EFFINGHAM — The Mt. Vernon Lady Rams held off the host Flaming Hearts to win the Effingham 3A Regional championship 43-37.

The Lady Rams held Effingham to 9 first half points, building a 7-point halftime lead. The Hearts had the lead down to three, but Kennady Hayes driving layup gave Mt. Vernon a 27-22 lead after three.

Each time Effingham would get close to striking distance in the fourth, the Lady Rams would have the answer on the way to the win.

Mt. Vernon advances to the Civic Memorial Sectional. The Lady Rams will face the hosts in Bethalto Tuesday night at 7:30 in the second semifinal. Mattoon will take on Triad in the first semi.