Earthquakes Homegrown defender Nick Lima has been on the club’s roster for roughly a year and a half, but has already made the most of his brief time in San Jose. The Castro Valley, Calif. native earned his first call-up to the U.S. Men’s National Team and finished as a finalist for the 2017 MLS Rookie of the Year award, among other accomplishments.
On Wednesday, he was rewarded with a new multi-year contract, ensuring his spot with the black and blue for years to come.
Here are his top five individual moments to look back on before looking forward:
5. Assist vs. New England Revolution on June 13, 2018.
With the Quakes trailing 2-1, Lima received a long pass from Yeferson Quintana and swung in a perfect cross to Danny Hoesen for the equalizer. His first-time cross found the Dutch striker despite multiple defenders in the immediate vicinity.
4. Assist vs. Atlanta United FC on July 4, 2017
Playing in Atlanta is one of the biggest challenges in MLS right now, but Lima’s contributions nearly lifted the Quakes to a surprise result on the Fourth of July. Trailing 2-1, while down a man, Lima’s deep left-footed cross was placed in the one and only spot it could have been to find Chris Wondolowski.
3. Goal vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC on March 11, 2017
Making just his second professional appearance, Lima scored his first career goal to help San Jose erase an early 2-0 deficit. The Quakes would go on to win 3-2.
2. Goal vs. Colorado Rapids on July 29, 2017
Needing a critical three points at home, Lima received a corner kick outside the penalty area and blasted his shot past the goalkeeper. It would go on to be the first game-winning goal of his career.
1. Goal vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC on May 16, 2018
A wonder strike, Lima’s left-footed curler helped San Jose secure a point on the road against a dangerous Vancouver side. It earned him a spot on the MLS Goal of the Week ballot.
Honorable Mention: Dribble vs. Columbus Crew SC on Aug. 5, 2017
The most iconic of all Nick Lima dribbles, the Homegrown product slipped past Columbus Crew SC defender Jukka Raitala with a slick move. The Finnish defender was left wondering what just happened.
