The 7th ranked Auburn Tigers (4-5, 2-3 SEC) host the 14th ranked Georgia Bulldogs (6-8, 1-4 SEC) inside a sold out Neville Arena on Friday, February 24 at 6:30 PM CT. Here’s a preview of what to expect before the first vault.
Following Auburn’s season low score, a loss in Columbia, Missouri (196.550), the Tigers were faced with a short week of practice before hitting the floor once again in another primetime SEC showdown. Head coach Jeff Graba does not seem to be worried with where his squad is currently sitting.
“We mapped out the year to make sure we rested those that will need it… I think we’re in a good spot with our depth and this short turnaround should be okay for us”, Graba voiced, possibly explaining why the team stumbled across lower than usual scores against Mizzou.
Auburn head coach Jeff Graba also had high praise for the Bulldogs, and said he knows his squad will only get the best from here on out.
“Georgia is a good team that we need to take seriously… We’re fully prepared that we’ll get their best shot. This will be a big meet for us as we get closer to postseason”, coach Graba said.
Georgia is coming off a string of two straight losses, however, posted its season high score last time out, scoring 197.325 at home against the Crimson Tide. The GymDogs posted their best beam and floor scores of the season in the final two rotations, scoring 49.400 and 49.500, respectively. Georgia head coach praised the feeling of “home” in regard to their overall success.
“Being on the road is a little bit more taxing and a little more difficult… you have to make adjustments. I’m very glad we had some sort of challenges along the way, but it is nice to get [the team] back in more of a comfort,” Carter said. “They know the equipment, they know their routine here… to have all of Stegman cheering for them, I know they had so much fun”.
Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, their homestand does not last for too long, as they head down to the ‘loveliest village on the plains’ to take on what is sure to be an amazing atmosphere.
“We love being at home. There really isn't anything like Neville Arena”, Auburn sophomore Sophia Groth said about her excitement to be back home.
Her excitement is equivalent or even overshadowed by the excitement of the Auburn fans, as all 9,121 seats inside Neville Arena (plus standing room only), will be “Swag Surfin” along with the girls before putting on a show on the floor.
The Tigers layout will be as follows: vault, bars, beam, and floor. If you are unable to attend and/or want to watch the action live, the meet will be televised on the SEC Network, starting at 6:30 PM CT.
