MAGEE — The Natchez Dixie Youth 12-year-old All-Stars had to overcome some off-the-field issues in the South State tournament.

But the players responded by brushing it all aside and winning two games Wednesday to nab the South State title.

The Natchez 12s defeated Lawrence County 16-2 in game one, and held on to win 8-7 against Wesson in game two. Head coach Terry Moffett wouldn’t elaborate on the controversy surrounding the South State tournament, but he said he was proud of the way his players stepped up and overcame it.

“It’d be too long of a story to go into, but we just had a meeting (Tuesday) night with the players and parents. I said the only thing we’re worried about is playing baseball,” Moffett said.

“That’s the thing we’re going to focus on, and that’s all we’re going to do. I’m just proud of the kids. That’s the best baseball that I’ve seen this group play since we started All-Stars.”

In game one, Natchez got the win in four innings. Christopher White was the winning pitcher, and he tallied seven strikeouts.

Skeeter Myles, White and Bradley Jones all went 2-for-3 in game one. Will Moffett finished 2-for-2.

In game two, Natchez led 8-5 going into the bottom of the sixth. Although Wesson scored one run, the 12s closed it out, capturing the South State title.

Edwin Bryne got the win in game two. Andrew Beesley was 2-for-3, and Myles finished 3-for-3. Will Moffett hit a home run.

Natchez will play in Hattiesburg Saturday at 4 p.m. in the Mississippi Dixie Youth state tournament.