NATCHEZ — After rainy conditions kept Trinity Episcopal on the ground last week, the Saints reverted back to its comfort zone in a 34-0 win over DeSoto School in the opening round of the MAIS Class A playoffs Friday night.

Sterling Yarbrough led Trinity, passing 8-of-18 for 259 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions.

“This is a great win,” Saints coach Graham Roberts said. “They played very well and definitely played with a sense of passion and attitude. I was really proud of them.”

Jared Simpson opened scoring for the Saints, catching a 12-yard touchdown from Yarbrough midway through the first quarter. Simpson would catch another score — an 84-yard reception — before the end of the period to end the night with two touchdowns.

Jakarius Caston added to Trinity’s lead with 5:34 remaining in the first half on a 94-yard punt return, while Yarbrough connected with Dee Fleming for a 73-yard touchdown pass to give the Saints a 28-0 lead at halftime.

Scoring down field on big plays is nothing new for the Saints, yet Roberts said he was thankful to have better weather conditions this week.

“We have so much speed, and that dry field really makes a big difference,” he said.

Roberts also said while Trinity continued to be successful through the air, he credits the efforts of senior running back Anfernee Thomas for contributions in the win.

Thomas ended the night with 100 yards rushing on 14 carries and scoring on a 2-point conversion run.

“He was really or unsung hero tonight,” Roberts said. “He had a great night running the ball, and he was pounding it hard.”

Trinity’s final score came on a Cedric Daniels 55-yard touchdown reception from Yarbrough early in the fourth quarter.

The Saints held onto its shut out by holding DeSoto on the 2-yard line in the fourth quarter.

Luke Schofield recovered a fumble, and Kris Genous had an interception to lead the Trinity defense.

Moving forward, Roberts said Trinity must stayed on its toes.

The Saints are slated to host BLANK next week in the semifinals.

“They are excited and I’m glad they are,” he said. “I hope they understand they have to get back to work. It’s win or go home.”