became the club’s all-time leading scorer with a brace.

Key Takeaways:

• Forge FC's 2-1 victory over Cavalry FC was highlighted by a strong team performance, with Beni Badibanga stepping up in a central role and providing a crucial assist for Borges’ opening goal.
• Borges’ brace not only secured the win but also marked his 33rd goal for Forge, making him the club’s all-time top scorer
• A key save by Jassem Koleilat in the first half kept Forge ahead, while later in the game, Noah Jensen’s cross led to a penalty that Borges converted.
• However, Forge conceded a late goal, maintaining the tradition of tight matches against Cavalry.
• With 10 home wins this season, Forge have a commanding lead in home form, placing them in a great position to claim the CPL Shield. 

Chapters: 

0:00 Starting 11!

2:30 Borges’ Achievement

4:30 Second Half Goals

5:30 Team Expectations

6:30 Executing at Home

7:30 CPL Shield Pursuit

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

Back with another edition of Forge Daily! As it is match day -1, Mackenzie covers two key matches: last weekend's 2-0 win against Pacific FC and the upcoming clash with Cavalry FC on Saturday. Mackenzie Barwell also catches up with players recognized in the CPL Team of the Week: Noah Jensen, Chris Kalongo, and Dom Samuel.

Key Takeaways:

• Standings Update: Forge FC holds the top spot with 38 points, while Cavalry FC trails by four points in 3rd place. Atletico Ottawa and York United round out the top four.
• Team Confidence: Chris Kalongo and Dom Samuel share how the team plans to maintain 1st place and their approach after the Pacific FC win.
• Noah Jensen: Discusses the significance of the Cavalry match, home-field advantage, and his goal song "Cotton Eye Joe."
• Cavalry’s Form: With four wins and one draw in their last five matches, Cavalry is on a hot streak, and Mackenzie breaks down their recent performances, key injuries, and attacking threats.

Chapters:

0:00 Current Standings & Pacific Win!

3:00 Individual Performances & CPL nods

4:30 Refocusing on Regular Season

5:15 Cavalry Preview!

8:00 Noah Jensens Captain Experience & Goal Song

10:00 Chris Kalongo isn’t actually chatty..

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

In this week’s edition of Mac’s Access, Seba Castello joins Mackenzie following his much-anticipated return to the pitch! They dive into everything from his carpool adventures with Tristan Borges, his two-season battle with injuries, and a throwback to his first appearance on the show with Chris Kalongo. Seba also reflects on his memories of celebrating the 2023 CPL final.

Key Takeaways:

• Seba admits that his morning car rides with Borges often involve some playful teasing, which he calls “early brain activation,” though it tends to get on Borges' nerves.
• He reveals that Noah Jensen is the teammate who makes him laugh the most.
• Despite Garven Metusala setting up his own barbering station, Seba remains loyal to his own barber and lets Noah Jensen and Chris Kalongo be Garv's clients.
• Seba’s injury journey has been difficult, starting with a shoulder injury early last season, followed by a knee injury that required surgery and a six-month recovery.
• While dealing with two major injuries was tough, Seba says the experience has given him a new perspective, and he's grateful to be back on the field.
• Before his iconic substitution goal, Seba was originally supposed to enter the game earlier but couldn’t due to timing issues.

Chapters: 

0:00 – Welcome Seba & Labour Day Sleep-Ins
 3:00 – Carpooling with Borges
 6:30 – Funniest Guy on the Team?
 9:00 – The Barber Shop Chronicles
 10:30 – Injuries & Recovery Process
 14:00 – Substitution Goal!!!
 15:45 – Revisiting Old Conversations
 18:00 – 2023 CPL Final Memories

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

Behind the Beard, Season 2, Episode 17!
This episode covers two key matches: last weekend's game against Pacific and the upcoming clash with Cavalry FC on Saturday. Coach Bobby delves into how the team selects a captain for each match, the importance of home-field advantage, and the strategy behind optimizing the eight-day gap between their last match and the upcoming game against Cavalry. They also have some fun discussing the ideal carpool situation among the team.

Key Takeaways:

• Cisse is the one advocating for bonuses among the team after a win.
• Coach Bobby, despite not being a fan of days off, acknowledged that the recent break was much needed.
• Despite their championship season, Forge only secured four home wins in 2023. Coach Bobby emphasized that it was a major focus during pre-season to ensure every player was committed to improving that record.
• It was crucial to bring a different level of energy against Pacific, largely driven by Matteo’s first professional start and Amadou’s impact off the bench.
• Coach Bobby confirmed that Seba Castello has been cleared to play after two long seasons out with injury.
• Cavalry has been gaining momentum recently, sitting just four points from the top of the table. Coach Bobby noted that Forge will need to be mindful of Cavalry's set-piece opportunities.

Chapters: 

0:00 Labour Day & Back to School
 4:40 Home Field Advantage
 7:15 Matteo Schiavoni’s First Professional Start
 9:10 Choosing a Captain
 12:10 Noah Jensen!
 13:00 Readjusting
 14:00 Cavalry’s Recent Success
 16:15 CPL Team of the Week
 17:00 Seba & Borges Carpool

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
       Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
       Insta: @forgefc
       TikTok: @forgefchamilton
       Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82

 In this episode of the Captain's Log, Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan dive into an array of topics, from unexpected grievances and hilarious rants about trivial annoyances to reflections on recent soccer games and the state of the sport in Canada. The episode is a blend of humor, personal stories, and genuine soccer insights, making it an engaging listen for fans of the Forge FC and beyond.

Takeaways:

• Kyle and Mitch discuss the absurdity of some product promotions and personal pet peeves.
• Humorous commentary on car decorations and parenting decisions.
• A deep dive into recent soccer matches, including the challenges and highlights of the team's performance.
• Insights into soccer culture in Canada and the importance of local rivalries.
• Reflections on post-game rituals and the camaraderie among the team.

Chapters:

00:00 - Cold Open

03:00 - Car Decorations

06:00 - Heated Soccer Recap

15:00 - Social Media Madness

24:00 - Soccer Culture in Canada

33:00 - Post-Game Rituals and Rumors

45:00 - The Nostalgia of Cable TV

52:00 - Oasis Reunion

Saturday Sept 28th
4:00pm
Forge FC vs York United
Tim Hortons Field

Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-york-united-fc-hamilton-ontario-09-28-2024/event/1000606188640D82