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SBI MLS Rookie of the Week: John Berner

John Berner

Photo by Howard C. Smith/ISIPhotos.com

By IVES GALARCEP

Earning your first professional start brings with it enough nerves, but earning that first start as a goalkeeper taking on Thierry Henry and the New York Red Bulls made things that much tougher for Colorado Rapids rookie John Berner.

If he was nervous, Berner didn’t show it. He commanded his penalty area well, showed decisiveness and poise, and made an important save to help the Rapids earn a 1-1 draw against the Red Bulls. His performance earned him SBI Rookie of the Year honors.

Berner beat out a field of rookies including Harrison Shipp and Tommy McNamara, who both did well in starting roles in draws.

What did you think of Berner’s performance? Which rookie impressed you the most in MLS Week Two?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. Was front row behind the goal for the game. Berner was def. nervous.
    I don’t think I ever saw anyone drink as much water as he did. He wasn’t all that active, but drank like a camel. Took quite a few deep breaths before kickoff.

    Reply
    • So hes nervous because he drank a lot of water and took deep breathes?? Get out of here. I talked to him right after the game. He wasnt nervous. Its just another game and day.

      Reply
  2. Nice recognition and a nice little feather in Berner”s hat. If Irwin is healthy it might be a while until Berner gets another game. However, it’s gives me great confidence that the Rapids have steady, solid depth at GK. Berner looked the part and he didn’t show any rookie nerves whatsoever. He went out there and played his game and it helped earn a vital road point for the Rapids.

    Reply
    • Berner definitely looked like a veteran out there. Too bad for him that he’s still probably the third string keeper and won’t likely see another game this season

      Reply
    • No blame to Berner on the Henry goal. That was O’Neill’s lack of experience at RB showing. Great debut for Berner!

      Reply

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