Boiling down the difference in a basketball game to a 30-second span is tricky, but Maranatha Christian Academy of Brooklyn Park made its case.

Trailing Battle Lake by two points in the second half, the Mustangs turned a three-pointer, two steals and two baskets into a decisive run. They went on to win 74-69 and earn a spot in Saturday’s Class 1A championship game at Target Center.

A three-pointer from Jake Meyen gave the Mustangs a 43-42 lead it would not relinquish. What happened next — two steals leading to fast-breaks and easy buckets — put momentum on their side. A game tied at half went Maranatha’s way from there.

Jeremiah Hanson finished with 30 points and 10 rebounds. Damario Armstrong scored 15 points and added seven assists. Meyen and Cameron Monson combined for 23 points.

“We knew we had to get up tight and play more aggressive defense to throw them off balance and get them out of their sets,” said Armstrong, who notched three steals in the second half.

Armstrong added flair, connecting on two behind-the-back passes in the second half to provide energy.

“As long as it’s executed properly and he makes the play we’re happy,” Maranatha coach Jeffrey Wall said.

The victory sends Maranatha to its third consecutive state tournament showdown with Rushford-Peterson. The teams split semifinal meetings the past two seasons.

“Whoever has the most grit is going to come out with the victory,” Hanson said.

Maranatha Christian Academy broke open a game tied at halftime in a 74-69 victory against Battle Lake in the second Class 1A semifinal game Friday at the Target Center.

The Mustangs, based in Brooklyn Park, advance to play Rushford-Peterson in the championship game at 11 a.m. on Saturday.

Check back later for more on the game.