NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Piedmont 1, Berry 0
Records: Piedmont, 1-0; Berry, 0-2

DEMOREST, Ga. - The Piedmont women's soccer team scored with just over five minutes to go to deliver a 1-0 win over Berry in its season opener Saturday afternoon at the Walker Athletic Complex.

Earning just their third corner kick of the game, freshman VICTORIA SIERRA played a ball in and KAITY HEMPERLY put away the game winner as the Lady Lions held off the Vikings for the shutout victory.

Freshman goalkeeper LAILA ALLEN made seven saves in her first career start for Piedmont, stifling multiple scoring opportunities for Berry to keep the game scoreless down the stretch.

While the Vikings held the shot advantage by a 24-6 margin, they were unable to find the back of the net, allowing Piedmont to win its first game in the series since 2018.

The goal for Hemperly was the third of her Piedmont career.

Out of the gate, the Lady Lions had a few good scoring chances but Berry goalkeeper Maggie Jones came up with a pair of saves.

However, from the midway point of the first half, the Vikings controlled possession and held an 11-4 edge in shots at the break.

Most of the second half was more of the same, as Berry had multiple chances but were unable to convert, leaving the door open for Hemperly's game winner.

Up next, the Lady Lions are scheduled to travel and battle Birmingham-Southern on Monday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.

TURNING POINT:
- With the score knotted at 0-0, the freshman Sierra delivered a beautiful corner kick and Hemperly finished off the goal after a touch from sophomore MARISSA TAGHON.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
- LAILA ALLEN made seven saves in her Piedmont debut in goal.
- Sierra and Taghon each delivered their first career assists.
- Hemperly found the back of the net for the game-winner, the first 

HOW TO FOLLOW:
- To stay up to date on all information regarding Piedmont University Athletics, be sure to visit PiedmontLions.com and connect with the Green and Gold on social media. Follow the Lions on Twitter: @PiedmontLions, Instagram: @PiedmontLions, and Facebook. To follow each Piedmont athletic program on social media, use the Social Media Directory at PiedmontLions.com or click here.