Aleah Finnegan knew that LSU was a beam team, it just took some time for others to see it as well.
“I don’t think we have a weak event. I think we’re pretty even through all four events. We’re finally just showing how capable we are on that event,” Finnegan stated after No. 3 LSU defeated No. 12 Auburn, 198.300 to 197.100, and ended the evening with her fifth perfect 10 of her career and third on floor exercise.
Before floor, Finnegan found herself repeating a phrase that is new to her but has been helping her mindset in competition. “I told myself to throw my brain out. I really just tried to think less, and it’s so helpful having a team around you that constantly believes in you and is trusting that you are going to do exactly what you need to do.”
Finnegan’s night started out with the NCAA competitive debut of her Yurchenko one and a half, earning a 9.950 with a 10.0 from one judge. It was a move that head coach Jay Clark says has been intended all season but was delayed due to a minor wrist injury.
“It was easier on her wrist to turn and come into the table forward, so that’s why we went back to the [Omelianchik]. I realize she’s going to land [the Yurchenko vault] better, but it’s about her health.”
While LSU was on vault, Auburn started…
