Unlike other athletic rankings, collegiate gymnastic rankings are not based on wins and losses, but rather by meet scores.

So when it comes down to it, winning doesn't mean anything.

"But it's still in the back of our minds," said the team's lone senior, Nikki Beyschau.

After last season's loss to a lower-ranked Oregon State team, the Gymcats (1-0, 0-0) are looking for a little revenge tonight at home in their conference opener in McKale Center at 7:30.

"They beat us at their place last year, but we're going to get them this year," said Beyschau about last season's 196.475-195.625 loss.

The Gymcats come in ranked No. 11, while the Beavers are ranked one better this time. The all-time series between the two teams is tied at 17 wins apiece.

The Beavers' (2-1, 0-1) lone loss this season came to the nation's No. 1 ranked team, the UCLA Bruins, in Honolulu.

"They are a very good program," UA head coach Bill Ryden said.

OSU is entering its third straight road trip, having already competed in Hawaii and Lansing, Mich. The Beavers defeated Michigan State last week and completed 24-of-24 routines - the first time they have done that since the 1996 Pac-10 Championships.

Oregon State is anchored by All-Americans Elizabeth Jillson (bars) and Tanya Ricioli (all-around).

"We have to once again be the best we can because they will be good," said Ryden, who won his 50th career meet last weekend against Minnesota. "I guarantee you that they will be good, and we have to be ready."

Friday's meet will also mark a homecoming for freshman Angela Morales, who graduated from Canyon del Oro High School last year. She will compete in three events.

If the Gymcats are going to win, they are going to need a better start on the bars, which didn't happen in their season opener against Minnesota.

"We know that the scoring is important, but the girls are really competitive and they like to walk off the floor knowing they've won," Ryden said.