This week on Cannon Crüe, Granit and Ryan hold down the fort while Patrick adjusts to life as a new dad. The duo recaps Charleston Battery’s strong showing against Hartford, dives deep into the frustrations of a sweltering draw in Miami, and previews the highly anticipated rematch with Phoenix Rising. Along the way, they discuss youth coaching on the beach, hydration strategies for the 2026 World Cup, swamp coolers, and the fine art of time wasting. Also: Pitbull owns a stadium?!

• Battery vs Hartford recap: dominant goals from Landry and MD Myers
• Miami analysis: defensive misstep, attacking frustration, and referee woes
• Beach training benefits & Central Virginia vs Coastal SC development
• Weather, altitude, and their effect on match readiness
• World Cup 2026: are teams ready for the American summer heat?
• Previewing the Phoenix Rising match: time to finally beat them
• Supporter section shoutouts, pub watch stories, and why you should visit the Regiment tailgate

This week, the Crüe breaks down the Charleston Battery’s gritty 1-1 draw against Loudoun United. From baby-watch updates and wedding festivities to pitch conditions and referee drama, no topic is off-limits. MD Myers bags another, the boys rage about bad camera work and corner flags on cones, and everyone tries to decode why we're second on the table.

Plus:

• Landry’s yellow card situation – was the sub the right call?
• Should he start vs. Hartford?
• Loudoun’s press: exhausting or brilliant?
• Is Abu Korra the one that got away?
• And of course... score predictions for the Battery’s trip to soggy Connecticut.

Key Talking Points:

• Missed chances and chaos before halftime
• J.D. Torres... or is it Juan David? Announcer beef returns
• Should Nate step into Landry’s boots?
• Why Loudoun’s press worked – and how the Battery handled it

• Patrick: 3-0 Battery win, MD Myers hat trick
• Ryan: 4-1 Battery, MD brace, Icaza goal
• Granit: 2-0 Battery, JD Torres with a brace

Next Match:

Charleston Battery @ Hartford Athletic

Saturday, June 14 | 🕖 7 PM ET

Forecast: 70% chance of rain, bring the rags for the cameramen.

The Battery came out firing... just not on target. In this episode of Cannon Crue, Granite, Patrick, and Ryan break down Charleston’s 1-0 loss to USL League One’s Greenville Triumph in the Jägermeister Cup. From dominant possession to fruitless finishing, the Crue unpack what went wrong, who didn’t show up (cough Rubio), and why a taco truck might’ve been the real MVP.

The Crue also looks ahead to a crucial away match against Loudoun United, breaking down tactics, players to watch (Aboukoura alert!), and why the “boot it” philosophy might just be the strategy we need.

• Greenville 1–0 Battery: breakdowns and wasted chances
• Christian's solid performance despite the loss
• Missing Juan David + frustration with Rubio
• Philosophical dive into “bootball” and xG studies
• Player spotlight: shoutouts to Edwards & Sims
• Upcoming Loudoun match preview: danger man Aboukoura, no clean sheets, and physical play
• Patrick’s baby countdown, weather talk, and Sergio Agüero’s streaming retirement comeback

1. Boot It: A Pragmatic Alternative to Build Up Play https://statsbomb.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Lorenzo-Cascioli.pdf

By Cascioli et al.

A deep dive into whether bypassing buildup and punting it long can statistically improve scoring odds — and why teams like Charleston might benefit from a more direct style in certain situations.

2. Leaving Goals on the Pitch: Evaluating Decision Making in Soccer

https://arxiv.org/abs/2104.03252

By Maaike Van Roy, et al.

Why modern players may be over-prioritizing high-xG shots and neglecting low-percentage but high-reward options. Is Charleston guilty of playing it too safe in front of goal?

#CharlestonBattery #USLChampionship #CannonCrue #BootItFC #JaegermeisterCup #SoccerPodcast #GreenvilleTriumph #CharlestonSoccer #xGdebate #USLSoccer

Toby Sims has recently signed with the Greenville Triumph, marking a significant milestone in his professional soccer career. In this episode, we engage in an illuminating conversation with Toby, who shares his journey from playing collegiate soccer at Chowan University to competing at the professional level in England and now returning to the United States. We delve into the challenges and triumphs he experienced while transitioning between different leagues and countries, as well as his aspirations moving forward with the Triumph. The discussion also encompasses the importance of maintaining an open-minded approach in both soccer and life, emphasizing adaptability and resilience. Join us as we explore Toby's insights on the mental and physical demands of professional soccer, and his vision for his future in the sport.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Charleston Battery
• Toby Sims
• Chowan Chan University
• Pittsburgh
• Sheffield United
• Doncaster Rovers
• Harrogate
• USL League Two

This episode of the Cannon Crue podcast delves into the intricate journey of goalkeeper Christian Gardner, who shares insights into his formative years in soccer, his collegiate experiences at Boston College and Northwestern, and his transition to professional play. We express our gratitude to Craig for graciously allowing us access to Proof on King Street for this recording, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chris Gardner for his invaluable contributions to our discussion. The episode further addresses the technical nuances of goalkeeping, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude and adaptability amidst the challenges of the sport. Additionally, we acknowledge the unfortunate difficulties encountered by our camera crue during the interview, for which we offer our sincere apologies. Their performance has led to a restructuring of our filming team and he has been sacked.

Listeners are invited into the world of professional soccer through this engaging episode of the Cannon Crue podcast, featuring an enlightening conversation with Christian Garner, goalkeeper for the Charleston Battery. Garner shares his compelling journey from a small town in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to the professional soccer field, highlighting the various challenges he faced along the way. The discussion begins with Garner's early involvement in soccer, where he played for local clubs and participated in the Olympic Development Program, setting the stage for his future aspirations. He reflects on the limitations of opportunities in his hometown, prompting him to seek broader avenues for growth and development. Garner's relationship with his family, particularly his older brothers, plays a pivotal role in his story, as they provided both support and the competitive drive necessary for his development as an athlete.

Transitioning into his collegiate career, Garner recounts his time at the Brooks School, a prestigious institution known for its soccer program. He speaks candidly about the challenges he encountered, including the pressure of competing against highly skilled peers and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst adversity. Garner's experience at Boston College further emphasizes the rigorous demands of collegiate athletics, as he navigated the complexities of balancing academics with sports. The podcast also explores the mental resilience required of goalkeepers, a position often characterized by solitude and high stakes. Garner reflects on the lessons learned from these experiences and how they have shaped his approach to the game.

As the episode progresses, the conversation touches upon Garner's transition to professional soccer with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and his eventual move to the Charleston Battery. He discusses the differences in the playing environment and the significance of teamwork and camaraderie in achieving collective goals. This episode encapsulates the essence of dedication, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of sports.

Chris also dishes up his thoughts on some of his team mates. I just say shame for those who are late for the team bus and who thing they are funny, but really are not. Shame.

From the Crue, thank you Chris!!

Takeaways:

• The importance of perseverance and self-belief is a recurring theme throughout Chris Gardner's journey in soccer.
• Chris emphasizes the significance of education alongside athletics, demonstrating a dual commitment to both pursuits.
• The challenges of transitioning from college soccer to professional leagues highlight the competitive nature of the sport.
• Experiences shared by Chris reveal how support from family and peers can influence an athlete's career trajectory.
• The necessity of adaptability and continuous improvement is critical for success as a goalkeeper and in life.
• Chris discusses the unique mental fortitude required to succeed as a

The latest installment of the Cannon Crue podcast delves into the Charleston Battery's recent match against Detroit, offering an in-depth analysis of the team's performance. Granit, Ryan, and Patrick provide a nuanced exploration of the match's key moments, notably the early goal conceded, which serves as a catalyst for an engaging discussion about defensive strategies and the psychological impact of such setbacks on players. The Crue emphasize the importance of maintaining composure and resilience in the face of adversity, highlighting how the team's swift response to the initial setback reflects their growth and determination.

As the conversation unfolds, the Crue dissect the contributions of individual players, particularly those who excelled in pivotal moments, including goal scorers and playmakers. They articulate their observations regarding the tactical adjustments made by the coaching staff that allowed the Battery to regain control of the match and secure a convincing victory. This analysis is complemented by personal anecdotes and insights from the hosts, creating a rich narrative that captures the essence of being an ardent supporter of the team.

The episode culminates in a broader reflection on the Charleston Battery's season thus far, with the Crue expressing optimism for the future as they discuss upcoming fixtures and the potential for continued success. The Cannon Crue podcast, through its sophisticated discourse and passionate delivery, not only informs listeners about the match but also fosters a sense of community among fans, reinforcing the collective spirit that drives the Charleston Battery forward.

Takeaways:

• The Charleston Battery exhibited remarkable resilience, rebounding from an early goal against them to secure a decisive victory.
• The team's consistent performance, marked by seven consecutive wins, showcases their developing synergy and tactical prowess on the field.
• Juan David's contributions have been crucial, as he currently leads the league in assists and remains a key player for the Battery's offense.
• Cal scores a brace.
• The camaraderie among the players and their ability to adapt to various match conditions have significantly contributed to their current success.
• The discussion around the upcoming match against Greenville Triumph highlights the team's determination to continue their winning streak at home.

The Charleston Battery delivered an emphatic performance against San Antonio, securing a resounding 4-0 victory that exemplified their dominance on the field. This match not only showcased the Battery's offensive prowess but also marked a significant moment of retribution against an opponent that had previously inflicted a 7-0 defeat upon them. The discussion unfolds with keen insights into the strategies employed, the players' performances, particularly that of Cal Jennings, and the overall team dynamics that contributed to this triumph. We delve into the tactical adjustments made during the match and the implications for the Battery's upcoming fixtures, particularly as they prepare for their next encounter. The clean sheet achieved against a formidable adversary further underscores the team's defensive solidity and ambition as the season progresses.

The recent confrontation between the Charleston Battery and San Antonio was nothing short of a spectacle, culminating in an emphatic 4-0 victory for the Battery. This match was particularly momentous as it coincided with Military Appreciation Night, an event that imbued the atmosphere with a palpable sense of pride and celebration. The podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of the game, with hosts Granite, Patrick, and Ryan dissecting the strategies employed by the Battery, which evidently capitalized on the vulnerabilities of their opponents. Throughout the match, Charleston demonstrated remarkable control and composure, effectively maintaining possession while simultaneously exploiting San Antonio’s defensive lapses. This analysis not only illustrates the Battery's technical prowess but also highlights the emotional significance of the win, especially in light of the previous year’s humiliating defeat at the hands of the same team. The hosts reflect on the implications of this victory for the season ahead, emphasizing the importance of momentum and the psychological boost that such a decisive win can provide to the players.

The Charleston Battery emerged victorious against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in a definitive display of dominance, triumphing with a scoreline of 3-1 in the much-anticipated No Quarter Derby. This match, held in Tampa Bay, illustrated the Battery's offensive prowess and strategic superiority, as they continually pressured their opponents, ultimately securing a well-deserved victory. Our discussion delves into the intricate dynamics of the game, examining key player performances and tactical adjustments that underscored this significant win. We reflect on the implications of this match for the Battery's season, highlighting their current momentum and aspirations within the league. As we analyze the events on the pitch, we aim to provide our listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the match's context and its impact on both teams moving forward.

The recent encounter between the Charleston Battery and the Tampa Bay Rowdies, aptly dubbed the No Quarter Derby, culminated in an impressive victory for the Battery, concluding with a scoreline of 3-1. This match, played in the heart of Tampa Bay, showcased the Battery's tactical prowess and formidable attacking capabilities. From the outset, Charleston demonstrated dominance in possession, employing a strategic 4-2-3-1 formation that allowed them to control the midfield and create numerous opportunities. The team's approach was characterized by fluid movements and quick transitions, which left the Rowdies' defense scrambling to keep pace. A standout moment occurred when Juan David skillfully maneuvered through the opposition, delivering a pinpoint assist that resulted in one of the Battery's goals. This incident epitomized the team's cohesive play and collective effort, as they launched relentless attacks while maintaining defensive solidity. Despite conceding a solitary goal, Charleston's resilience shone through, securing their place at the top of the league standings with this decisive win.

Takeaways:

• The Charleston Battery demonstrated remarkable dominance in the recent No Quarter Derby against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, securing a decisive victory with a final score of 3 to 1.
• Despite conceding a goal, the Battery's overall performance showcased their offensive prowess and defensive resilience throughout the match.
• The introduction of new players has significantly enhanced the Battery's backline stability, as evidenced by their ability to withstand pressure from their rivals.
• Key players such as Juan David, Cal Jennings, and MD Myers have proven instrumental in the team's attacking strategy, contributing to both goals and assists during the game.
• The match highlighted the importance of early goals as the Battery's first goal set the tone for their subsequent offensive efforts against Tampa Bay.
• The Battery's ability to outscore their opponents consistently reflects their evolving tactical approach and growing team synergy.