PawedCast Episode 111: Exclusive Jonathan Spector Interview, MLS Cup, OCSC Off-Season, and More

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It’s our final scheduled PawedCast of the 2017 calendar year and that calls for a special guest. We’ve certainly got one in Orlando City center back Jonathan Spector. The veteran defender talked to us about his first full season in MLS, playing for Jason Kreis, his mid-season injury, the state of the U.S. Soccer Federation and much more. It was great catching up with Specs.

Before we get to that, we discuss the MLS Cup, the Expansion Draft, Orlando City’s off-season to date (and why we’re not pushing the panic button on the Lions not signing eight DP-caliber players already — or even one). We’re also talking about the big trade that brought Darlington Nagbe east, and I give a brief synopsis of the 2017 Women’s College Cup, which took place at Orlando City Stadium.

We talk a bit about the great off-season Pride players are having abroad, particularly Rachel Hill, who’s tearing up the W-League with the Perth Glory. And we’re back at it answering your mailbag questions. If there’s something you want us to address on our next show, just tweet it to us @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Here’s how No. 111 went:

0:12- Does winning the MLS Cup after the season Toronto FC had make the Reds the best team in Major League Soccer history? That, plus the off-season happenings (and non-happenings) around the league, as well as Ant Pulis getting the band back together in St. Louis.

31:23- Jonathan Spector wouldn’t tell us who he’s backing for USSF president but he did list two very good reasons why he probably won’t see the new Star Wars movie anytime soon. Plus a lot of good thoughts about the 2017 season, mentoring young center back partners, and more.

51:07- Your mailbag questions are answered! Seriously, we’ll answer anything you want to know. Plus, a little Pride talk.