Kickers faced their first two losses in the league last week after playing Rochester and Rochester Adams.
‘It puts a ding in any ego there may have been,? said Adam Bican, Clarkston Boys Varsity Soccer coach.
‘We try to stay humble, but sometimes when you are on a roll, it’s good to put some things in check. Not all losses are bad. Do we want to win every game? Absolutely. But those losses will reveal our character. We will see who steps up this week in districts.?
The first loss came Tuesday night against the Falcons.
Brandon Verlinden scored two goals in the first half and the boys went into the second half with a lead of one.
Rochester scored three goals and the Wolves lost.
The next game, the boys lost 2-1.
‘The two losses were awful. We were banged up a little bit,? said Bican.
He put in players who normally don’t get a lot of game time.
‘They didn’t step up, but I think that’s a good thing because they realize the commitment level every player on the team needs. I think we are really ready for this week.
‘I think Colin Rumschlag, Jarrett Kersten, Isaac Platte played exceptional and have been doing a very good job, as well as Kevin Pinkos,? said Bican. ‘I am very proud of them and they know they have work to do.?
The boys will end their regular season at Troy-Athens on Thursday before district playoffs begin on Monday.
The Wolves drew to play Holly in the first round.
Since the Bronchos loss to Clarkston (8-1) at the beginning of the season, they have been working on improving their record, 6-8-2.
‘You can’t take anyone lightly regardless of a previous score,? said Bican. ‘We are taking the Holly game very seriously.?
‘The boys are excited. I am excited. Clarkston is a good squad,? said Holly Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Mike Steibel.
‘It’s a good way to start districts. The boys are ready play a hard, good team. We will have to bring our top game and be mentally sharp and prepared. We will be fine.?
Holly will end their regular season with a game against Oakland Christian, ranked second in Division 4, on Thursday.
The first round of district playoff is Monday at 6 p.m.