The Fruitport wrestling team had one of its toughest nights of the season on Wednesday.

The Trojans actually went 1-1, with a 62-23 victory over Forest Hills Eastern and a disappointing 55-15 loss to Reeths-Puffer.

But the victory was kind of hollow, because the Trojans gained all of their wins and team points on forfeits. They won 10 of the 14 matches, while FHE won all four of the matches were there was actual competition.

Fruitport’s Phillip Stone-Tyler flips his opponent. Photo/Joe Lane

There was a lot more live wrestling against a very strong Reeths-Puffer squad, but the Trojans struggled, winning only three of the 14 matches.

Fruitport’s Zach Aardema pinned Reeths-Puffer’s Blake Miller in the 120-pound match. Cooper Lengkeek pinned R-P’s Bryce Muskovin at 144 pounds.

Luke Westerlund won a 7-1 decision over R-P’s Devin Welch at 215 pounds.

All in all, it wasn’t a very good night for the young Fruitport squad, which has had its share of success so far this season, including a nice third-place finish at last weekend’s GMAA City Meet.

Fruitport’s Davis Johnson battles his opponent from his feet. Photo/Joe Lane

“Reeths-Puffer is tough and well-coached,” said Fruitport head coach Chad Johnson. “I have a lot for respect for Jared (Fleming), he is doing a great job over there.

“We got outwrestled tonight, we have to do a better job of winning situations and wrestling when we are down. We have a lot to work on over the next two days at practice before we compete with some tough teams at the Randy Jacobs Tournament this weekend in Montague.

“We are looking forward to the challenge.”

Fruitport’s Blair Zimmer tries to keep his balance against his R-P opponent. Photo/Joe Lane

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