East Union picked up a much-needed victory during its toughest stretch in Valley Oak League play Monday, holding off visiting Weston Ranch in four — 25-23, 25-22, 21-25, 26-24.

“Both teams played hard and it was a very competitive match,” East Union coach Rich Posz said. “That’s what the VOL is all about.”

East Union (3-1, 15-3-2) is facing the league’s top four teams from a year ago in a row. It is coming off a four-game loss to Kimball, the VOL’s No. 3 postseason qualifier in 2012. Up next is the conference reigning co-champions back at Dalben Center, first with Oakdale on Wednesday and Sonora next Monday, Oct. 7.

Leading the Lancers against Weston Ranch was Regina Dias, who amassed 20 kills. Jami Arceo recorded 14 service points, Monica King collected 16 digs and Courtney Posz set 13 assists.

For Weston Ranch (0-4, 4-5) it was yet another tough defeat for a club that expected to compete for a playoff berth. The Cougars started their league schedule with consecutive five-game defeats to Kimball and Manteca before getting swept by Sonora.

Weston Ranch’s Victoria Gulley scored a match-high 21 kills Monday. Alex Marapao dished out 33 assists, and Donna Marapao finished with 14 digs.



Sophomore

East Union 2,

Weston Ranch 0

The Squires (3-1, 14-1) bounced back well from their first loss of the year with Monday’s gem against Weston Ranch. Scores were 25-21, 25-10.

East Union fed off the serving prowess of Deja Guzman. She served five straight points early in both games, giving the team leads of 8-2 and 7-2, respectively.

Mariah Jeffrey spearheaded the attack with six kills to go with two blocks. Alissa Burrola added six service points and had 17 digs.



Freshman

East Union 2,

Weston Ranch 0

The Pages (4-0, 13-0) continued their hot start to the season behind the efforts of Vanessa Garcia (4 kills), Loretta Kakala (2 points) and Lacquel Daigle (3 kills).