PREP FOOTBALL / DIVISION III

The City Section 4-A championship game will feature something old and something new. Carson (9-3-1), celebrating its 30th anniversary, will play in its 17th section final. Sylmar (12-0) will make its first appearance in a title game.

Last week, Van Nuys Coach George Engbrecht said he could envision his team being “blown off the field” by Carson. It was a good call. The Wolves were victimized by seven turnovers (four interceptions, three fumbles) and were outgained by Carson, 388 yards to 161, in the Colts’ 55-0 victory.

Sylmar defeated Van Nuys, 42-14, during the regular season.

Carson, reaching a City final for the 13th time in 15 years, has won five titles since 1982, the last one coming in 1990 in Gene Vollnogle’s last year as coach. Carson did not play in last year’s final, losing to Banning in the second round of the playoffs.

Carson quarterback Jamie Sander enjoyed one of his best games against Van Nuys, completing 14 of 18 passes for 184 yards and four touchdowns. Defensively, the Colts were led by cornerback Kalapu Mamea, who had two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Mamea returned one interception 56 yards for a touchdown during a 28-point second quarter.

It was Carson’s 250th victory and improved its record against San Fernando Valley schools to 47-11. The Colts hope to make Sylmar victim No. 48.