Just a few weeks ago, after a disappointing loss in the season-opening game, Reeths-Puffer boys soccer coach Kody Harrell said he thought offense would be a team strength and defense might be an issue.
As Harrell put it at the time, “I think we are going to be able to generate goals. The question is how we’re going to stop other teams from scoring."
That question has been answered emphatically over the past few games, with great goaltending and rapidly improving play from defenders.
R-P goalie Evan McCollum dives to make a save. Photo/Jeremy Clark
Those qualities were on display again on Wednesday when the Rockets played to a 0-0 tie with crosstown rival Fruitport in a non-conference game.
It was the second shutout in two nights for R-P sophomore goalie Evan McCollum, who stopped 14 Fruitport shots, one night after stopping 13 in a 1-0 win over Mona Shores.
McCollum now has three shutouts on the season, and has only given up three goals in the past five games.
“That’s 27 saves in the last two nights,” Harrell said. “The sophomore is definitely making a name for himself!”
R-P's Kam David (9) takes a shot in front of defenders. Photo/Jeremy Clark
Harrell also had a glowing review of his defenders.
“Jax Sieplinga, Evan McHugh, Andrew Eilers, Ben Clark and Hunter Marvin all played a full 80 minute game on defense!” he said. “Their efforts were amazing in what was a fairly even game in possession and flow back and forth.”
The Rockets are now 2-2-2 overall, which may not be a great record, but is still really good for a very inexperienced team with a lot of new starters this season.
Highlights for the Rockets so far this season include a tie with state-ranked Byron Center, the win over Mona Shores on Tuesday and the tie with state-ranked Fruitport.
R-P's Jax Sieplinga chases a loose ball. Photo/Jeremy Clark
“I just can’t say enough about the growth of our boys,” Harrell said. “The Byron Center result last week is still something I think about, and people reach out to me asking about.
"And then to do what we did yesterday and today in back-to-back rivalry games, within a 24-hour window, is championship level, honestly, although we still have a ton to clean up.”
The Rockets will host Jenison in an O-K Green conference game on Tuesday.
