Redhawks land lofty score in home win

~ Southeast posted a 194.050 in a dual victory over Illinois State.

Tom Farden acknowledges that he's a hard coach to satisfy.

That's why Farden was pleased, but not content, after Friday night's strong performance by his Southeast Missouri State women's gymnastics team.

The Redhawks followed up a season-opening home upset of Kentucky by breaking the 194-point barrier during a home win over Illinois State.

Southeast beat the Redbirds 194.050 to 192.200 in front of more than 500 fans at Houck Field House.

"For a second meet, it's a really strong score," Farden said. "But this team has a large upside because of its depth and talent, so we can't settle for 194. We have to push for a lot higher."

Considering that the Redhawks did not break the 194 mark until March last season, Farden figures they're headed in the right direction.

Farden hopes that direction leads to a top-25 national ranking in the near future, perhaps as early as Monday.

After scoring 192.625 to beat then-No. 18 Kentucky on Jan. 18, Southeast was ranked 27th.

Now that the Redhawks have pushed their season average above the 193 mark, Farden said: "We'll see how it goes when the rankings come out Monday. It should keep us in the top 30. I don't know if it will move us up."

Friday's top two all-around finishers, junior Sandra Blake and sophomore Rikara Turner, were elated with Southeast's score.

"I'm very excited," Blake said. "That [194] was a goal for tonight."

Added Turner: "It was amazing, but I feel like we can go a lot higher."

Blake scored 38.950 in the all-around to edge Turner, who totaled 38.925.

"When those two have strong outings, it bodes well for our team," Farden said.

Blake tied for first on floor (9.800), while tying for second on beam (9.775), along with Turner.

Also for Southeast, sophomore Jena Nguyen won beam (9.825), freshman Brianna Gaddie tied for first on vault (9.850), and freshman Lauren Dinan and sophomore Jacqueline Heath tied for first on bars (9.775).

"Our freshmen are doing very well," Farden said.

The Redhawks got a third place from junior Starlyn Schwartz on vault (9.750).

Southeast's vault score of 48.725 ranks ninth on the school's all-time list.

Farden and his gymnasts said they appreciatived more than 500 fans showing up for the second straight meet.

"I'm just really happy the community has embraced our program," Farden said.

The Redhawks have another home meet Feb. 2 when Iowa visits Houck Field House.