With a scoreless match growing more heated every minute, Veljko Paunovic had no qualms sending on rookie Alex Morrell for his MLS debut in the 84th minute of the Chicago Fire's 0-0 draw at Yankee Stadium Sunday night.
Morrell, selected in the second round (No. 22 overall) of the 2016 MLS SuperDraft, came on in place of Gilberto to provide fresh legs as the Men In Red sought to secure a road result.
“It was an awesome experience, especially in an environment like this," Morrell said after the match. "For them to give me the opportunity and trust in me enough to put me in the game is something special.