Seriously Loco Soccer Pod

Rowdy In Tampa - Tampa Bay Preview - FC Tulsa Preview

Phil and Mikka are back to talk about everything that went down in El Paso Locomotive's 1-1 draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies. A good result that took a ton of work, a bit of luck and a one of the best goals you're ever likely to see from Javier Nevarez. They discuss the shape and this mysterious midfield role that 3 players have not made an impact from, the safe hands of Jahmali Waite and what that means as they look to get their first win of the USL Championship season against FC Tulsa.

Back Home: Oakland Roots Review - US Open Cup Preview

Phil and Christian meet up in-person for the first live episode of Seriously Loco since 2020. They have a time talking about El Paso Locomotive's 3-2 loss to Oakland Roots in the USL Championship and just how bad the mood is in the EP camp. Goals for Amando Moreno and Justin Dhillon were not enough to stave off Niall Logue (assisted by Memo Diaz) and Johnny Rodriguez. Some discussion then about the match against Union Omaha in the US Open Cup and a brief look ahead to Tampa Bay Rowdies away.

Derby Del Camino Real Preview - El Paso Locomotive v New Mexico United - USL Championship

Phil and Christian get together to talk about El Paso Locomotive's US Open Cup draw against Union Omaha in a rematch from 2023's tournament which Locomotive lost 2-0. Then it was onto Locomotive's 1-0 in the USL Championship to Las Vegas Lights and why midfield played an important part. Then it was onto the main event in previewing the Derby Del Camino Real against New Mexico where all Locomotive fans will be hoping that Amando Moreno has a big say against his former club to get Locomotive's...

Louisville City Review - Las Vegas Lights Preview

The gang is all here as Phil, Mikka and Christian get together to chat El Paso Locomotive's 1-0 loss to Louisville City, the challenges the team had with a lack of rotation, the Brandan Craig injury and the overall lack of cutting edge in this side. Is it a personnel issue, a tactical issue or simply an issue of time? Then they look ahead to the away match in Las Vegas against a Lights side that is just a little more serious than they were the last time these two teams met.

Hartford Athletic Review - Monterey Bay Preview - El Paso Locomotive USL Championship

Phil and Mikka are back to discuss El Paso Locomotive's 1-0 Opening Night loss to Hartford Athletic. The crew discuss the new look team which saw 8 debuts, what went wrong on the night but primarily what went right. Lucas Stauffer and Bolu Akinyode in particular impressed, while it looked like Amando Moreno and Justin Dhillon were robbed of a good goal contribution by a wayward offside flag.  Then it's a look ahead to Monterey Bay as they visit Southwest University Park this Wednesday wher...

Lead Them to Paradise - Season Six Premier

Phil and Mikka return for a 6th season of El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship. The first discussion takes us through a roster shake up that saw Locomotive add loads of USL-proven talent and some young pieces to make for a roster that should contend out West. Then they discuss Brendan Burke and his Hartford Athletic side which make the trip out to Southwest University Park to open the season.

Staying Loco - Eric Calvillo

Phil and Mikka sit down with El Paso Locomotive and El Salvador central midfielder Eric Calvillo to talk about the upcoming USL Championship season. Eric discusses his travels with the El Salvador National Team and seeing Lionel Messi in person, talks about changes to the 2024 El Paso Locomotive squad and how he is ready to go and chase a title this year.  DISCLAIMER: *slight Whataburger vs. In-N-Out discussion*

Playoff Primer

PLAYOFF SZN BABY! Phil and Mikka are back to talk about El Paso Locomotive's 2-1 win over Oakland Roots to secure a 7th seed spot back in the USL Championship playoffs after missing out last year. The Crew talk about a calm finish (if maybe offside) from Emmanuel Sonupe, a bullet header from Noah Dollenmayer, plus insane goalkeeping from Benny Diaz to give us all 3 points. There were also some contentious non-calls for both teams who miraculously ended the game with only one red card to Loco...

Charleston Phew

Mikka and Phil are back to talk about an El Paso Locomotive WIN. Yes, a WIN. The Crew talk about Los Locos' performance against Charleston Battery on Saturday night in a 5-goal thriller and ultimately a win that was crucial to keeping playoff hopes alive. They discuss the impact of players off the bench, questionable refereeing, and some quality finishes. Then it's on to a preview of midweek opponent San Diego Loyal, who Locomotive host and play for the very last time (RIP). Stay Loco!

Fatalism

Phil and Christian talk about El Paso's loss to Sac Republic in the USL Championship, how style of play has changed so dramatically under Brian Clarhaut and the unseriousness of the El Paso Locomotive organization. Oh and we play Phoenix Rising Saturday.

Signs of Life

Phil and Mikka are back to talk about the narrow 3-2 loss to Indy Eleven at the weekend. It was a homecoming for one Mark Lowry, who built the first ever Locomotive roster and made the team playoff contenders. The old gaffer got the better of his former club, who are mired in a 10 game winless run, but there were signs of life to take from the Boys in Blue's performance. The Crew discuss Marc Navarro's Man of the Match performance, familiar defensive woes, and the positives to take from the ...

Sleepless in Phoenix

Things have gone from bad to worse for El Paso Locomotive in the USL Championship. Losing 5-0 to Phoenix is their 4th straight in which they've been outscored 17-3 and Brian Clarhaut and his team show no signs of turning it around. Phil and Christian discuss the form of the team, the lack of anything positive to cling to and the unappetizing prospect of Mark Lowry's Indy XI visiting the SWUP on Saturday.

Shock and Awful

Phil and Mikka are back for a shorter episode this week to talk about the shocking news that Bence Pavkovics has been sold to Vasas SC in the Hungarian second division. The Crew discuss the optics and communication of the news in light of Wednesday night's Coach's Show. They also discuss the sporting impact the Hungarian's loss will have on the team, which is already thin in defense and in squad depth overall. Then it's on to a preview of Phoenix, in yet another "must win" in this torrid r...

Peaks and Valleys

The Crew is back to talk about perhaps the worst result in a poor run of form for El Paso Locomotive FC, as the Boys in Blue were dismantled 5-2 at the hands of RGV FC Toros. Phil and Mikka discuss the starting XI changes, some good goals, some even worse team defending, and how the mentality of the team is on the floor. Then it's on to a preview of Los Locos' next road clash against The Miami FC, who they have never played before. Phil and Mikka are down on Locos' chances to a recently in f...

Under the Roots, In the Mud

Phil and Mikka are back to talk about El Paso Locomotive FC's 3-1 loss to Oakland Roots at home. Locomotive are still winless against Roots all time, and the Crew dive into a discussion about two halves of football that did not resemble each other whatsoever from Locomotive, plus the tactics and mistakes that led to Locomotive's going 6 straight winless. There's also credit given to Roots' approach to the game and the quality of their finishes. Then it's on to a preview of the return fixture...

San Antonio Shambles

The Crew is back to talk about Wednesday's 1-2 loss to Copa Tejas rivals San Antonio FC. The Crew start from the end of the match, where some ugly scenes marred an otherwise respectful game up until that point, then contemplate whether this fixture is becoming a fiery rivalry in USL Championship. Then they dissect the actual football itself, including Eric Calvillo's penalty, Rida Zouhir's banger of a brace, and yet more poor finishing and bad luck for Brian Clarhaut's side. The Crew dive de...

Bye Week Banter feat. Duke Keith

Phil and Mikka are back for a bit of bye week banter with the legendary voice of El Paso Locomotive FC, Duke Keith! The Crew chat to Duke about the news that Locomotive have made a new signing in defender Jose Carrillo. Then it's on to a discussion of Duke's biggest broadcasting influences, his favorite Locomotive calls, first impressions of Brian Clarhaut, the 2023 season so far, the huge Derby at home and so much more! Stay Loco!

Tampa Bay Truce

Phil and Mikka are back on the mics to talk about match 3 of a 3-game slog, which saw El Paso Locomotive FC draw 1-1 with Eastern Conference visitors Tampa Bay Rowdies. The Crew discuss the intricate tactical battle and the ultimately fair result, in which Jake Lacava's layup into an empty net was cancelled out by Denys Kostyshyn's curler from distance. The Crew also reflect on the now 12-match unbeaten run as Los Locos head into a deserved two-week break before the home Derby against New Me...

San Antonio Showdown

The Crew is back to discuss El Paso Locomotive FC's 2-2 draw to defending USL Championship champions San Antonio FC at Toyota Field on Saturday night. It was a scrappy affair to kick off the 2023 edition of the Copa Tejas, as San Antonio's ultra-direct style of play led to the hosts putting the ball in the net more times than the offside flag would allow. The Crew also discuss Lucho Solignac's descent into madness, as a red card worthy challenge at the end of the 1st half solidified him as a...

Derby Dominance

The SL Crew is back after a brief break to talk about El Paso Locomotive FC's 1-0 win over archrivals New Mexico United at the Lab on Saturday night. Two SL representatives were in attendance for Locomotive's dominant display on the road in the #DerbyDelCaminoReal. The Crew discuss the vibe of the away day victory at the Lab, the dominant defense, Kostyshyn's brave header for the winning goal, and how there may be some room for improvement in the shots department. The Crew also opine on Zach...

Late Winners v Loudoun

Phil and Christian outline El Paso Locomotive's dramatic win over Loudoun United, with Chris Garcia turning the hero after a flurry of chances early went untaken. They also look ahead to Birmingham Legion, whose big names have not kept them from a slide in form. They will certainly still be a threat on Saturday. There is also discussion about USL's announcement of the Super League and it's attempt at Division 1 in the women's game.

Don't Sweat the Switchbacks

Stay Classy San Diego

Phil and Mikka are back on the airwaves to talk about Locomotive's latest road victims, San Diego Loyal, who fell to the mighty visitors 2-1 on Saturday night. It was Locomotive's first ever win over San Diego, which treated Locos fans to some nice goals and some nervy backs-to-the-walls defending too. The Crew talk about the superb team goal for the winner, Marc Navarro's injury woes, and answer some listener questions along the way. Then it's on to a preview of Colorado Springs Switchbac...

Blitzing Pittsburgh

The Crew is back after a two week break to discuss El Paso Locomotive FC's impressive 2-0 over Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC at the weekend, but not before Christian breaks the ice with a very geriatric prompt about vitamins. Then it's on to the football. The Crew discuss what appears to be a settled XI for Brian Clarhaut, "get it launched" tactics, defensive and passing rustiness, and two very special goals for different reasons. Then it's on to a preview of Western Conference foes San Diego ...

Orange County Conquest

The Crew is back to discuss a crucial 1-0 win over Orange County SC at the SWUP, marking Brian Clarhaut's first win at home. The Crew break down Lucho Solignac's 3rd goal of the season and Benny Diaz's 2nd clean sheet of the season, thanks to some smart saves and insane goalmouth action. Then it's on to a brief chat about Josue Aaron Gomez and Yuma making Locomotive history as centurions. The Crew also answer some questions along the way about changing expectations for the season, opinions o...

Liftoff in Louisville

The Crew is back to finally talk about a win, as El Paso Locomotive FC claimed all 3 points at against Louisville City on Saturday's matinee fixture at the Lynn Family Stadium. The Crew talk about the team's control without possession, ruthless finishing, and a little luck and poor defending from Louisville along the way. They also answer listener questions about Yuma's 100 appearances in Locomotive blue, the best vantage points at the SWUP, and more. Then it's on to a preview of FC Tulsa,...

Rocked by Le Rouge

The Crew is back to discuss a third straight loss at home for El Paso Locomotive FC, this time at the hands of first time visitors Detroit City FC. Phil and Mikka dissect each goal and familiar mistakes and patterns that led to defeat, plus Denys Kostyshyn's first goal for the club. The Crew answer listener questions along the way about crossing tactics, personnel decisions, and more. Then it's on to a preview of Saturday's fixture away at Eastern Conference powerhouse Louisville City FC. Th...

Switchbacks Sucker Punch

The Crew are back to talk about the absolutely gut wrenching 2-1 loss to Colorado Springs Switchbacks on Wednesday night at the SWUP, courtesy of a 93rd minute goal from the visitors. They dive into the shockingly ponderous 1st half and a much improved second half, but the damage was done super early and ridiculously late. The Crew also dive into the mailbag to answer listener questions from Twitter and Instagram about squad maturity, player recruitment wishes, and whether to be worried abou...

Sac'd at the SWUP

The USL Championship 2023 season is finally here! The Crew are back to talk about El Paso Locomotive FC's disappointing 1-0 loss to visitors Sacramento Republic FC on opening night of Season 5 at the SWUP. There were green shoots of optimism though, as the Crew dissected Brian Clarhaut's new controlled play style, the impact of the debutants, and the goalscoring chances that Los Locos had. The Crew also highlight the second half pressure Los Locos put on the visitors to try to win the game a...

Clarhaut Szn

Seriously Loco kicks off Season 5 in style, as the Crew welcomes El Paso Locomotive FC head coach and technical director Brian Clarhaut to the show. Brian talks to the Crew about his tactical philosophy, the stress of promotion/relegation during his time coaching in Sweden, preseason takes, and his goals for the 2023 season. Then it's on to the 2023 season preview, as the Crew discuss the preseason friendly against SAFC, the roster makeup, the opening night match against Sacramento Republi...

Nuevo Jefe

Phil and Mikka are back to talk about the breaking news that Brian Clarhaut is set to become the new head coach and technical director of El Paso Locomotive FC. The Crew break down fan reactions to the news, Clarhaut's resume, tactical profile, and answer loads of listener questions. There's also some chat about the signing of Ukrainian forward Denys Kostyshyn and the state of the roster generally. Stay Loco!

Changes

The Crew are back to discuss the breaking news that El Paso Locomotive head coach John Hutchinson is departing the club after just one season at the helm. They discuss their initial reactions to the news, the reasons why Hutch is moving on, and the club's comments about his departure and the future of the club. The Crew also answer a ton of listener questions and talk about who could possibly become Locomotive's third ever head coach. The Crew also chat about the new signing of Eric McCue an...

2022 Fan Survey

Phil and Mikka are back in the studio after a bit of a post-season hiatus. There's a bunch of news coming out of El Paso Locomotive FC early this offseason, including the signing of Spanish defender Marc Navarro and current players staying and departing. Then, the Crew discuss the results of the first ever Seriously Loco 2022 Fan Survey. The Crew dig in to the listeners' thoughts on Locomotive's 2022 MVP, the front office's performance, recruitment, missing the playoffs, and much more. Sta...

OCSC Review - Tampa Bay Preview

Phil and Mikka are back in the studio to chat El Paso Locomotive FC, who are somehow still alive in the playoff race despite a shocking first-ever loss to Colorado Springs Switchbacks and a tepid, albeit victorious, display over Orange County SC in the last home match of the 2022 season. The Crew go over the weird starting lineup vs. OC, playing better in the pouring rain, and all the playoff permutations going into the Tampa Bay Rowdies match on the road. The Crew also answer questions fr...

RGV Review - Los Dos Preview

The Crew are back in the studio after a nearly month-long hiatus to talk about El Paso Locomotive FC, who are staring down the barrel of a first ever exclusion from the USL Championship postseason following a dismal loss to RGV FC Toros at home on Wednesday night. The Crew lament the inconsistent nature of Locomotive's performances and talk about their chances against LA Galaxy 2, who have been a dicey side to face in the past.  The Crew also open up the listener mailbag and answer plenty ...

Switchbacks Review - Loyal Preview

Phil and Mikka are back to talk about the absolute wild 4-4 draw against Colorado Springs Switchbacks on Friday night. The Crew delve into the match which saw El Paso Locomotive FC battle back from 3-0 to go ahead 4-3 in the second half and ultimately concede the equalizer in controversial fashion. The Crew talk about arguably the most horrific 10 minutes of Locomotive football ever, a second half that showed real quality and heart to battle back, and more shocking USL refereeing. The Crew...

Monterey Review - Switchbacks Preview

The Crew is back to waffle a bit about sweet vs. sour candy and some team news, notably new signing Artem Kholod, the Ukrainian fullback who came through the Shakhtar Donetsk academy. Then the Crew dissect yet another dismal display, as Locomotive contrived to lose 1-0 to Monterey Bay FC on the road and go 4 straight games scoreless. The Crew discuss Lucho Solignac's woeful panenka, players finding form at different times, and whether the Locos will even make the playoffs at this rate. Then ...

Louisville Review - Monterey Preview

Seriously Loco welcomes back beloved host and founder Phil Baki to the show! The Crew catch up with Phil after his paternity leave layoff, address a rather large elephant in the room, and chat about nostalgic TV shows.  Then it's on to the football, where the Crew dissect El Paso Locomotive FC's dismal 1-0 loss at home, this time to Eastern Conference visitors Louisville City. The Crew talk about injuries, lack of goals, perceived tactical inflexibility, and the playoff picture. The Crew a...

Departures

Mikka and Christian welcome Sports Director of KTSM Colin Deaver to the show to discuss the shocking news that both Richie Ryan and Sebastian Velasquez are set to leave El Paso Locomotive FC. The group discuss the surprising news in each player's case, the seemingly markedly different circumstances leading up to each move, as well as what each player's legacy might be at Locomotive. Mikka and Christian also attempt to talk about actual football, as Locomotive host defensive powerhouse and ...

Switchbacks Review - Roots Preview

Mikka and Christian are back to discuss the massive 1-0 victory over Colorado Springs Switchbacks at the SWUP on Saturday night. The Crew break down a wild match that saw a Goal of the Season contender, more red cards and injuries, and refereeing controversy en route to 10 straight games undefeated for the Boys in Blue. The Crew also discuss the flurry of transfer activity that appears to be happening behind the scenes at the club. The Crew then look ahead to Locomotive's first ever away t...

ATL2 Review - Switchbacks Preview

Mikka and Christian are back from a little break in recording to chat about Locomotive's imminent loan signing of Edison Azcona as well as the team's busy 3 game week, in which Locomotive took just 5 points from 9 available. The crew discusses the draws to "inferior" teams on paper, poor performances, and the desperate situation at right back. The Crew also look forward to a huge clash at home against Colorado Springs Switchbacks and how perfection will be required to beat them, despite Loco...

Detroit City Review - NYRB II Preview

The Crew welcomes back friend of the pod Kevin Quintana to the show to discuss El Paso Locomotive FC's 1-1 draw away to Detroit City FC. The Crew talk about the historic occasion that played out on ESPN for the nation to see, which included some suspect defending but a golazo from Eric Calvillo and superb goalkeeping by Eric Newton. The Crew also reflect on Locomotive's first half of the season and give out report cards on recruitment, performances, and entertainment value. There's also so...

PHX Review - DCFC Preview

Mikka and Christian get together in a weirdly Baki-less Baki Studios. The shorthanded Crew try to keep things normal without founder-turned-father Phil and discuss a historic victory over Phoenix Rising FC on the road. There's chat about the ill-disciplined affair that produced 8 yellow cards and a straight red card for good measure, the exorcising of demons from the penalty spot for Josue Aaron Gomez, and another clean sheet for Evan Newton.   The Crew then previews the weekend's marque...

Diego Luna to Real Salt Lake - LV Lights Review

The SL Crew tries their best to react to the recent news that El Paso Locomotive have dealt Diego Luna to Real Salt Lake for a reported fee of $250k. While that is a record fee between USL Championship and MLS, the crew discusses what that figure actually represents. Then there is a look back on Diego's tenure with Locomotive and memorable moments, and finally a look at what Real Salt Lake fans can expect from their U22 Starboy. The Crew does eventually get to discuss the win over Las Vega...

El Paso Locomotive v Orange County Review - EPL v Las Vegas Lights

The Crew returns to discuss some team news, including the mutual decision between the club and Harry Brockbank to part ways. Then they review the draw between El Paso Locomotive and Orange County SC. They discuss a match that despite some early struggles, Locomotive could have won with Lucho Solignac playing a huge role in both his goal and Diego Luna's. The struggle unfortunately came in a couple moments with Iloski bouncing in one goal and us failing to clear ahead of Cubo Torres' equalize...

Sacramento Republic FC Review - Orange County SC Preview

The SL Crew return to chat a hard fought win over Sac Republic FC in the USL Championship for El Paso Locomotive. They discuss the tactics involved, devastating news for Chapa Herrera, Andrew Fox's contribution off the bench, the discourse around Yuma and the defensive solidity that John Hutchinson's Locomotive was searching for. Then they preview the match against Orange County SC on this Saturday. They try to put OCSC's throttling of Tulsa into perspective, look at their form over the co...

LA Galaxy 2 Review - Pittsburgh Preview

The SL Crew is back and wrap up a 9 point week with El Paso Locomotive grabbing 3 wins from 3 USL Championship matches. They discuss the reemergence of Lucho Solignac, the involvement of Christiano Francois, the continued contribution of Josue Aaron Gomez and Diego Luna and look at the improvement of Evan Newton. Then it is onto the match against Pittsburgh Riverhounds who are off to a great start in USL's Eastern Conference. Can Locomotive go and get a result at a tough ground on a long roa...

Loudoun Review - Tulsa Preview

The Crew gets together for the 100th time and it is on a good note as El Paso Locomotive claimed a 3-1 win at Loudoun United. There is some reflection back on the things that have happened over the last 100 episodes. Then they go into the win over Loudoun United who made it difficult for about an hour before subs changed the situation and Lucho Solignac and Diego Luna grabbed the goals to seal the win. Then it is on to Tulsa who come to the SWUP looking for a first win in 4 and Locomotive ...

Oakland Roots Review - Loudoun Preview

The SL Crew is back and it was a matter of two points dropped for El Paso Locomotive against Oakland Roots in the USL Championship. A set piece concession was canceled out by a Lucho Solignac goal. Then the moment that the game hinged on was a penalty earned by Josue Aaron Gomez, but subsequently missed off the post. Late chances from Lucho and Sebastian Velasquez weren't enough to get it over the line. Injuries to Velasquez and a potentially lengthy time on the sideline for Emmanuel Sonupe ...

San Antonio Review - Oakland Roots Preview

The Crew return to unpack El Paso Locomotive's 1-0 loss to San Antonio FC in their first Copa Tejas match of the season. There's discussion of the defensive improvement, offensive regression, where Nick Hinds is and assess Josue Aaron Gomez. Then there's listener questions regarding Locomotive's season and their prospects in the USL Championship. Finally, they get onto previewing Locomotive's match against Oakland Roots, who return to the site of their shock playoff triumph last season. ...