OAKDALE — Its loss to crosstown rival Sierra Monday knocked East Union High’s sophomore boys basketball team into a first-place tie with Oakdale.

The Squires bounced back in a big way Friday when they recaptured the Valley Oak League’s top spot for themselves with a resounding 57-48 victory on Oakdale’s winter homecoming night.

Brandon Cline and point guard Wayne Cheung led an early charge that had East Union (9-2, 14-4 overall) ahead 20-3 in the first quarter.

Cline ended up with a team-high 21 points and four 3-pointers, while Cheung finished with 14 points. Center Alex Del Real took command in the post, where he recorded six points and 11 rebounds.

“It was the best inside-outside game we’ve had all year,” East Union coach Jeff Lund said.

Oakdale managed to pick away at the early deficit and cut it to single digits by the fourth quarter.

“We showed a lot of poise when they came back,” Lund said. “We hit some free throws, made big (defensive) stops, extended the lead and that was that.”

WESTON RANCH – It came down to the final seconds, but the Cougars ran out of time in a VOL loss to Ceres Friday.

Davieon Leverett led Weston Ranch with a huge effort, finishing with a triple-double. Leverett scored 13 poitns, grabbed 16 boards and compiled 10 blocks for the feat. Dillon Alexander added 15 points and six rebounds, while Daniel Nelson chipped in with 10.

RIPON — Jared Goslinga was one of three Knights to score in double figures, finishing with 16 points. Kalvin Prins finished with 11 points, and Jordan Goslinga 10 in the Trans Valley League contest.

CERES — Ryan Fox led Manteca with 13 points, while Reshawn Bell and Nick Garcia pitched in with seven and six, respectively.

The Buffaloes fell to 6-6 in VOL play, 9-10 overall.