ANN ARBOR, Mich. – No. 6 Penn State men's gymnastics fell to No. 5 Michigan 425.500-413.600 at Cliff Keen Arena Sunday afternoon.
The team posted their highest overall score of the season as well as team highs on floor (68.600), rings (71.200) and vault (72.100).
"Some real bright spots tonight, but just was not enough to overtake Michigan on their Senior Night," said head coach Randy Jepson. "We made some great improvements on vault and our rings were very solid. Overall our execution is trending in the right direction - just at the right time. I am optimistic about how things are coming together for the post season, but first we have a great meet to prepare for Saturday against Illinois."
Junior Josh Karnes competed in the all-around first time this season, posting a score of 81.200. The Erie, Pa. native collected two career highs on floor (14.500) and on rings (14.150). Karnes placed second on floor.
Senior Michael Jaroh led the way for the Nittany Lions on pommel horse, earning a career high score of 14.700 to take the individual event victory.
Sophomore Caleb Melton took second on vault in his collegiate debut. The Woodbridge, Va. native stuck the landing to collect a score of 14.650.
Michael Artlip placed third on vault with a career high of 14.600. The senior also competed on high bar, earning a score of 13.900. Artlip came in as the alternate when Matt Cormier got injured during his routine.
Freshman Luke Esparo tallied his third rings victory of the season with a career high score of 14.450 and a stick bonus.
The Nittany Lions move to 3-2 overall and 1-2 in the Big Ten.
Penn State men's gymnastics will finish the regular season at home against. No. 3 Illinois Saturday, March 23 at 4 p.m. for Senior Day. The Nittany Lions will recognize Brandon Campbell and Nate Warren for their contributions to the program before the meet.