Ben Polk fell to the Timbers with the 20th pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft
by Matt Hoffman
Ben Polk, projected to be one of the top forwards in the 2016 MLS Draft, became one of the newest Timbers with the 20th pick.
Polk, who is English, played most recently for Syracuse, is a capable scorer drawing plenty of comparisons to SKC’s Dom Dwyer. He played as No. 9 in Syracuse but told Prost Amerika’s Sean Maslin he’s not only versatile but happy to play whether it’s playing center or out on the wings.
Syracuse’s blowout over Pittsburgh (ironically now coached by former T2 coach Jay Vidovich) is a Ben Polk (wearing number 7) mix tape. Notice in particular his hold up play, incisive runs and comfort with the ball at his feet.
Polk was elated to be picked by the Timbers, a franchise he called, “Incredible”.
Being raised in England, Polk developed a fondness for Liverpool but later remarked, “But I’m a Portland fan now.”
It’s unlikely that the drafting of Polk will dissuade the Timbers from seeking out the fabled international left wing to replace Rodney Wallace. It’s far more likely Polk will be, like Nick Besler (a SuperDraft pick from last year), that Polk will be getting more seasoning with the T2 club now coached by Andrew Gregor.
Gregor inherits a squad that played an entertaining brand of soccer with a rather profound ability to create outstanding goals. Joining a stable that includes Kharlton Belmar, a SuperDraft pick from last year and a former Timber U-23 player, who had a stellar season for T2 last season.
Polk is coming off a stellar season at Syracuse. The team made it to the Final Four only to be eliminated by penalty kicks. This was on the heels of SEC ACC Tournament in which Polk earned MVP honors.
Note: The original version incorrectly stated Polk was SEC MVP.
