Forge FC extended their lead in the standings by 7 points after yet another home win this past weekend against York United. In today’s episode, Mackenzie breaks down all the action from the 905 Derby, the impact on the standings after Matchweek 25, and takes a look at where Valour FC stands ahead of their upcoming clash with Forge FC this weekend.

Key Takeaways;

• Forge FC secured a 2-0 victory in the 905 Derby against York United, with goals from Noah Jensen and Nana Ampomah.
• Noah Jensen's goal in the second half brought his season total to 5, trailing only Tristan Borges. Nana Ampomah sealed the game with a late goal, aided by new signings Victor Klonaridis and Alex.
• Both Amadou Kone and Tristan Borges were absent from the starting lineup, and Forge had to adapt when Elimane Cissé left the match due to injury. Jordan Hamilton, Dav Choinière, and Benni Badibanga led the attack.
• The episode highlighted results from Matchweek 25, including Cavalry's 0-0 draw with Vancouver and a 1-1 draw between Ottawa and Halifax. These results affect playoff positions, especially with Valour FC and Pacific FC fighting for the 5th playoff spot.
• Forge will face Valour FC next, with Forge on the verge of clinching the regular season title and Valour fighting to stay in the playoff race.

Chapters:

0:00 Recapping the 905 Darby

6:55 Individual Stats and Matchweek 25

8:00 Valour v. Forge FC

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

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

In this lively episode of The Captain's Log, Forge captain Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan bring their signature humor and candid style to the Forge Audio Network. They dive into everything from team dynamics to personal reflections, all while keeping the conversation fun and engaging. Kyle shares stories about his family, including some hilarious anecdotes about his son, and the duo discusses their experiences from the latest Forge games. With a bit of roasting and some heartfelt moments, this episode is sure to keep you entertained.

Takeaways:

• Kyle Becker opens up about his son’s soccer experiences and family life, adding a personal touch to the episode.
• The pair dive into recent team performances, focusing on standout players like David Choinière and Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson.
• A deep dive into the intricacies of being a central midfielder and what makes controlling the game's tempo so important.
• A hilarious reflection on old TV shows like Mad Men and how it connects to their ideas on marketing and storytelling.
• The hosts’ thoughts on referees and the impact of officiating on match flow.
• Breaking down Forge’s latest win and the impact of Borges and an "ass pass" moment.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

05:15 – Benny Bekker: Future Star

10:20 – Previous Forge Game

18:45 – Standout Performances and Key Players

24:30 – Hilarious commentary on Mad Men and marketing ideas

30:15 – Controlling the Game

38:00 – Wrap-up and final thoughts on the season

Matteo returns for another episode of Mac’s Access! Today, he and Mackenzie dive into a range of topics including his first professional goal, his earliest soccer memories, and his experience coaching at the all-girls skills clinic. Plus, much more! Later, Matteo picks his team for the "FALL Stuff" draft - a game played during Behind the Beard.

Chapters
1:00 Matteo's First Professional Goal
2:15 Goal Celebration & Family
3:00 Earliest & Most Embarrassing Soccer Memory
4:30 Social Media Challenge
5:30 Malik's Brand & Matteo’s Modelling
7:00 All-Girls Skills Clinic
8:50 Coaches on the Team
10:00 Education
12:00 Fall stuff draft!

Key Takeaways

• Matteo's goal celebration was inspired by Luca Toni, happening spontaneously in the moment.
• Matteo praises his family, calling them “THE BEST” and highlighting how they often travel in large numbers from Montreal to support him.
• He recently modelled for Malik’s clothing brand 'Arcane,' an experience he enjoyed.
• Matteo and Ale led the shooting drills at the girls' skills clinic, where he appreciated the presence of the McMaster women's team. He noted how the girls were more excited to take photos with the university players than with them!
• Matteo credits Garven Metusala for being exceptionally patient and great with kids during the clinic.
• Matteo is currently in a 'social' program at school, taking an extra two years to prepare for university.

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

Behind the Beard: Season 2, Episode 21
In this episode, Mackenzie and Coach Bobby dive into everything York United, Forge FC's recent win over Vancouver FC, and the league record they could potentially break in the weeks ahead. Coach Bobby also shares his thoughts on his favourite aspects of Forge… or perhaps the lack of them!

Key Takeaways:

• Coach Eddie doesn’t handle turbulence well, unlike Coach Bobby, who’s unfazed by it.
• Dav has been a standout all season, providing the team with consistent energy and a reliable presence in behind the opposing defensive line.
• Cissé excels at picking his moments, maintaining balance, and not forcing the attack.
• Coach Bobby reflects on the importance of bouncing back after their loss to Halifax.
• He expects York United to come into this weekend’s match hungry and ready for a challenge — especially considering they are fighting for a playoff spot.
• Coach Bobby is NOT a fan of fall, they play a fun game to end the episode.

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 to another episode of Forge Daily! Matchweek 24 has wrapped up, and Forge FC now hold a 5-point lead following their 3-1 win over Vancouver FC on the road this past weekend! Today, we'll dive into that match, what the result means for Forge and the current standings, and who they’re gearing up to face this coming Saturday! Plus, hear from some of the guys as they share their travel experiences coming back from Vancouver.

KeyTakeaways:

Away Win: Forge FC earned a crucial 3-1 victory over Vancouver, improving their away form this season.

Player Impact: Dav Choiniere contributed a goal and assist, while Benni Badibanga scored off a 1v1, showcasing key performances.

Playoff Secured: Forge locked in a playoff spot and a five-point lead, ensuring home advantage.

Standings Shift: Cavalry’s win and Halifax/Valour’s draw tightened the race for the final playoff spots.

York United Next: Forge faces York United this weekend, a crucial match after their last 0-0 draw.

Chapters:

0:00 Reflecting on Vancouver Win

4:30 Clinching Playoffs!

6:30 Depth & Experience as Advantages

8:00 Looking ahead!

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

Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan are joined by Louis Butko as he shares his journey from being the first digital host for Forge FC to his current role at CHCH. The discussion covers memorable experiences from the Island Games, the challenges of broadcasting, and the importance of team culture in sports. Louis offers valuable advice for aspiring broadcasters and reflects on the unique dynamics of working in sports media. The episode concludes with a light-hearted sign-off, showcasing Louis's charismatic personality.

Takeaways

• The Island Games provided a unique experience for all involved.
• Team culture is crucial for success in sports.
• Broadcasting requires adaptability and a strong work ethic.
• Louis B emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities.
• The role of media is to support and enhance the sports experience.
• Morning television demands high energy and commitment.
• Building relationships with players is essential for media professionals.
• Louis learned a lot from observing professional athletes.
• The challenges of broadcasting can be mentally and physically taxing.
• Louie encourages aspiring broadcasters to embrace their passion and commitment.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Technical Setup

03:02 - The Journey of Louie B

06:00 - Memories from the Island Games

09:01 - The Role of Media in Sports

12:01 - Life as a Digital Host

15:02 - Experiences in Morning Television

17:57 - The Importance of Team Culture

21:55 - Challenges of Broadcasting

29:05 - Advice for Aspiring Broadcasters

35:01 - Game Analysis and Reflections

40:02 - Closing Thoughts and Sign-Off

Welcome to another edition of Mac’s Access! Today, Mackenzie is joined by Beni Badibanga for his second appearance on the show. They dive into why he chose to wear the number 39, his experience stepping into the striker role during Kwasi Poku's absence, the source of his confidence in his unique playing style, and the valuable life lessons his father passed on to him. Toward the end, Beni shares his thoughts on some of the 2024 fashion trends.

Chapters:

• 0:00 Welcome Beni
• 1:30 Choosing #39
• 4:30 Stepping into the Striker Role
• 6:00 Personal Flair in Soccer
• 7:00 “Act Before You React”
• 10:00 Fashion Trends: Yay or Nay

Key Takeaways:

• Beni previously wore number 12 in honor of his father’s birthday, but in Europe, some clubs reserve the number for the fans, known as the "12th player."
• He believes "every game tells its own story," highlighting how he excels in 1-on-1 situations as a winger and how his creativity shines through as a striker.
• A fashion enthusiast, Beni partnered with Fashion Nova in 2022. He emphasizes that confidence is key in fashion—it's not just about what you wear, but how you wear it.

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 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