FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. -- Emma Riggs scored the eventual game-winning goal in the 86th minute and the Covenant women's soccer team claimed the USA South Tournament title for the first time in program history with a 1-0 victory over Piedmont on Saturday at Duggins Stadium.

Covenant (13-5-2) advances to the program's first NCAA Tournament, and the third national tournament appearance in program history. The Scots will find out their destination and first round opponent on Monday with the NCAA Selection Show at 1 p.m. eastern time.

It is the 13th conference championship in program history, all under head coach Mark Duble.

An incredible season for the Scots turned into a championship one late in the second half. 

In the 86th minute, the Scots pulled together a strong opportunity in the attacking zone and capitalized on the chance. Kailey Burrell collected a pass in the box, worked around a defender and slid a pass to the middle where Riggs gathered and found the back of the net.

It was Riggs' second goal in as many matches and her sixth of the season. Burrell, who was named the tournament MVP, had four assists in the tournament.

That was all Covenant needed to knock off the No. 1 West seeded Lions. The Scots' defense, which has been its strength all season, once again played a key role in a victory.

Lucy Sandhoff, who earned All-Tournament honors, made four saves to notch the shutout. It was Covenant's 12th shutout of the season, setting a program record in a single-season.

Nicole Graubard was also named to the All-Tournament team along with Riggs, Burrell, and Sandhoff. In the tournament, Graubard along with fellow defenders Riley Amell, Hannah Bagby, and Katie Davick combined to allow just one goal in three matches with two shutouts.

Covenant will make its first appearance in a national tournament since 2009 (NCCAA). 

HIGHLIGHT OF THE MATCH

WSOC: GOALLLLLLLL!!!!!

Emma Riggs puts @LadyScotsSoccer up 1-0 in 86th minute!

FOLLOW: https://t.co/bRc6l2UZuT#WeAreTheScots #d3soc pic.twitter.com/K0yTPWTnqf

— Covenant Scots (@CovenantScots) November 6, 2021

UP NEXT

Covenant will find out its first round opponent and location on Monday. The NCAA Selection Show will be streamed (via the NCAA) at 1 p.m.

CONNECT WITH THE SCOTS

Be sure to follow the Scots all season long on athletics.covenant.edu and on social media at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for up-to-date scores, news and other information.