ROME, Ga. -- Two lightning delays and three first half goals by the host team were enough to defeat the Covenant women's soccer team on Friday afternoon. Berry outlasted the Lady Scots and the weather to post a 3-0 victory in the opening match of the Berry Invitational.

Covenant falls to 0-1 on the season while Berry goes to 1-0.

After the teams had completed their warm-ups and began the match, play was halted less than two minutes into the first half due to a lightning strike. Per NCAA rules, the squads had to wait 30 minutes before returning to the pitch.

Once play resumed, Berry wasted little time in getting on the board as Maggie Midkiff netted the opening score inside the box off a cross from teammate Molly Johnson to put the Vikings up 1-0 in the seventh minute.

Berry would notch another score in the 14th minute as a ball in the box was deflected in by Sara Dillon.

After a second 30-minute lightning delay, Kim Fischer finished the scoring in the opening period with a goal in the 43rd minute, assist to Tessa Piety, to make it 3-0.

Covenant struggled on the offensive side as they were credited with two shots total, one being on goal. Freshman Anna Porch had her shot attempt stifled just in front of the goal line by Berry keeper Melissa Sanchez early on in the first half. Jessica Rowe had the only other attempt for the Lady Scots.

Covenant keeper Hannah Bales (0-1) made the start and saved six shots. Lucy Johnson also saw time at the net and she made three saves.

Covenant will have to bounce back quickly as they take on Guilford tomorrow at 3 p.m. in the final match of the Berry Invitational in Rome, Ga.