Photo by ISIphotos.com
When the Chicago Fire selected University of Louisville centerback Austin Berry with their first-round pick in January's SuperDraft, they hoped they were getting a player who could come in and contribute immediately. While injuries across the Fire back line may have accelerated his growth curve, Berry has certainly proved that he was ready for the rigors of MLS all along.
Berry, who has played every minute of the Fire's last 20 matches since becoming a regular starter, helped guide the team to a 3-1 record in August, a month in which the club shot up to third place in the Eastern Conference. His game-winning goal against Toronto FC on Aug. 4 set the tone for another standout month from an individual stanpoint for Berry, who captured SBI MLS Rookie of the Month honors.
Berry beat out a competitive group of candidates for the monthly honors, including his former Louisville teammate and D.C. United winger Nick DeLeon (two goals, assist in four games); Toronto FC's Luis Silva (three goals in all competitions) and New York Red Bulls versatile rookie Connor Lade (five strong 90-minute performances in midfield and right back).
What have you thought of Berry's play? Do you think he belongs among the top candidates for Rookie of the Year? Which rookie do you think had the best month of August?
Share your thoughts below.
Berry’s nod is well deserved. Shows maturity and composure in the CB position of a vet. Makes mistakes, but having Arne Friedrich alongside him is about as good a teacher as you’re going to get. If the powers that be actually give a defender ROTY honors, Berry’s a no-brainer.
Well deserved by Berry. He’s been an absolute revelation for the Fire. Going into the season there were some serious questions about the depth of our back line with a rookie and a sophomore (Anibaba) behind Friedrich and Gibbs. Then when Gibbs went down, the alarm bells started ringing. Berry silenced them.
Anibaba does a great job at center back, but Berry has locked down his spot. The best part is that he’s pairing with such a brilliant partner in Friedrich – his calm and steady play is a great model for Berry.
DeLo was great but maybe because DCU had a real crappy month he didn’t get it.
Nice to see a defender get some props. Kids doing a great job, but obviously will improve with time.
GO FIRE!!
Dear David St. Hubbins,
Stick to music.
Regards,
Ian Faith
idiot
shoulda been deleon or silva