A second-half surge was too much for Trinity Episcopal to overcome Friday night.

Tri-County Academy outscored Trinity 36-6 in the final two periods to end the Saints’ season, 63-26 in the semifinals of the MAIS A-AA playoffs.

“We played very hard,” Trinity Episcopal coach Graham Roberts said. “We’re pretty banged up, but (Tri-County) played a great game, too. They were a very well-coached team and execute, and they just did that.”

Roberts said the Saints (5-7) suffered a few significant injuries throughout the game, including to offensive lineman Cole Mosby.

Roberts also said do-it-all athlete Kevontaye Caston injured his should early in the game, but the senior managed to remain in the game.

“It was everything he could do to actually play,” Roberts said.

The University of Southern Mississippi commit completed 11 of 17 passing for 276 yards and three scores.

Caston’s favorite target was Dee Flemming, who hauled in seven catches for 244 yards and three scores.

Sterling Yarbrough completed 5 of 13 passes for 36 yards and a score. Jared Simpson hauled in his touchdown strike, the Saints’ first score of the score.

With its win, TCA (12-1) advances to face Canton Academy in the state finals.

The Rebels lost in the state title last season to Wilkinson County Christian Academy, 8-7.

Despite the loss, Robert said he was pleased with his team’s effort, particularly in the second half of the season.

“I like the fact that we didn’t quit,” the first-year coach said. “I wouldn’t (take) anything for this group of kids. We didn’t start the season how we wanted to, but we finished the way we wanted to.”