The Hearts were on top 16-9 after the opening eight minutes, 25-13 at halftime and 45-24 heading into the fourth period. At intermission, the hosts had made just 1-of-12 three-point attempts.

“Casey just wasn’t in their flow yet,” Farmer said. “I wouldn’t want to play them again in another four or five games. They have some very good players.

“I thought, overall, we played a good game,” Farmer added. “Our offense is getting closer to being fluid. It’s getting better and better. If we play hard on defense and run our offense, we’re going to be okay.”

Farmer was also impressed with the play of Dalton Fox, who has stepped into the starting lineup while Brayden Pals is out with an injury.

“Dalton plays a variety of roles for us,” Farmer noted. “We want him to take care of the ball and play good defense, which is exactly what he’s done. Anything we get from him offensively is icing on the cake.”

The Hearts, who improved to 4-0 on the young season, have a big week ahead. They will play what should be three tough Apollo Conference games and all at home – Tuesday against Teutopolis; Friday against conference favorite Lincoln; and Saturday against Charleston.

Effingham is 2-0 in league play so far.

“This week should tell us a lot,” Farmer admitted.