Escalon got one step closer to clinching the Valley Foothill League’s North Division championship Tuesday after beating second-place Ripon 160-175 at Escalon Golf Course.

The visiting Indians (8-3) took a hit midway through the match when No. 2 golfer Alex Gonzales walked off the course with a sore wrist. With three Escalon players scoring in the 30s her score likely wouldn’t have changed the outcome.

“It hampered us a little bit but we didn’t play very well today,” Ripon coach Eric Dambrosio said. “Plus, Escalon is a very good and experienced team with four seniors. I have one senior and the rest are sophomores and freshmen, and two of them had never played on that course before.”

The Cougars’ four scoring contributors topped Ripon’s. Molly Landon was low medalist with a 3-over 34 and was followed by 38s from Maddie Kindsberg and Piper Rockwell. Angelica Fernandez added a 40 for Escalon (12-0).

Scoring for Ripon were Laura Williams (42), Erin Wever (42), Claire Wever (43) and Breeana Huckell (48).

Ripon looks to avenge a previous loss to Linden (8-3) in the regular-season finale Thursday at Jack Tone Golf Course. The VFL—North Tournament is set for Oct. 20 at Micke Grove Golf Links.

Valley Oak League

East Union 242, Weston Ranch 374

Brooke Riley finished 1-under 36 to lead East Union (11-0, 15-0 overall) on Manteca Park Golf Course’s front nine.

Chloe Cardenas (47), Rebeca Leonard (51), Natalie Cowan (52) and Michaela Pangburn (56) also contributed for the Lancers, who will look to complete an undefeated regular season today against Central Catholic.

Jessica Fotheringham turned in a 68 for Weston Ranch.

The VOL Tournament takes place next Tuesday at Stockton’s Swenson Park Golf Course.