March 1, 2013
COLLEGE STATION, Texas -
The second-ranked Auburn equestrian team fell to sixth-ranked Texas A&M, 10-7, Friday in its first of three road meets for the weekend. The Aggies improved to 5-5 (1-4 SEC), while the Tigers fell to 8-2 (4-2 SEC).
"We couldn't get enough rides to go our way today, so it felt unfortunate, but we will move on," Auburn head coach Greg Williams said. "I still see a team that is getting primed for the post season, and I feel great about our riders. I'm proud of our girls that earned three of the four MOP honors today."
Auburn began the meet with a 3-2 win over fences, earning points from Elizabeth Benson (86-79), Quincy Hayes (77-70) and Hasbrouck Donovan (78-72).
The Tigers fell behind after horsemanship as the Aggies won the first reining event, 3-1. Auburn's lone point came from Katsy Leeman (75-70.5). At the midway point, the Tigers trailed 5-4.
Texas A&M pulled ahead after equitation on the flat, winning that event, 3-1. The Tigers earned a point from Benson (86-83) who collected both Hunt Seat MOP awards for the day.
Behind 8-5 going into the final event, the win would be just out of reach for Auburn as the teams split reining, 2-2. Cheyenne Cracraft (75.5-74.5) and Indy Roper (76.5-68.5) earned points for the Tigers, while Roper picked up her fifth MOP award of the season.
Auburn returns to action Saturday as it takes on No. 6 Baylor from Waco, Texas. The meet is set to begin at 10 a.m. CT.
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