RIPON — The Ripon High girls golf team continued its steady path toward a second straight Valley Foothill League North Division title on Thursday, beating Linden 147-195 at Jack Tone Golf Course.

 Simpson-bound senior Alex Gonzales and Breeana Huckell each led the way with 3-over-par 35s. Laura Williams was close behind with a 36, and Claire Wever finished with a 41. Linden (2-8) was paced by Jacqueline Herrins’ 40.

“My top three players played solid today — 147 is a good score in the wind,” Ripon coach Eric Dambrosio said. “Hopefully we can take this momentum into next week.”

The regular season just so happens to end with the Indians’ two closest competitors starting with second-place Bret Harte next Tuesday back at Jack Tone. They’ll then travel to third-place Escalon on Oct. 13. 

Ripon is 10-0 and can looks to capture the league championship at the VFL Tournament set for Oct. 17 at Micke Grove golf Links in Lodi.

Valley Oak League

Central Catholic 266, Sierra 289

MODESTO — Legacy Barnes finished the regular season strong Thursday, placing first with a 45 for Sierra (4-10) at Dryden Park Golf Course.

Central Catholic’s Gianna Van Klaaveren was the runner-up with a 46. The Raiders improved to 8-5.

Others scoring for Sierra were Bryanna Gavino (52), Kaitlynn Looney (58), Aubrey White (65) and Hailee Looney (69). 

BOYS WATER POLO

Ripon 15, Calaveras 7

SAN ANDREAS — Ripon ended a solid first week of VOL action Thursday with a dominant win at Calaveras. 

The Indians (2-0) rallied for four unanswered goals in the third quarter to take a 13-5 lead. Lucas Esenwein scored both of his goals in the period to key the run. Ty Wells paced Ripon with five goals, Noah Esenwein had four, Mika West contributed three and Jaskehar Sekhon added one.

Ripon plays its first home match next Tuesday against Central Catholic.