Jan. 29, 2005

Results

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - In their first match of the season at home in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 1,241, the Illini had a big challenge ahead of them, hosting ninth-ranked Denver. Despite a season-high team score, the Orange and Blue were unable to overcome the Pioneers who defeated Illinois 195.025-194.150.

Sophomore Cara Pomeroy was a double-winner with a first-place finish on bars and beam, posting a 9.875 and a 9.825, respectively. Both scores were also season-highs for the Ottawa, Ontario native.

"We did a really good job, focusing on what had to be done," said head coach Bob Starkell. "We had to make some changes, but we did okay with them. We had to change our lineup, and our top vaulters, but overall, they did a good job. Unfortunately, we just didn't have high enough start values to compete with (Denver)."

Despite the lineup adjustments, the Orange and Blue relied on their veterans, who responded with solid scores, leading the team to a season high. Senior Ashley Williams had season high scores on vault (9.875), beam (9.800)and floor (9.700), while Kara Kapernekas followed suite with a season-best all around score of 38.250.

Up Next: The Fighting Illini welcome Illinois State, Illinois-Chicago and Iowa to Champaign Saturday, Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. in Huff Hall.

MEET RESULTS TOTAL V UB BB FX
1. Denver 195.025 49.025 48.500 48.525 48.975
2. Illinois 194.150 48.525 48.250 48.675 48.700