Players gather around Bernard Parker after the TS Galaxy forward was injured by a terrible tackle from Bongani Zungu on Tuesday. Zungu (far right) was sent off for the challenge. Picture: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
Following a gruesome injury to Bernard Parker, TS Galaxy dedicated their victory against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Black Label Knockout to the attacking midfielder.
Galaxy suffered a huge blow when the veteran attacker was injured by Sundowns’ midfielder Bongani Zungu, with Parker leaving the field early with what looked like a broken leg in the 58th minute, with the Rockets leading 2-1.
Zungu was subsequently sent-off for the horrible challenge on the former Kaizer Chiefs player, who was seen clapping his hands to the crowd while being stretchered off the pitch.
The game ended 2-2 after extra time, but Galaxy managed to steer their way into the quarterfinals of the tournament via a penalty shootout, while becoming the first team to beat the Brazilians this season.
After the match, the Galaxy staff as well as coach Sead Ramovic visited Parker at the hospital, where they wished the 37-years old a quick come ack into the game.
“We wish Bernard Parker a speedy recovery following a horrific injury last night (Wednesday). We’ve lost a soldier whom we shall dearly miss as our journey on the battlefield continues. Come back stronger, Die Hond! We dedicate last night’s victory to you,” the club wrote on their official Facebook account.
The extent of Parker’s injury is yet to be revealed, but there have been similar injuries to that of the attacking midfielder in the past. The most memorable one in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) is that of Joseph Molangoane at Chiefs.
Molangoane was still on the books of Amakhosi back in 2018 when he had to leave the field early after a bad tackle by back then Free State Stars midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula, with Molangoane suffering a broken ankle.
Molangoane spent over a year out on the sidelines following that incident, but he did manage to bounce back to playing and he was able to find a new club Marumo Gallants in 2020 after leaving Chiefs.
With a positive story of that of Molangoane, most would be hoping to see the veteran Parker make a come back, especially the Galaxy fans.
Phakaaathi would also like to wish Parker a speedy recovery.
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