RIPON — Needing a win to keep pace with Southern Athletic League-leading Orestimba, Ripon Christian fended off postseason hopeful Mariposa 25-10-, 25-21, 26-24 on Thursday.
Winners of six straight SAL titles, the Knights (10-2, 16-14 overall) have won eight consecutive league matches with Orestimba holding a one match lead over them with two to go.
“The girls came out very strong and confident, which I was proud of,” Ripon Christian coach Jocelyn Benziger said. “We were able to try a lot of different options in the lineups. There was added pressure and confusion as a result, but they did a great job pursuing and pushing through.”
Paige Vos led a balanced attack with 12 kills to go with a pair of solo blocks. Mackenzie Miller (three blocks) contributed eight kills, Taylor Anema had seven, Megan Bos six and Renae Heida four. Taylor Alger dished out 31 assists, while Bethany Silveira picked up six digs.
Ripon 3, Riverbank 0
RIPON — The Indians (7-3 Trans-Valley League, 9-12 overall) blasted winless Riverbank (0-10, 0-16), 25-8, 25-7, 25-12.
Sophomore outside hitter Jordynn Russell took advantage of extended playing time, rapping out a team-high seven kills. Alyssa Barrios contributed six kills and two blocks. Jessica Stanley (four kills, two blocks), Mia Van Lewen (two kills, two aces, digs), Janessa Inderbitzin (four kills, four assists, block), Rachelk Sausedo (11 assists, six aces) and Shannon Johnson (12 assists, two aces) were other standouts.
BOYS POLO
Ripon 17, Bret Harte 12
ANGELS CAMP — The Indians jumped out to a 9-2 lead, expanded it to 15-3 by halftime then put it on cruise control as they improved to 5-0 and clinched at least a share of the Valley Oak League title. They’ll look to capture sole possession in the regular-season finale next Tuesday against visiting Kimball.
Noah Esenwein racked up six goals, while Ty Wells added five. Lucas Esenwein chipped in three goals and four steals.
Goalie Mathew De La O finished with 12 saves.
GIRLS POLO
Ripon 11, Bret Harte 4
ANGELS CAMP — Ripon (3-2) rolled to victory behind five goals and three steals from Mallory Brubaker.
Freshman Molly Burton added three goals. Darrian DeLeon, Amy Bacay and Eleanor Tran added one goal each. Madyson Valencia came up with six saves at goal.
