The Iowa State Gymnastics team fell to Minnesota 193.7-191.9, despite top performances on the vault and balance beam Saturday at Hilton Coliseum. The loss dropped the Cyclones’ record to 2-3 on the season.

“This was the most disappointing loss of the year. It was frustrating from the standpoint that we have the most talented team ever here and we can’t put it together. We need to get more mentally tough,” said Head Coach Amy Pyle.

The Cyclones continued to perform well on the vault as they have all year totaling a 48.475, the second-highest mark in school history.

Junior Amy Wall continued her solid season on the vault by taking top honors for the second straight meet with a personal best score of 9.825.

Freshman Kelly Cherwein contributed a 9.750 and junior Heidi Kirt posted a 9.675 for the Cyclone effort.

“Amy’s competing a new vault this season and she’s upped it even more. She’s been working really hard and her desire to improve has put her as the top vaulter this season,” Pyle said.

Continued improvement on the balance beam proved to pay big dividends as senior Kim Mazza, junior Kayo Merritt, and junior Shannon Herzog each recorded a 9.825 to tie for third in the event. Michelle Hladky also contributed a 9.725.

“Kayo Merritt did a phenomenal job on the beam to start off the competition. She was the star performer of the meet,” Pyle said.

The Cyclones posted their highest balance beam score of the season Saturday scoring a 48.475.

Kim Mazza led the Cyclones on the floor exercise.

The senior recorded a score of 9.80 to tie for third place.

Junior Libby Bell performed well with a 9.675 while Heidi Kirt recorded a 9.60 for the Cyclones.

“Bars is one of our best events. We can hit routines in practice but are yet to hit them in a meet.” Pyle said.

Libby Bell led ISU on the uneven bars posting a score of 9.70, placing her in a tie for third place. Amy Wall came through with a 9.675 and freshman Sarah Stayberg performed a 9.650.

“Minnesota opened the door for us on the beam and the floor with their falls, but we didn’t rise to the occasion and take advantage of the opportunity,” Pyle said.

The Cyclones compete next against Missouri Feb. 14 at Hilton Coliseum. Competition begins at 7 p.m.

“We’re going to do a lot more mental preparation this week and rest. They worked very hard and were very determined to do well at home and that resulted in an emotional strain. Hopefully we’ll hit on Friday,” Pyle said.