The top-seeded Cougars (13-3) received all of the scoring they needed from scored two first-quarter goals, then their defense went to work and shut out the fifth-seeded Ponies (8-8) in a Class C North semifinal in Dixfield.

Dirigo, which has won eight straight games, will face No. 2 MCI (12-3-1) in the regional final Wednesday at Gardiner.

Grace Averill and Jayce Brophy scored in the first quarter to give the Cougars a 2-0 lead that held up until they added three more goals in the fourth. Kara Woods scored the first fourth-period goal, then Averil and Brophy each tallied their second of the game.

Lana Waite set up both of Brophy’s goals, and Averill, Grace Robbins and Emily Woods each contributed one assist.

Goalie Alivia Ellis stopped all fives shots she faced for the Cougars, whose defense notched its 10th shutout of the season and fifth in its last six games.

Foxcroft goalie Emma Bither finished with eight saves.