Orestimba took out its frustrations on Gustine after a disappointing loss earlier in the week, dealing the Redskins a 73-46 setback Friday night in Newman.

The Warriors took control after a close first quarter, building a 36-18 halftime lead on the way to their first conference victory after three WAC setbacks.

“This was a big game for us. We were the only team in the league that hadn’t won a game going into Friday,” said Coach Rob Pecot. “It was a must for us to win that game.”

Pecot said the Warriors were able to take the Redskins out of their sets and not let them get into any offensive rhythm. “We did a good job of pressuring them, and we were able to score a lot of points off turnovers,” he noted.

Pecot also credited his team’s collective effort in keeping Gustine’s Clint Manzo under wraps.

“Our tallest guy is 6-1, and he is 6-5,” Pecot pointed out. “We did a good job of swarming him.”

Orestimba, which picked up its first win in four conference games, was coming off a sub-par game earlier in the week against Hilmar.

“They were embarrassed by that game. They would have gone right back out and played if they could,” Pecot remarked. “Their effort Friday was a testament to them. They were ready to play on Friday.”

Everybody on the Warrior roster scored against Gustine, and the Warriors had four players reach double figures.

Craig Beevers led the way with 19 points, Tyler Brazil and Chris Messer each put up 15 points and Ravonne Pious finished with 10.

Hilmar 61, Orestimba 52

The Warriors could not keep pace with the Yellowjackets Tuesday. Orestimba was within striking distance through most of the game, trailing by six at the half and cutting the Hilmar lead to 42-39 after three quarters, but the Yellowjackets took control in the fourth.

“It was disappointing,” said Pecot. “We learned that you have to play hard or it is going to be a long year.”

Shooting troubles that had plagued Orestimba in recent games again were a factor in the loss to Hilmar.

“We haven’t shot the ball well in a couple of weeks, and it was affecting everything else,” Pecot remarked. “You still have to rebound, take the ball to the rim and play hard defensively, even when you aren’t shooting the ball well.”

Orestimba faces a rugged schedule this week.

The Warriors hosted Central Catholic Tuesday. Orestimba visits Patterson Friday, and will entertain Livingston on Saturday. Hilmar comes calling next Tuesday.