The losing streak is over for the Union High boys basketball team.

The Scotties’ defense came through in the final three quarters last night to rally past Winchester Thurston in nonsection action, 42-38. Union broke a 15-game losing streak dating back to last season’s WPIAL Class A playoff defeat against Vincentian Academy.

“We just told them to take it a little more personal,” Scotties coach Dave Smialowski said of his team’s defensive effort. “Sometimes we get relaxed on defense, but we just told them to lock their man down and get after it and I thought they really worked hard.”

Union (1-14) trailed 15-11 after the first quarter, but the Bears (7-3) didn’t reach double figures in any quarter the rest of the way.

“I’m just so happy for the kids,” Smialowski said. “I told them after the game that I’m happy for them, they’ve worked hard all year and they deserve to win some games.

“For whatever reason, things just haven’t worked out this year. Hopefully we can build off it and get a couple more wins; I know they won’t give up.”

Markel Peace led the Scotties with 12 points, while Drew Robinson and Joe Salmen netted six apiece. Tre Major pulled down a team-high seven rebounds.

“We’ve struggled to score all year; that’s been our biggest problem,” Smialowski said. “I’m glad we got a taste of victory.”

Jon Holder led all scorers with 19 points for Winchester Thurston.