Michigan State Gymnastics Stumbles At LSU

Jan. 28, 2005

EAST LANSING, Mich. - No. 15 Michigan State gymnastics fell to No. 7 Louisiana State in Baton Rouge, La., on Friday, Jan. 28. The Spartans posted 191.425, while the Tigers had 197.250.

While MSU defeated LSU in a smashing season-opening performance in East Lansing on Jan. 7, the Tigers managed to post top scores in every event at the Maravich Center on Friday.

"It was a really tough loss," said MSU head coach Kathie Klages. "Our lineup had to be rearranged due to an injury and, without a full team, it is extremely difficult to perform."

Ever-resilient, the Spartans readily took on the challenge that faced them.

Senior Jennifer Yarbrough took second place in the all-around, registering 38.175 for her efforts. Junior Sarah Alexander, still struggling with a shoulder injury, managed to finish sixth overall on beam. Sophomore Chayla Hill's floor performance earned her sixth place as well.

"We had a rough start on vault," Klages said. "We continued to struggle on bars and floor, but beam made for a positive finish. We are ready to put this meet behind us and focus on what lies ahead."

Up next, MSU returns home to face Northern Illinois at Jenison Field House on Sunday, Jan. 30 at 4 p.m.