Emily Maple and Lily Ghere combined to score 44 points and lead Mattoon to an IHSA girls basketball regional title on Friday night.

The Green Wave took a 15-10 first-quarter lead and still led by a point entering the second half.

Maple knocked down two of MHS’s four 3-pointers in an 18-14 third quarter.

The Green Wave then converted seven of 11 free throws in the fourth quarter to help hold on for the regional title.

“It was a heck of a game,” said first-year head coach Troy Haacke. “We had four great quarters, made big free throws, and big shots. Our half-court defense was great.”

Maple scored 23, Ghere 21 and Ella Conyers added nine.

Mattoon, now 16-16, takes on Highland at Centralia next Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the sectional.