Despite its physical play, the Carson Midget Pop Warner football team couldn't overcome its own mistakes in a 20-12 loss against the Sparks Steelers last week in its season opener.
Carson was hurt by many penalties, five lost fumbles and two interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown. Sparks also returned a kickoff for a touchdown.
Carson had a strong drive on its opening drive, but it was stalled by a fumble. Carson held Sparks to no gain on its first possession and after another Carson fumble, the defense held Sparks after it drove to the Carson 10-yard line.
Sparks scored early in the second quarter on a drive aided by Carson penalties. After Carson closed to within 7-6, its drives continued to be stalled by penalties and another lost fumble.
Sparks returned an interception for a touchdown with two minutes left in the half to take a 13-6 lead. Sparks returned the second half opening kickoff for a touchdown to make it 20-6.
Carson lost another fumble on its first series of the second half. Carson did score on a touchdown pass for the final margin.
Carson's defense played well, with an interception, and held Sparks to five first downs, two by penalties. Carson's offense rolled up more than 265 yards of total offense, with 165 coming on the ground and more than 100 coming through the air.
Carson's home opener is at 6 p.m. Friday against Douglas.
