VANCOUVER, BC – Rookie centre back Tim Parker eclipsed the 1,000-minute mark on Wednesday night at BC Place – and he did so in typical Tim Parker fashion.
The 22-year-old American was quiet, but effective. Or, as I like to say, he was just “tidy.” Parker didn’t rack up an insane number of clearances or interceptions – nor did he deliver any big tackles.
At the same time, it seemed he barely put a foot wrong.
Here are a few plays that caught my eye (click to start and stop):
The first two plays show how well Parker reads the game. That’s one of his biggest strengths.
The third play shows that he's able to distribute the ball, too.
The fourth play is an interesting one. Parker loses a header and gets caught up field (not something you’ll see often), but then he gets on his horse and chases down Tesho Akindele to prevent a clear scoring opportunity. Carl Robinson will love that.
Everyone makes mistakes. It’s about how you react to them, Robinson always says.
Parker’s reaction couldn’t have been any better on that play – though it probably doesn’t hurt that he has the fastest 20 and 30-metre sprint on the team.
It’s hard to fathom that Parker is a rookie, because he sure isn’t playing like one. The ‘Caps have the best defensive record in MLS this season. A lot of players deserve credit for that. David Ousted, Kendall Waston, and Matias Laba are probably at the top of the list.
But don’t discount the rookie’s contributions.
When asked about Parker earlier this season, veteran centre back Pa-Modou Kah said: “The sky is the limit.” We're starting to see why.
Be a part of the best sporting atmosphere in Vancouver! 2016 Whitecaps FC Season Tickets are now on sale. In addition to Season Tickets, Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including Half-Season Packs, 5-Packs, a Youth Soccer Half-Season Ticket, and single match tickets. For more information, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
