Eventually the Reeths-Puffer boys soccer team, with a lot of first-year players, was bound to lose a game.
The Rockets had been off to a stunning start to the season, posting a 4-0-1 record heading into their matchup against Traverse City Central. That included a very convincing conference victory over rival Mona Shores on Wednesday.
But the Trojans from the north brought the Rockets back to earth on Friday, visiting R-P and leaving with a 5-0 victory.
TC Central built a 3-0 lead by halftime, then added two more goals. The Trojans had a 9-4 advantage in shots on goal. 
R-P's Zac Sampson (10) brings the ball up the field. Photo/Joe Lane
It was the first time Reeths-Puffer was shut out this season. Before Friday, the fewest goals the Rockets had scored in a game were two, and the most goals they had given up were two.
“They did an amazing job of countering us,” said R-P Coach Kody Harrell. “They had some amazing athletes up top that caught us flat-footed at times, and you could tell it was our third game of the week.
“They boys weren’t themselves, but they didn’t quit. We are excited for the opportunity to bounce back and show how we can play in the face of adversity.”
The Rockets will have another big test on Tuesday when they host undefeated Byron Center in a key O-K Green conference game.
The teams are each 2-0 in conference play and are tied at the top of the standings. Every other conference team has at least one loss.