Replacing perhaps the team's most valuable player is a lot to ask of a rookie.
But when Union forward Fabian Herbers' number was called, he stepped up in place of C.J. Sapong, who injured his ankle June 1 and has not played since.
"I knew it was a good ankle sprain, and I was mentally prepared already for my first start," Herbers said. "I was excited, and the coaches talked to me and said, 'Just do your thing.' "
Were there any nerves as a 22-year-old taking on that responsibility?
"I was nervous when I made my debut," Herbers said, "but right now I feel comfortable.