The East Union girls sophomore basketball team put forth a valiant fight but fell short in its quest of giving the Sonora Wildcats their first loss in a 49-47 heartbreaker Thursday at the Dalben Center.

East Union made its plight more difficult, falling behind the Wildcats in the third period after heading into the intermission with a one-point lead. Sonora caught fire in that third period, outscoring East Union 19-7 to pull ahead by double-digits.

The Lances refused to go quietly, giving Sonora a genuine scare with a blistering fourth quarter run. East Union outscored Sonora 22-13 in the final period, but a last-second shot attempt came up empty and Sonora escaped with its 10 straight league win.

East Union (7-3 VOL, 12-8) was led by Kristen Piasecki’s 18 points and teammate Allison Telles finished with 12. Klasey Kachalkin rounded out the Lancer scoring with a dozen.

CERES – The Timberwolves had no answer for Ceres High, falling in Thursday’s VOL matchup.

Shelby Shirron and Alison Armstrong both finished with six points for Sierra. Shirron also paced the club with 14 boards, while teammate Onyx Malone pulled down nine.

RIPON — Ruth Waters poured in nine if host Ripon’s 17 first-quarter points and finished with 19 to lead all players.

Tia Sidteiken added 10 points for the Indians, who improved to 3-1 in the Trans Valley League and 17-3overall.

RIPON — Ripon (2-0, 9-7) led 19-12 at halftime and held on for the victory. Sarah Freeman pumped in 15 points to lead the way.