The Iowa State gymnastics team had an opportunity to bounce back from a home loss with a meet against neighboring rival Illinois but came up short 196.525-195.625.

The team started on bars, not the usual starting event for the Cyclones.  Sophomore Kelsey Paz took the second spot in the line-up and fell but managed to finish her routine and stick her landing, earning an 8.900.

After one round, the Cyclones were down .325 points.

Freshman Meaghan Sievers earned a 9.925 on the vault, and making her one of 18 Iowa State gymnasts to ever earn that score. Sievers took first on the vault but the Cyclones were still closely following behind after two rotations.  

The Cyclones were heading into their favorite event for the third rotation—floor routines. Sievers shined in this event, matching her career-high score of 9.825. Paz also earns a 9.825 with her solid routine, hitting all three passes. Sophomore Haylee Young finished the event and earned a trifecta 9.825 score on her routine.

Entering the final rotation, the Cyclones were still following behind the fighting Illini.

On the beam, senior Alex Marasco finished off the event on a strong note, taking home a score of 9.875 from the judges.

The Cyclones couldn’t catch up to the Fighting Illini, losing the meet 196.525-195.625.