John Tolkin provided his first assist in the Bundesliga on Sunday, helping his new club Holstein Kiel draw 2-2 with VfL Bochum.
WHAT HAPPENED?
U.S. worldwide John Tolkin made his third Bundesliga appearance on Sunday as he was named to Holstein Kiel’s arrangement for the second successive time. He began the left-hand side of a back five, and he joined with one more protector to make one of the game’s pivotal turning points.
With his side down 2-1 soon after halftime, Tolkin moved forward to take a long free kick. His conveyance was pinpoint, finding the head of focus back David Zec, who committed no error with his completion to make it 2-2, procuring Kiel a point all the while.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Tolkin’s defining moment comes as he hopes to acclimate to life in the Bundesliga. He was tossed squarely into the fire in his latest appearance preceding Sunday, beginning in a misfortune to Bayern Munich in a valid “Welcome to Europe” second. His presentation on Sunday was vastly improved, as he gave that help while making seven clearances on edge side of the ball.
The fullback, who was initially called into the U.S. Men’s Public Group’s January camp prior to leaving to finish his transition to Germany, joined Holstein Kiel from the New York Red Bulls for a revealed $3 million expense.
DID YOU KNOW?
The former New York Red Bull defender is no stranger to assists, having provided 12 during his time in MLS. In addition, he added three more assists in just 10 playoff appearances.
WHAT NEXT FOR TOLKIN?
Even with the draw, Kiel are 17th in the Bundesliga, five points from safety and one point out of the relegation playoff spot. Up next is a tough match: a visit to third-place Eintracht Frankfurt.
