By CHRIS MEGGINSON / For the Reporter

ALABASTER – Kingwood Christian took advantage of a first-half miscue by Springwood, but was unable to do find the end zone again, falling 26-6 in its season opener.

“We had plenty of opportunities, we just couldn’t capitalize. We’d get momentum and then we’d fall back. We’re still young.

The Lions scooped a muffed punt in the second quarter at the Wildcats’ 1-yard-line. Three plays later, freshman quarterback Tyler Henderson hit Dalton Douglas, one of six seniors, on a short touchdown pass to make it 14-6. Springwood added another touchdown and field goal before halftime to lead 24-6 at the break.

In the third quarter, Springwood collected a safety on a high snap to the end zone on a Kingwood punt.

“We did well defensively in the second half. We were a lot better than what we’d been,” Ward said. “Our kids didn’t quit. They fought hard. We’ve got to handle our mental mistakes and take care of the small things.”

Offensively, Jontae King, Michael Williams and Hunter Lodge shared time carrying the ball for the Lions.

Kingwood (0-1) will remain home Friday, Sept 2 to host Evangel Christian School at 7 p.m. Evangel, traditionally an 8-man football team, knocked off Patrician Academy for its first 11-man football win in program history Friday night.