RUGBY JERSEY – 61st National University Rugby Championship Final

 (Written by Azul: January 28, 2025)

On January 13, 2025, the final match of the 61st National University Rugby Championship was held at the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium in Minato-ku, Tokyo. The semifinals were played at the National Stadium, which has a capacity of over 60,000, but the final was played at the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, which has a capacity of about 23,000, and many rugby fans asked why. Since the final was held at a stadium with a small capacity, tickets were sold out five days in advance.

I bought a cheap unreserved ticket and entered the venue as soon as the doors opened to secure a good seat.

The photo above was taken around 11:40 when the doors opened.

However, just before the game started, the seats were full, as you can see.

Before the game started, both schools sang their school anthems, and the officials of both schools stood up and sang together.

The photo above is an image of Teikyo University fans.

Next, here is an image of Waseda University fans.

Teikyo University is currently winning 3 consecutive university championships, but this season, Waseda University was expected to win the Japan championship for the first time in 5 years, so many Waseda University fans gathered at the venue.

Here is the latest information on the two schools that will be competing on this day.

First, the latest information on Teikyo University, the defending champion.

Teikyo University lost to Waseda University by the score of 48-17 in the official match of the Kanto University Rugby Rivalry Group on November 3. Teikyo University had not lost to any other university in the 3 seasons prior to last season, so this long-overdue defeat seemed to have come as a great shock not only to the players, but also to those involved at Teikyo University. Since then, Teikyo University has been studying hard, hoping to be humiliated in the University Championships, and the factors that led to Teikyo University’s defeat in the 11/3 match were,

(1) Overwhelmed in the FW game, especially in the scrum.

(2) Waseda University’s SO HATTORI’s long-range kicking was not able to be dealt with, and the players were worn out during the game.

3) The loss of 5 tries by WTB TANAKA of Waseda University. 5 tries scored by one player in the match on 11/3 was a collapse of Teikyo University’s defense.

How Teikyo University will correct these factors of defeat in the rematch on this day will be the highlight of this match.

The starting lineup for this day’s match was as follows

Teikyo University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Kaisei UMEDA176cm108kg22 
2Yura CHINEN171cm100kg22 
3Tsubasa MORIYAMA180cm109kg20JXV,U18Japan,Japan
4Kaisa DAUNAKAMAKAMA182cm120kg21U-18 Japan
5Takuma MOTOHASHI192cm118kg22JXV,Japan
6Keito AOKI187cm110kg22JXV
7Ikki MORIMOTO169cm81kg22 
8Kanta KURAHASHI181cm103kg22 
9Kumsu LEE174cm80kg22 
10Takaya MOTOHASHI182cm86kg20U-20 Japan,JXV,Japan
11Taiyo HIGUMA176cm89kg21 
12Yoshiki OMACHI173cm84kg20U-18,U-20 Japan,JJ
13Yamato UEDA180cm84kg19U-18,U-20 Japan,JXV
14Genki IKUTA170cm83kg21U-18,U-20 Japan,JXV
15Shinya KOMURA180cm88kg22 
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

** Player to watch  **

 (The player with the number 6 is Keito AOKI)

Keito AOKI. 187cm, 110kg, 22 years old. He is a graduate of Toin Gakuen High School and was selected for the Japan XV. Captain of Teikyo University this season. He has been a regular member of the top team since he was a freshman at Teikyo University. He has never been a captain before, but this season he was selected as a captain for the first time. As for his achievements as a player, he is impeccable, but as a team leader, he has had a lot of trial and error. As a leader-oriented captain, will he be able to lead his team to the top of the championship with his rugged back in the final game against Waseda University, the only team they have lost to so far?

Next, an update on Waseda University, the undefeated A-seeded school in this season’s University Championship.

Since losing to Kyoto Sangyo University in the quarterfinals of last season’s University Championship, they have remained undefeated, and were the only team to beat the reigning university champions, Teikyo University, in an official match on November 3, 2011. This season, under the leadership of captain Kenji Sato, the team tried to recapture the No. 1 position in Japan for the first time in 5 years. This season, the team has not only a strong BK attack, but also a powerful FW, and they will challenge this day’s final with a solid team structure. Will they be able to go undefeated in the final match of the day?

The starting lineup for this day’s match wsa as follows

Waseda University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Airou SUGIMOTO176cm107kg21U19 Japan
2Kenji SATO177cm107kg21Japan XV,Japan
3Shotaro KAMEYAMA176cm116kg22 
4Takeomi NISHIURA184cm94kg22 
5Bunsuke KURITA184cm105kg20U20Japan
6Osuke SHIRO185cm99kg18U18 Japan
7Yusei TANAKA166cm87kg21 
8Fuuta SUZUKI183m99kg23 
9Sena HOSOYA162m64kg21 
10Ryota HATTORI178cm80kg18U18 Japan
11Haruto IKEMOTO183cm90kg20 
12Kengo NONAKA180cm93kg21U20,U21Japan,Junior Japan
13Shuhou FUKUSHIMA183cm95kg21U18 Japan
14Kenzou TANAKA172cm76kg19 
15Yoshitaka YAZAKI180cm86kg20U18,U20 Japan,JapanXV,Japan
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

** Player to watch **

(The player in the black T-shirt on the left is SATO.)

177cm, 107kg, 22 years old. Position = Hooker. He is a graduate of Toin Gakuen High School. He and AOKI, captain of Teikyo University, were teammates in high school, and both experienced Japan’s top high school team when they were in their second and third years of high school. However, after entering Waseda University, he became a regular player in his freshman year, but has yet to win the University Japan championship. Unlike AOKI, who appears quiet on the outside, SATO has a strong charisma that makes him a natural born leader. The fighting spirit he displays during games inspires the team. Will Team SATO be able to grab the title of No. 1 university in Japan?

Let’s start the first half.

In the first scrum after the kickoff, Teikyo University pushed Waseda to take the lead.

5 minutes into the first half:

Waseda University penetrated deep into the enemy territory and almost created an opportunity, but Teikyo University’s BK defenders were calm and composed in this match. Teikyo University caught up with the ball kicked deep into their own territory and immediately tried to counter attack from there. Teikyo University deployed the ball to the left side, and FL AOKI bounced off the opposing defense and quickly approached the enemy’s in-goal. Waseda University’s defenders caught up with them in front of the in-goal, but Teikyo University’s prop MORIYAMA followed up and scored a try right in the middle of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and Teikyo University scored the first points of the match. The score was 0-7.

12th minutes into the first half:

Waseda University made some minor mistakes due to their inferiority in the scrum and the upset caused by allowing the first score. They failed to get the ball out of their own lineout and gave it to their opponents, allowing Teikyo University to close in on their in-goal. Teikyo University’s flanks began to charge forward, and FL AOKI scored a try right under the goalposts.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 0-14.

15 minutes into the first half:

Waseda University kicked off from the restart after the try, and attacked the enemy line. After Teikyo University was fouled for offside, Waseda University opted for a penalty kick and had a lineout opportunity on their own ball on the left side in front of the enemy in-goal.

Waseda University secured their own ball, and after a rightward move, FB YAZAKI received the ball, broke the line, and scored a try right under the enemy goal posts.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 7-14.

24 minutes into the first half:

Waseda University recovered from the upset of scoring the first points and became more consistent in set plays other than scrums.

Waseda University won a series of dense battles and launched a series of attacks, with No.8 SUZUKI scoring a try in the left corner of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, and the score was 12-14.

The first half ended with Teikyo University holding a two-point lead. Teikyo University overcame the weaknesses seen in the previous defeat and came into this match

The first half ended with Teikyo University holding a 2-points lead. Teikyo University came into this match having overcome the weaknesses seen in their previous defeat. Teikyo University won the scrum battle, dealt with the long kick by SO HATTORI of Waseda University, and when the ball was kicked in, the back-3 players responded calmly and did not allow WTB TANAKA to get a chance to get the ball rolling. Waseda University, as the undefeated No. 1 seeded school, also evened up their game, and it was not a surprise to see either team win.

Let’s get the second half underway.

2 minutes into the second half:

Both teams were looking to see what their opponents were up to, and near the halfway mark, the teams traded positions via contested kicks.

Teikyo University committed an infringement just inside their own half, and Waseda University opted to go for the PG. Waseda’s CTB NONAKA scored to give Waseda the lead for the first time in the match, 15-14.

5 minutes into the second half:

Waseda University kicked the ball into their own territory, and SO HATTORI attempted a counter attack, which was caught by the Teikyo University defense.

From there, Teikyo University connected with a series of attacks and finally prop MORIYAMA dived into the enemy’s in-goal for the try.

However, this was ruled a no try as a result of video judgment.

After this, the game started with a penalty kick by Teikyo University. Immediately after, Teikyo’s FWs surged forward from sign play, and lock MOTOHASHI scored a try right under the enemy’s goalposts.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 15-21 in favor of Teikyo University.

Waseda University then had several good scoring chances to close in on the enemy in-goal, but Teikyo University was able to overcome them.

27 minutes into the second half:

Teikyo University took control of the scrum and used it as a starting point to attack deep into Waseda University’s territory. Waseda University defended well, but in the end, Teikyo’s lock, Daunakamakama, scored a try in the middle of the enemy’s in-goal on the right.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 15-28 in favor of Teikyo University.

With just over 15 minutes remaining, Teikyo University was one step closer to victory. Can Waseda University come back from this deficit?

37 minutes into the second half:

Waseda University tried their best to connect the ball in a final counterattack, but were penalized for a series of knock-on penalties that dropped the ball forward. With this foul, the game would restart from the scrum, and since Teikyo University had complete control of the scrum, Waseda University was on the defensive. Teikyo University’s WTB HIGUMA kicked the rolling ball, picked up the ball himself, and scored a try right in the middle of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 15-33.

The score remained at 15-33 until the end of the game. Waseda University was eventually held to one PG in the second half. Teikyo University successfully avenged their loss against Waseda in the November rivalry game in the final of the University Championship, the last decisive match of the tournament.

With this victory, Teikyo University has now won the University Championship for four consecutive years. Unlike the previous seasons, Teikyo University added a new page to the history of the Teikyo University Rugby Club as they bounced back from a loss to Waseda University.

Waseda University, who also lost, fought evenly until the middle of the second half, and came close to winning the University Championship for the first time in 5 years. The match was a hopeful one for the next season. The packed house of fans cheered them on. We wish both teams good luck next season, and we also wish the graduates good luck in their future careers.

Nice game.

**********************

Stop the war.

Peace to Ukraine

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RUGBY JERSEY – 61st National University Rugby Championship Semifinals

 (Written by Azul: January 22, 2025)

On January 2, 2025, 2semifinal matches of the 61st National University Rugby Championship were held at the National Stadium in Shibuya, Tokyo. The four schools that remained through to that day were as follows

(1) Teikyo University (last season’s champion, 2nd in the 2024 Kanto Rivalry Rugby group)

(2) Meiji University (last season’s runner-up, 3rd in the 2024 Kanto Rivalry Rugby Group)

(3) Waseda University (last season’s top 8, 1st in the 2024 Kanto Intercollegiate Rugby Group)

(4) Kyoto Sangyo University (last season’s top 4, 2nd in the 2024 Kansai University Rugby League)

2 semifinal matches were played on the day.

The first match was Teikyo University vs. Meiji University (12:25 kick-off)

The second match was Waseda University vs. Kyoto Sangyo University (14:45 kick-off)

Let us first introduce the 2 schools that played in the first match.

* Teikyo University’s record in the University Championship this season:

Seeded in the 3rd round (no games)

Quarterfinal: Defeated Keio University 73-24.

Meiji University’s record in the University Championship this season:

3rd round: Defeated Tokai University (3rd in league group), 50-17.

Quarterfinal: Defeated Tenri University (No.1 in Kansai University Rugby League) by 24-21.

(Note: Meiji University played against Teikyo University on 11/17 and lost 48-28)

Game 1: Meiji University vs Teikyo University

The first semifinal match has the same combination as last year’s final, but the major difference from previous years was that Teikyo University, which was undefeated until last season and had won three consecutive championships, played with Waseda University in the league match on 11/3 this season and lost by a 17-48 margin. During their 3 consecutive university championships, they have dominated other universities as the undefeated absolute champions, but they were coming into this year’s university championships as challengers.

Here is an update on the two schools that played each other in the first match.

First, let’s talk about the Meiji University Rugby Club.

Meiji University, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last season, is the No. 1 university in terms of the depth of its players. Of the current 20-year-old Japanese high school players who are considered to be the golden generation of rugby players, 6 players have joined Meiji University, which is outstanding in comparison to other universities. If they develop well, the future of the Meiji University Rugby Club is extremely promising. On the other hand, if they do not perform well, it will be said that Meiji University does not have the ability to develop.

The starting lineup for the day was as follows.

Meiji University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Sosuke HIYAMA176cm108kg20U18 Japan
2Hampei NISHINO176cm104kg21U18,U20 Japan,JJ
3Kodai KURASHIMA174cm108kg22U18 Japan
4Kantaro TAJIMA197cm100kg21U20 Japan,JJ
5Daichi SATO185cm103kg21 
6Taison MOGAMI185cm105kg22U18,U20 Japan,JJ
7Taisei FUKUDA173cm95kg22 
8Taishiro KIDO185m104kg22 
9Ryusei SHIBATA174m81kg21 
10Ryunosuke ITO172cm79kg20U18,U20 Japan
11Kohaku EBISAWA173cm80kg20JXV,U20 Japan,Japan
12Shota TAIRA178cm94kg21U18,U20 Japan,JJ
13Yuta AKIHAMA174cm86kg22JXV
14Eito SHIRAI178cm85kg19U18,U20 Japan
15Jingo TAKENOSHITA180cm86kg20U18,U20 Japan,JXV
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

The majority of Meiji University’s starters have been selected for the Japan national team for their age group. From the perspective of other schools, Meiji University can be said to be a star-studded group of players.

** Player to watch **

Ryunosuke ITO. 172 cm, 79 kg, 20 years old. He is a graduate of Toin Gakuen High School. He was a key player in Japan’s high school team that toured Ireland and played a key role in the victory over U19 Ireland, and his vision and sharp running play as a SO are a crowd-pleaser. Many rugby fans hope that he will continue to develop well and be selected for the national team.

Next, an update on Teikyo University, the Defending Champion.

Last season, they won the National University Rugby Championship for the third consecutive year, and this season they are the absolute champions, aiming for another consecutive championship. This season, however, the team lost to Waseda University in the November tournament, and they have come this far in their quest to make up for it. Rugby fans can now finally see Teikyo University in action. Expectations are high for the serious Teikyo University to show us what kind of rugby they can play.

The starters for the day were as follows.

Teikyo University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Hanjiro HIRAI177cm95kg22 
2Ren TOMA176cm92kg22 
3Tsubasa MORIYAMA180cm109kg20JXV,U18Japan,Japan
4Kaisa DAUNAKAMAKAMA182cm120kg21U-18 Japan
5Takuma MOTOHASHI192cm118kg22JXV,Japan
6Keito AOKI187cm110kg22JXV
7Ikki MORIMOTO169cm81kg22 
8Kanta KURAHASHI181cm103kg22 
9Kumsu LEE174cm80kg22 
10Takaya MOTOHASHI182cm86kg20U-20 Japan,JXV,Japan
11Taiyo HIGUMA176cm89kg21 
12Yoshiki OMACHI173cm84kg20U-18,U-20 Japan,JJ
13Yamato UEDA180cm84kg19U-18,U-20 Japan,JXV
14Genki IKUTA170cm83kg21U-18,U-20 Japan,JXV
15Shinya KOMURA180cm88kg22 
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

** Player to watch **

(The number 4 player in the red jersey is DAUNAKAMAKAMA)

Kaisa DAUNAKAMA. 182 cm, 120 kg, 21 years old. Position = lock, FL. Place of birth = FIJI. U18 Japan national team. While many international rugby players are more attack-oriented, DAUNAKAMAKAMA is a player with a high awareness of his defensive abilities. Even when the opposing team deployed him on the outside and threatened to break the line, he showed on many occasions that he was able to detect the hole and make a hard tackle. Also, as a FW, he is of standard height, but his instantaneous dash is strong and makes an impact when he makes contact. He is an indispensable player for Teikyo University to win back-to-back championships.

Let’s start the first half.

7 minutes into the first half:

In the early stages of the match, both sides exchanged contested kicks, and the contest became one of high ball and densely-packed battles for re-gaining the ball. Teikyo University won the battle for the loose ball, and with individual breakthroughs by each player, the FW and BK worked together to connect the ball to the enemy in-goal.

Teikyo University scored the first points of the game with a successful conversion goal, making the score 7-0.

16 minutes into the first half:

Both schools pride themselves on the ability of their FWs to break through, but Teikyo University’s defense deep in their own territory was solid. Meiji University’s powerful FWs, who had won the quarterfinal against Kansai champion Tenri University, were unable to make a frontal breakthrough and gain ground against Teikyo University.

Meiji University, unable to make a frontal breakthrough, tried to advance from both sides of the field, but Teikyo University’s BK was also unable to make a decisive breakthrough. Both teams therefore tried to punt the ball back deep into the enemy territory. In the kicking battle here, it was Teikyo University who had the advantage. Teikyo University’s FB Komura lifted the punt, and Teikyo University’s WTB IKUTA regained the ball, and ran all the way to the enemy’s in-goal, where Meiji University’s SO ITOH tackled him, but IKUTA dragged it away and scored a try in the left corner of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 0-14.

19 minutes into the first half:

Meiji University kicked off from the restart and kicked deep into the enemy territory. Teikyo University FB Komura tried to escape with a run play, but Meiji University defenders caught him and it became a tight battle. The ball went to WTB EBISAWA who was in the left corner,

He scored a try in the left corner of the enemy’s in-goal.

After the try, the conversion goal failed, and the score was 5-14.

The score was 5-14:

32 minutes into the first half:

In this period, Meiji University won a scrum and drew a second collapsing infringement from Teikyo University. Meiji University then launched a series of attacks from their own lineout deep in enemy territory. In this attack, Meiji University did not just rush vertically, but also developed a combined FW and BK attack. Finally, SO Itoh’s long pass was passed to WTB Shirai, and finally prop HIYAMA received the ball and scored a try in the right corner of the enemy in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 12-14.

The first half ended with the score at 12-14. Meiji University had lost their last match against Teikyo University in November 2024, but the teams were evenly matched in the first half of the match.

Which team will advance to the finals of the University Championship?

4 minutes into the second half:

At the start of the second half, Meiji University won the scrum and drew a collapsing foul from Teikyo University. Meiji University was beginning to dominate the flow of the game. However, Meiji University kicked the ball deep into enemy territory, and Teikyo University’s FB Komura caught the ball and counter attacked from there, where the two teams engaged in a tight battle, but Teikyo University regained the ball and quickly expanded. Teikyo University’s CTB UEDA received the ball and scored a try directly to the left of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, and the score was 12-19.

8minutes into the second half:

Meiji University replaced EBISAWA with YASUDA at WTB in an attempt to regroup on the defensive side of the field. Meiji University then had a lineout on their own ball, and a mishandling of the ball resulted in a tight battle, with Teikyo University winning the ball back. Teikyo University then launched a series of attacks, closing in on the enemy’s in-goal, forming a tight group, where lock DAUNAKAMA picked up the ball and scored a try on the right side of the enemy goal post.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 12-26.

Within 10 minutes of the start of the second half, the teams scored one try after another, and Teikyo University was finally gaining momentum.

17 minutes into the second half:

Meiji University fought hard at set pieces to turn the tide of the game in Teikyo University’s favor. They were not to be outdone in the scrums, and won the ball in the lineout as well, trying to advance into the enemy territory.

However, as in the first half, Teikyo University’s defense was strong, making it difficult for Meiji University to stay in the enemy territory. Teikyo University won the ball back, and the FW and BK worked in unison to keep moving forward and close in on the enemy’s in-goal. Meiji University could no longer stop Teikyo University’s advance. Teikyo University’s lock Motohashi then drove close to the enemy’s in-goal, dragging four Meiji University defenders behind him, and scored a try in the middle left of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, but the score was 12-31, giving Teikyo University a big lead.

32 minutes into the second half:

With less than 10 minutes left in the second half, Teikyo University skillfully took their time and put the pressure on Meiji University. While Meiji University wanted to close the gap quickly, Teikyo University took their time and consumed time in the set piece scrums. In the process, Teikyo University drew an offside infringement from Meiji University when they were deep in enemy territory. The position of the foul by Meiji University was directly in front of the goal post. Here, Teikyo University opted for the PG. Teikyo University’s CTB OMACHI scored to make the score 12-34.

35 minutes into the second half:

Meiji University’s offensive efforts were all but crushed by Teikyo University, except for SO ITOH’s run play, which was unstoppable even by Teikyo University. 172 cm, 77 kg, ITOH is not a physically gifted player, but he showed great physical sharpness that belies his disadvantage.

When ITOH had the ball in his hands, even the experienced Teikyo University defense could not stop him in a one-on-one match. ITOH dug deep through the enemy defense and went close to the in-goal, only to be caught by the Teikyo University defense. However, Meiji University’s No.8 KIDO followed up and scored a try in the middle of the enemy in-goal on the left.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 19-34.

43 minutes into the second half:

The whistle blew for full time, and it was the last play of the game. Meiji University had lost the game, but the players showed their final determination and kept going forward to score a try and connect the ball. Meiji University’s tall 195cm lock TAZIMA finally scored a try at the right side of the goal post.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 26-34. The game ended here. Teikyo University beat Meiji University to advance to the final of the University Championship.

The final score was 26-34. Meiji University put up a strong fight in the final minutes of the match to hold off Teikyo University, but in the end, Teikyo University showed its superiority in the end and came away with a convincing victory.

Meiji University suffered back-to-back losses against Teikyo University in the University Championship, but they will not forget their disappointment this season, and we hope that the remaining regular members will show us another great game next season.

Game 2: Waseda University vs Kyoto Sangyo University

Now, let us introduce the two teams that played in the second match.

First, an update on the Waseda University Rugby Team, the top seed in this year’s tournament.

Last season, the team played with Kyoto Sangyo University in the quarterfinals, where they were completely beaten by a score of 65-28. This was the first time in almost a year that they have played each other in an official match. This season, Waseda University’s captain, hooker SATOH, in particular, has thoroughly trained his FW team to the point where they were able to win outright against the university champions, Teikyo University, at set pieces. Waseda University was still undefeated this season, and captain Sato has stated his goal for this season to become the best university in Japan. With only 2 more wins to go until their goal of becoming the number 1 university in Japan, it will be interesting to see what Waseda University will show in this day’s match.

This day’s starting lineup was as follows.

Waseda University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Airou SUGIMOTO176cm107kg21U19 Japan
2Kenji SATO177cm107kg21Japan XV,Japan
3Shotaro KAMEYAMA176cm116kg22 
4Takeomi NISHIURA184cm94kg22 
5Bunsuke KURITA184cm105kg20U20Japan
6Osuke SHIRO185cm99kg18U18 Japan
7Yusei TANAKA166cm87kg21 
8Fuuta SUZUKI183m99kg23 
9Sena HOSOYA162m64kg21 
10Ryota HATTORI178cm80kg18U18 Japan
11Haruto IKEMOTO183cm90kg20 
12Kengo NONAKA180cm93kg21U20,U21Japan,Junior Japan
13Shuhou FUKUSHIMA183cm95kg21U18 Japan
14Kenzou TANAKA172cm76kg19 
15Yoshitaka YAZAKI180cm86kg20U18,U20 Japan,JapanXV,Japan
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

** Player to watch **

Kenzou TANAKA. 172 cm, 76 kg, 19 years old. A graduate of Toin Gakuen High School, he is a gem of a player who has secured a regular place in the BK lineup at Waseda University, a school with a strong BK lineup, since his freshman year. His characteristic feature is his run play, in which he starts from an extremely low position and goes into top speed. He is a relatively small player, so when he rushes forward from that low stance, it is difficult to tackle him from the front. He also has an excellent sense of scoring, and he is a natural scorer who shows up where the chances are likely to be. He was selected as the Man of the Match for the match against Teikyo University in last November, and has become instantly recognized by rugby fans across the country. We can’t wait to see how far he will go in the future.

Next, I would like to introduce Kyoto Sangyo University, the only Kansai team to survive in the University Championship.

In the past, Kyoto Sangyo University’s tradition was to take players from no-name schools, train them hard, challenge them to the University Championship, and play power rugby with an honest focus on the scrum. However, Kyoto Sangyo University has now become a regular participant in the University Championship, and has gradually begun to attract Japan’s high school national team players, and is on its way to becoming a powerhouse school. In the Kansai League this season, the team did not show the absolute strength that it had until last year, and there was a period at the end of the season when it lost steam, but since entering the University Championship, the team’s unity has grown, and it has advanced to the semifinals again this season. This season, the team hopes to advance to the finals for the first time, and even win the title of University Champions.

This day’s starting lineup was as follows.

Kyoto Sangyo University 
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Ryushin SONE175cm103kg22 
2Kaen HIRANO174cm98kg22 
3Shinta KAWAGUCHI186cm120kg22 
4Chuka ISHIBASHI190cm93kg20U18,U20 Japan,JXV
5Soromone L.FUNAKI186cm114kg22 
6Ken HIYOSHI180cm100kg22 
7Ryu HIRANO180cm100kg21 
8Sione POLUTELE184cm110kg21U18 Japan
9Asahi DOEI170cm73kg21U20 Japan, JJ,JXV
10Keita OZAKI165cm80kg21 
11Hiroto NISHI170cm75kg22 
12Ryosei FUJIMOTO172cm86kg22 
13Eroni NABULAGI185cm100kg20U18 Japan
14Shuichi KOBAYASHI176cm82kg21 
15Hayata TSUJINO178cm85kg21 
JJ=Junior Japan
JXV=Japan XV

** Player to watch **

Asahi DOEI is 170 cm, 73 kg, 21 years old. He is a graduate of Kosen Catholic High School, and is a member of U20Japan, Junior Japan, and JapanXV. He was selected for Japan’s national team in his age group, and was noticed by Japan’s national team HC Eddie JONES as soon as he took over, and was called up to the national team training camp. He is known for his long and accurate passing ability, as well as his kicking ability. As a game-maker for Kyoto Sangyo University, he can take control of the game if he can take advantage of the strong FW and connect with the decisive BK.

Due to the similar design of the first jersey, both teams wore their second jerseys for the match.

Waseda University wore white with a rouge-colored collar, while Kyoto Sangyo University wore a dark blue jersey.

Now, let’s start the first half.

7 minutes into the first half:

The game started out with both sides trying to find out what each other’s game was. Kyoto Sangyo University was looking to increase the number of scrums, one of their strengths, while Waseda University was looking for a series of attacks from the densely packed field. Waseda University was the first to take the lead. Kyoto Sangyo University committed an infringement in a scrum in the Waseda camp, and Waseda University opted for a penalty kick. Waseda’s SO HATTORI kicked his weapon, a long-range kick, close to the enemy’s in-goal, and from this position, Waseda gained possession of the ball in the lineout. At the lineout, Waseda University secured the ball, and using sign play, passed the ball from hooker SATOH to WTB IKEMOTO, who came running in, and quickly approached the in-goal. Here, they formed a tight group, and lock KURITA got the ball and scored a try in the left center of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, but Waseda University scored first. The score was 5-0.

15 minutes into the first half:

Kyoto Sangyo University had a chance to scrum in their best set play, but on the contrary, Waseda University pushed them into a scrum, and they were fouled. Kyoto Sangyo University not only failed to take advantage of their strength, but on the contrary, Waseda University’s set plays looked stronger this season. Waseda University then opted for a penalty kick here, which gave them the chance to have their own lineout in front of the enemy in-goal. Waseda secured the ball in the lineout and tried to advance with a maul, which was stopped by Kyoto Sangyo University. Waseda University then launched a series of attacks, culminating in CTB FUKUSIMA scoring a try in the left center of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 12-0.

24 minutes into the first half:

Again, Waseda University’s SO HATTORI’s long-range kick was effective in this match. Kyoto Sangyo University had made a good run deep into enemy territory, but were outmuscled by Waseda University in a tight battle, and when the ball was passed to SO HATTORI, he quickly kicked it back deep into his own territory. This only increased the fatigue of the Kyoto Sangyo University players.

Waseda University, who had the upper hand in the battle for possession, moved into the enemy territory and, with little fatigue, expanded wide left and right to close in on the enemy in-goal, with hooker SATOH scoring the final try in the middle right of the in-goal.

Waseda University scored a successful conversion goal after the try to make the score 19-0.

32 minutes into the first half:

Finally, Kyoto Sangyo University’s continuous attack started to work in the enemy territory. Pass after pass, Kyoto Sangyo University’s strong runners broke through the gain line and approached the enemy’s in-goal.

Kyoto Sangyo University came very close to scoring a try, but a tackle by the Waseda University defense caused the ball to be dropped. Waseda University then took the ball into their own in-goal, and SO HATTORI kicked it back deep into enemy territory with a long-range kick of nearly 60 meters.

Waseda University then launched a series of attacks, culminating in Waseda’s WTB Tanaka receiving the ball in the right corner, breaking through the opposing defense, and scoring a try right in the middle of the enemy’s in-goal.

Waseda University also succeeded in scoring the conversion goal after the try, making the score 26-0 and putting Kyoto Sangyo University ahead.

In the end, the first half ended with this score. Kyoto Sangyo University attacked deep into the enemy territory several times, but were unable to break through Waseda University’s skillful defense in front of the in-goal, resulting in no points. In addition, Waseda University’s SO HATTORI’s long kick of almost 60 meters from deep repeatedly made them exhausted by being forced to return to their own line after attacking in front of the in-goal, which resulted in the difference in score.

Can Kyoto Sangyo University come up with some kind of breakthrough to close the gap in the second half?

Let’s get the second half underway.

11 minutes into the second half:

Kyoto Sangyo University, hoping to somehow score the first goal of the second half, connected the ball in good form early in the second half, and came within inches of the enemy’s in-goal. However, once again they were thwarted by the Waseda University defense in front of their own goal and failed to score.

From in front of their own in-goal, FB YAZAKI kicked the ball back to the outside just beyond the enemy 22m line, and the 50-22 rule was applied, resulting in a own ball lineout deep in the enemy territory.

Waseda University secured the ball from the right side near the enemy 22m line, and expanded to the right, and FB YAZAKI to WTB IKEMOTO, and IKEMOTO scored a try in the middle left of the enemy in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, and the score was 31-0.

25 minutes into the second half:

As Kyoto Sangyo University entered the enemy territory, a penalty kick opportunity resulted from a foul by Waseda University, and they had a chance to take the ball out of their own line on the right side near the enemy 22-meter line.

Kyoto Sangyo University secured the ball at this point and attempted to move forward in a maul. After the maul collapsed, Kyoto Sangyo University continued to attack on the flanks.

Kyoto Sangyo University foolishly repeated the side attack nearly 10 times and finally scored a try at the right side of the goal post in the enemy’s in-goal. It was Kyoto Sangyo University’s first try of the match.

It was FL HIYOSHI who scored the try. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 31-7.

33 minutes into the second half:

Toward the end of the match, both teams made a series of player changes. Due to this, Kyoto Sangyo University was the stronger team in the scrums. Waseda’s scrum collapsing allowed Kyoto Sangyo University to advance into the enemy’s in-goal area. Here, Kyoto Sangyo University secured the ball in a lineout on their own ball, and then formed a maul to advance. The maul collapsed and a dense battle ensued, with Kyoto Sangyo University’s prop NYUI scoring a try in the middle right of the in-goal from a side attack by the FWs.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 31-14.

39 minutes into the second half:

Kyoto Sangyo University opted for a penalty kick after a foul by Waseda University, and had a lineout opportunity on their own ball deep in the enemy territory on the right side. After securing the ball, they formed a maul, and BK joined the maul, with 14 players pushing the maul.

After the maul collapsed, a tight battle ensued, and Kyoto Sangyo University’s SH DOEI scored a try in the right corner of the in-goal.

After the try, the conversion goal failed, and the score was 31-19.

With the score at 31-19, the game came to an end, and Waseda University was humiliated by Kyoto Sangyo University, who had suffered a crushing defeat in the quarterfinals of the University Championship last season.

Waseda University will now face Teikyo University on January 13 in the final of the University Championship to decide the winner. Will Teikyo University’s winning streak continue, or will Waseda University be crowned University Champion for the first time in five years? We can hardly wait for the decisive match.

**********************

Stop the war.

Peace to Ukraine

*************************

RUGBY JERSEY – Japan Rugby League One 2024-2025 season Section 2: RICOH Black Rams vs Suntory Sungoliath

 (Written by Azul: January 8, 2025)

On December 28, 2024, the Japan Rugby League One 2024-2025 season entered its second week. This time, I went to Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium in Minato-ku, Tokyo, to watch the match between Ricoh Black Rams vs. Suntory Sungoliath. The conditions were fine and the temperature was 7.8 degrees Celsius. The conditions on the day of the game

The conditions on the day of the game were clear and sunny, with a temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius, but there was not as much wind as I expected and I was seated in the backstage in the sun, so I did not feel the cold so much.

The attendance that day was 8,169, which is said to be a new record for the Black Rams.

Personally, I think the Black Rams fan club pricing contributed to this.

The Black Rams Fan Club offers an annual membership fee of 3,300 yen and a 1,000 yen discount on the price of tickets (non-reserved seats) per game for the host game. In my case, I have never been a member of a fan club for a particular team because I like to watch many teams play, but since T.J. Perenara, formerly of the All Blacks, joined the Black Rams this season, I thought I would watch more Black Rams games, I joined the fan club.

Let me introduce you to the two teams that would be playing on this day.

First, let me introduce the Visitor Team, Suntory Sungoliath.

Suntory Sungoliath is a strong team that has always been one of the favorites for the championship since the Top League days. In the previous round, they lost 12-33 against last season’s runner-up, Panasonic Wild Knights. The team’s morale is expected to be high as they look to get their first win of the season in this match. The team’s catchphrase this season is “Aggressive Attacking Rugby,” and they are probably the best in League One in terms of player depth. However, the dilemma is that the team is so well-rounded that it is difficult for the players who were stars in their college days to play in the games.

The starting lineup for this day was as follows.

Suntory Sungoliath
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Yukio MORIKAWA180cm113kg30Japan 2cap
2Kosuke Horikoshi175cm100kg28Japan 7cap
3Kan NAKANO177cm108kg27 
4Sam JEFFRIES198cm114kg34 
5Harry HOCKINGS206cm118kg25 
6Kanji Shimokawa188cm105kg25Japan 10caps
7Kai YAMAMOTO177cm100kg24Japan 1cap
8Sean McMAHON186m99kg30Australia 26 caps
9Kenta FUKUDA173cm80kg28Japan 1cap
10Mikiya Takamoto171cm80kg23 
11Taiga OZAKI184cm93kg26 
12Shogo NAKANO186cm98kg27Japan 7caps
13Isaiah PINIVAI189cm100kg24 
14Seiya Ozaki175cm85kg29Japan 4caps
15Ryosuke KAWASE183cm88kg25 

** Player to watch **

Ryosuke KAWASE.183cm, 88kg, 25 years old. Position = FB, WTB. He is a graduate of Waseda University, and has been a promising prospect since his college days. However, he was not able to play regularly in a team with a large number of players. Currently, KAWASE has had the opportunity to be a starter from the start of the season, as Sungoliath’s teammate and Japan’s WTB, MATSUSHIMA, has been unable to play due to injury. He has the physique, speed, and determination to compete on the international stage, so we hope he can produce solid results this season and be selected for the Japan national team. I am sure Japanese rugby fans are eagerly awaiting his selection.

Next, I would like to introduce today’s Home Team, RICOH Black Rams.

Last season, the Black Rams finished 10th in the final standings, and won the division 2 match to remain in Division 1. However, this season, the Black Rams changed their HC, replaced their players, and reinforced their strong players. In addition, the team’s promotion has also changed, with a more aggressive stance toward promotion, more exciting performances, and a more positive attitude toward attracting spectators to games. Finally, the Black Rams have become more like a professional team.

In the first match of the season, the team faced Mie HONDA Heat, who finished 11th last season, and lost 21-23. In this day’s match, they are looking for their first win of the season as a team.

This day’s starting lineup was as follows.

Black Rams
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Kazuma NISHI180cm108kg28 
2Hinata TAKEI171cm97kg26 
3Paddy RYAN190cm114kg36Australia 3 caps
4Michael Stolberg202cm116kg32 
5Josh GOODHUE199cm113kg29 
6Amato Fakatava195cm118kg30Japan 10caps
7Brodi McCURRAN193cm108kg30 
8Liam GILL184cm95kg32Australia 15 caps
9TJ PERENARA184cm94kg32New Zealand 81caps
10Ichigo NAKAKUSU174cm84kg24Japan
11Netani Vakayalia181cm90kg26Japan 7th
12Yuki IKEDA187cm100kg29Japan
13Ryohei ISODA178cm90kg28 
14Amanaki LOTOAHEA TAIYO191cm107kg34Japan 8caps
15Isaac LUCAS180cm85kg25 

** Player to watch **

TJ PERENARA. 184 cm, 94 kg, 32 years old. Position = SH, SO. 81 caps for New Zealand.He is the most popular and accomplished player in League One this season.He has signed a 3-year contract with the Black Rams, and his commitment to the Black Rams’ success is evident. PERENARA was instrumental in the Black Rams setting a new attendance record at the game. PERENARA is a world-class passer, kicker, and runner, as well as a true professional who has instilled an inspirational atmosphere in all Black Rams staff members, both in practice and in their daily lives.

Let’s begin the first half.

Sungoliath’s SO TAKAMOTO kicked off the game.

2 minutes into the first half:

From the opening kickoff, Sungoliath got into the enemy territory, reacquired the ball in a tight battle, and launched a series of attacks. In the flow of the game, Black Rams lock GOODHUE committed a Not Role Away foul. Since the position of the foul was in front of the goal post, Sungoliath elected to go for the PG. Sungoliath’s SO TAKAMOTO scored it, and Sungoliath recorded the first goal with the score 0-3.

6 minutes into the first half:

Both teams kicked each other to gain the upper hand, and the Black Rams managed to get into the enemy territory and launched a series of attacks that led to a Sungoliath foul, where the Black Rams opted for a penalty kick and advanced deep into the enemy territory. The Black Rams then took advantage of a lineout on the right side of the field to break wide left and SO NAKAKUSU broke the line to the enemy in-goal, where NAKAKUSU passed to WTB VAKAYALIA, who was running along the left side of the line, VAKAYALIA scored a try in the left corner of the enemy in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 7-3 in favor of the Black Rams.

10 minutes into the first half:

Sungoliath developed from their own tight formation, SO TAKAMOTO kicked, Black Rams lock GOODHUE successfully charged, and GOODHUE caught the ball as it rolled by himself and went straight ahead. Sungoliath’s SO TAKAMOTO caught up with him and tackled him, but he passed to Black Rams’ FL McCURAN, who ran after him and scored a try in the middle left of the enemy in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 14-3.

14 minutes into the first half:

The Black Rams’ FWs were gathering quickly, and Sungoliath was unable to move the ball forward. Sungoliath then kicked deep into enemy territory in an attempt to regain possession. However, Black Rams FB LUCAS tried to counter-attack from deep in their own territory.

LUCAS dodged two Sungoliath day defenders and advanced quickly into enemy territory, where the Sungoliath defense again gave chase, but LUCAS passed to lock STOLBERG, who followed up, and STOLBERG scored a try right in the enemy territory.

The conversion goal after the try was missed, but the score was 19-3.

The Black Rams started the first half well, scoring 3 tries in less than 10 minutes.

20 minutes into the first half:

Sungoliath had a penalty kick deep into enemy territory and had the ball in their own lineout. Sungoliath’s CTB PUNIVAI received the ball, broke the line, and approached the enemy’s in-goal. FB KAWASE scored a try in the middle left of the in-goal of the enemy line.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 19-10.

31 minutes into the first half:

The Black Rams were pinched by a series of unintentional penalties in a tight match, and Black Rams WTB AMANAKI was temporarily sent off for 10 minutes for a bad foul.

In front of the Black Rams’ own in-goal, a tight battle ensued, and the Black Rams did well to push back, but in the end, Sungoliath prop MORIKAWA scored a try right in the middle of the enemy in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 19-17.

42 minutes into the first half:

Near the end of the first half, the Black Rams committed an infringement during a scrum in their own territory, and Sungoliath opted to go for the PG. Sungoliath’s SO Takamoto scored to make the score 19-20.

The first half ended here. In the early stages of the match, Black Rams scored a series of tries and took control of the match. However, Sungoliath scored a series of tries towards the end of the first half to bring the match to an even contest.

It will be interesting to see which team will be the first to take control of the match in the second half.

During the 15-minute halftime, the host team, the Black Rams, provided fan service by giving out autograph balls

The team staff also performed an original dance.

Let the second half begin.

5 minutes into the second half:

The Black Rams controlled the ball continuously as they entered the enemy territory at the second half kickoff. The Black Rams gradually made progress and approached the enemy in-goal, and from near the goal posts, the Black Rams took a left turn and SO NAKAKUSU broke the line and ran into the left middle of the enemy in-goal for a try.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 26-20 and giving the Black Rams a 6 point lead.

9 minutes into the second half:

The Black Rams’ momentum was unstoppable. From the restart kickoff after the try, they won the ball and continued to attack. Sungoliath occasionally won the ball back, but the Black Rams continued their attack, outpacing the hosts with their athleticism and support in the tight pack. The Black Rams again came close to scoring an in-goal, and CTB IKEDA received the ball and scored a try right under the goalposts.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 33-20.

16 minutes into the second half:

Sungoliath was in the middle of the field when the Black Rams committed an infringement, and Sungoliath opted for a penalty kick. Sungoliath had their first scoring opportunity in a long time, but the ball went to the left in front of the enemy in-goal, and SO TAKAMOTO passed the ball to FB KAWASE, who scored his second of the day in the left center of the enemy in-goal.

After the try, the conversion goal failed, and the score was 33-25.

20 minutes into the second half:

Sungoliath resumed the attack from their own territory, and substitute FL IOANE made a powerful run to advance more than 10 meters, and from there, the ball was passed to FB KAWASE who ran as fast as he could from behind. He then swept past 2 Black Rams defenders with his speed and scored his third try of the day in the middle of the enemy in-goal on the right.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 33-32, Sungoliath was finally within one point.

Both teams put on a show in attack, and the time was running out for both teams. From this point on, the game entered a tough phase where a single foul could make the difference between victory and defeat.

Sungoliath took control of the attack towards the end of the match. This was largely due to the work of Sungoliath substitutes SH NAGARE and prop HOSOKI, with NAGARE helping to set the tempo in the attacking sequences and HOSOKI providing the momentum for Sungoliath as an impact player in the scrums. In my opinion, Sungoliath’s HOSOKI is probably the best scrummager in Japan. But he is not selected for the national team because of his frequent injuries and the short time frame in which he is able to show his strength.

(SH Yutaka NAGARE)

(Prop Kotaro HOSOKI)

Toward the end of the match, Sungoliath pushed and won in all of their scrums. Sungoliath’s prop HOSOKI’s outstanding strength in the scrums shined through here, and the Black Rams also wanted to expand and advance into the opposition’s territory, but the scrums were not enough.

The Black Rams were also at a disadvantage when a collapsing scrum in their own territory resulted in an immediate PG for Sungoliath, which meant the loss of the game.

After 80 minutes of game time, Sungoliath went on their 9th consecutive attack in front of the enemy in-goal,

SO TAKAMOTO threw a long pass to FB KAWASE, who placed the ball in the left corner of the enemy’s in-goal. However, just before that, SO NAKAKUSU of the Black Rams appeared to have pushed KAWASE’s foot off the field. The winner was left to the video decision TMO.

Since it was already past the end of the match, the winner was decided by this decision. Could Sungoliath score a try in the end?

The Black Rams players look at the big screen behind the goal.

The result of the decision was a no try.

At the end of the match, the Black Rams were finally the winners.

Sungoliath’s FB KAWASE cowered as he missed the try that would have decided the match.

The crowd applauded and cheered for the players who had fought so hard, much to the delight of the Black Rams players and fans, who had lost 16 straight games against Sungoliath, including a humiliating 0-62 defeat last season.

We would like to thank all the players and fans for a great match at the end of the year 2024.

**********************

Stop the war.

Peace to Ukraine

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RUGBY JERSEY – Japan Rugby League One 2024-2025 season Section 1: Sagamihara Dynaboars vs Urayasu D-Rocks

 (Written by Azul: January 2, 2025)

The Japan Rugby League One 2024-2025 season started on December 21, 2024. I went to watch one of the first matches of the season, Sagamihara Dynaboars vs. Urayasu D-Rocks, which was held on December 22 at Sagamihara GION Stadium.

On the day of the game, the weather was fine, but it was a chilly day with a very northerly wind.

We watched the game from the bleachers behind the goal.

The following 12 teams are participating in this season’s League One Division 1.

** CONFERENCE A ** 1.

  1. Urayasu D-Rocks
  2. KOBELCO Kobe Steelers
  3. Shizuoka Blue Revs
  4. Toshiba Brave Lupas Tokyo
  5. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara Dynaboars
  6. Yokohama CANON Eagles

** CONFERENCE B **

  1. Kubota Spears Funabashi, Tokyo Bay
  2. Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights
  3. Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath
  4. TOYOTA Verblitz .
  5. Mie HONDA Heat
  6. RICOH Black Rams Tokyo

This season, the top 6 teams will advance to the playoffs and compete for the championship in a tournament. The bottom 2 teams will play in a match-up with the Division 2 teams.

This season, many stars from around the world who played in RWC2023 have gathered here in League One, and we are looking forward to seeing how they will play.

Now, let me introduce the two teams that will be competing on this day.

First, let me introduce the Visitor Team, Urayasu D-Rocks.

In their first year in League One, they finished 10th in Division One and lost two games against the Dynaboars, who had been promoted from Division Two, and were relegated to Division 2. It took them two seasons to get back to Division 1. On the day of the match, they faced Dynaboars, a team they had lost to in the elimination round. All the players were eager to play in this match.

The starting lineup for this day’s match was as follows

URAYASU D-ROCKS
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Hidetomo NABESHIMA176cm115kg23 
2Ryuji FUJIMURA174cm102kg26 
3Syuhei Takeuchi183cm115kg27Japan 12cap
4Uwe HELU193cm120kg34Japan 19cap
5Lourence ERASUMUS200cm123kg31 
6Tom PERSONS196cm113kg34 
7Shinya OHSUGI187cm100kg32 
8Tui HENDRIK188cm112kg37Japan 47cap
9Ren IINUMA170cm75kg24Japan
10Otere BLACK185cm86kg29 
11Kai ISHII179cm85kg31 
12Samu KEREVI186cm106kg31Australia 41cap
13Shane GATES183cm95kg32Japan 4cap
14Takuhei YASUDA177cm80kg26Japan 2cap
15Israel FOLAU194cm103kg35Australia 73cap, Tonga 1cap

** Player to watch  **

Ren IINUMA. 170cm, 75kg, 24 years old. He is a graduate of Meiji University. He is a candidate for the Japan national team. Although he is only 24 years old, he has been the captain of the D-Rocks for 2 consecutive years. Last season, he was appointed as the captain of the team, which won the Division 2 championship and defeated the Kintetsu Liners in the replacement game, and is now aiming to make a breakthrough in Division 1. He was also called up to training camp this season as a candidate for the Japan national rugby team. Although he did not play any games for the national team this season, he is expected to be the face of the D-Rocks in the future.

Next, we would like to introduce the home team for this match, the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Sagamihara Dynaboars.

Since being promoted to Division 1 in the 2022-23 season, the Dynaboars have gradually improved their team strength, finishing 10th the year before last and 9th last year. The driving force behind the team’s progress has been the hard work of all members, who, under the guidance of HC Glenn Delaney, have been training with an emphasis on team athleticism. The team’s strength often comes in the second half of games.

Although there are few national team players in the team, lock ULUIVITI was selected for the national team this season, and WTB ARENDSE, who boasts 22 caps for South Africa, joined the team as a newcomer. This season, the team aims to achieve better results than last season and make a breakthrough as a team.

The starting lineup for the day was as follows.

Dynaboars
No.Nameheightweightage 
1Jun MORIMOTO175cm115kg28 
2Seunghyuk LEE179cm103kg25Japan 1caps
3Rento TSUKAYAMA186cm107kg26 
4Walt STEENKAMP203cm121kg29 
5Epineri ULUIVITI196cm122kg28Japan 5caps
6Kyo YOSHIDA188cm108kg29 
7Kohki SATO179cm96kg29 
8Marino MIKAELE-TUU193cm111kg27
9Kohta IWAMURA182cm87kg31 
10James GRAYSON182cm90kg26 
11Satoshi KOIZUMI178cm86kg24 
12Charlie LAWRENCE171cm92kg26 
13Tonishio VAIAFU177cm103kg30 
14Ben PALTRIDGE177cm88kg32 
15Kurt-Lee ARENDSE176cm80kg28South Africa 22caps

** Player to watch **

Kurt-Lee ARENDSE. 176 cm, 80 kg, 28 years old. He has played for South Africa in 7-a-side rugby and represented the country at the Tokyo Olympics. In July 2022, he was selected for the South African 15-man national rugby team, and since then has been a regular member of the national team, contributing to South Africa’s victory at the RWC 2023. Although he is rather small in height and weight compared to Japanese players, his determination as a try-getter is remarkable. His contract with the Dynaboars is for one season only, but we hope that his success will be witnessed by rugby fans in Japan.

Let’s begin the first half.

6 minutes into the first half:

D-Rocks kicks off to start the game.

It was 11 degrees Celsius with a strong northerly wind blowing, and the home team, the Dynaboars, were upwind in the first half. The Dynaboars then opted for the PG, which SO GRAYSON converted to give the Dynaboars a 3-points lead.

8 minutes into the first half:

Immediately after the game resumed, the D-Rocks were in a tight battle in enemy territory, and FL YOSHIDA of the Dynaboars tangled with the ball and drew a foul for Not Release the Ball. The Dynaboars again opted to go for the PG, and SO GREYSON made a great score from 50 meters to make the score 6-0.

13 minutes into the first half:

From the restart kickoff, the D-Rocks got into the enemy territory and deployed left and right, piling up gains and closing in on the opposition’s in-goal. The Dynaboars were fouled for offsides and D-Rocks elected to go for the PG. The point of the infringement was in front of the enemy goalposts, so D-Rocks’ SO BLACK made a steady run to make the score 6-3.

14 minutes into the first half:

From the kickoff of PG’s restart, the Dynaboars were in a tight battle as they entered enemy territory, where D-Rocks committed another infringement. The game was marked by minor infractions by both teams. Here, SO GREYSON of the Dynaboars scored a PG to make the score 9-3.

22 minutes into the first half:

D-Rocks continued the tempo of their attack as they entered the enemy territory, and they came close to the enemy in-goal. SO BLACK released an excellent kick pass, which was caught by CTB KEREVI, and he scored a try in the left corner of the in-goal. However, a video judgment was made at this point, and the try was disallowed for a moment.

The D-Rocks try was disallowed, but just before the play, a foul on the Dynaboars gave them a PG opportunity, which was scored by SO BLACK, making the score 9-6.

25 minutes into the first half:

Dynaboars lock STEENCAMP was fouled for a high tackle and was temporarily sent off for 10 minutes.

32 minutes of the first half:

The Dynaboars were disadvantaged at set pieces as one of their FW players left the field. D-Rocks then pushed the opposing ball scrum, won the ball back, and from there developed a series of attacks, with the FWs repeatedly attacking on the side to the right of the enemy’s in-goal. From there, D-Rocks took a turn to the left, and FB FOLAU passed to WTB ISHII, who scored a try in the left corner of the in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was unsuccessful, but D-Rocks succeeded in turning the score around, making the score 9-11.

The first half ended with the score at 9-11, with D-Rocks leading by only 2 points, and with only one PG needed to turn the tide, it was hard to predict who would win the game. However, the wind was strong on this day, so D-Rocks was expected to take advantage of the tailwind in the second half. Will Home Team Dynaboars be able to turn the tables?

Let’s start the second half.

9 minutes into the second half:

Dynaboars was now in a bit of a disadvantage because of the strong headwind, which makes it difficult for them to regain ground by kicking, and also because of the scrums they lost. D-Rocks opted to go for the PG, which was scored by substitute SO TAMURA, making the score 9-14.

11 minutes into the second half:

From the restart after the PG, the Dynaboars took advantage of an opponent’s infringement to take a penalty kick, and moved deep into the enemy territory, When the maul broke down, the FWs attacked on the flanks, and finally the 3 of FW players pushed forward and scored a try in the left corner of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try failed, but the score was 14-14, and the Dynaboars were back on level terms.

21 minutes into the second half:

The Dynaboars, in downwind position, tried to advance by run play instead of kicking. In a series of attacks, they exploited holes in their opponents’ defensive network, and FB Arendse broke the line, ran through the left side of the opposition line, and scored a try in the middle left of the opposition in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was missed and the score was 19-14.

The Dynaboars were able to come back and score a try.

29 minutes into the second half:

The Dynaboars, despite being downwind of their own line, took control of the attack in the second half and spent much of the time in enemy territory. WTB PALDRIDGE used his speed to break the line and run 40 meters to score a try in the right corner of the enemy’s in-goal.

The conversion goal after the try was missed, making the score 24-14.

33 minutes into the second half:

The D-Rocks were on the defensive in the second half, scoring only 3 points on PGs until this time, when the Dynaboars pushed deep into their own territory and substitute SH STRATTON rolled a punt into the in-goal, which was held by substitute NO.8 HEMOPO of the Dynaboars, resulting in a try.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 31-14.

45 minutes into the second half:

In the closing minutes of the match, D-Rocks showed their final mettle and scored a try by CTB GATES in the right corner of the enemy’s in-goal after a series of attacks totaling over 20 phases.

The conversion goal after the try failed, making the score 31-19.

With the failed PG, the game was over, and the Dynaboars were able to win their opening game of the season. Since the number of games in League One has increased this season, the second round will be played before the end of the year.

The attendance on the day was 6,607, slightly higher than the average attendance of the Dynaboars last season. We expect that there will be more heated matches after the next section.

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Stop the war.

Peace to Ukraine

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