Author: ne9ev7qf

(Author: Azul, March 13th, 2022)

It had been a long time since I had attended a night rugby game.

The venue was the same as usual, Chichibunomiya Rugby Ground in Minato-ku, Tokyo, but the kick-off time was 19:00. Night games started this season, and several games have already been held, but until now, the temperature was too low, so I did not feel like going to the games.

The last time I saw a night game was during the 2019 RWC, so this will be my first night game in three years. Also, the tickets are about $1.000 more expensive than the daytime games. Hence, I was expecting a game that would surely be a lot of fun. In that sense, I was expecting a good game since this game is a direct match between Spears (#1 in Division 1) and Sungoliath (#2).

When I entered the venue, I found that the crowd was quite large. According to the organizer’s announcement, there were 6,572 paid attendees that day. The average number of visitors to the games I have attended this season was about 3,000, which is about double the number of visitors to the games I have attended this season. However, the largest crowd this season was at the opening game, which drew about 10,000.

Both Spears and Sungoliath are popular teams, and the temperature was rather high (about 14 degrees Celsius), so it was a good day for a night game.

League One has reached the ninth round, and here are the standings as of March 11.

This season, the top four teams will advance to the tournament finals, while the bottom three teams will face off against each other in Division 2.

ranking	team	Win	Lose	Even	WP	GD
1	Kubota Spears	7	1	0	34
2	Tokyo Sungoliath	7	1	0	33
3	Saitama Wildnights	6	2	0	27	114
4	Toyota Verblitz	6	2	0	27	23
5	Yokohama Eagles	5	3	0	23
6	Tokyo Brave Lupas	4	4	0	20
7	Black Rams Tokyo	3	5	0	16
8	Green Rockets Tokatsu	2	6	0	12
9	Kobe Steelers	2	6	0	11
10	Shizuoka Blue Revs	2	6	0	10	-82
11	Red Hurricanes Osaka	2	6	0	10	-117
12	Shining Arks Tokyo Bay	2	6	0	8

WP=Winning Point

GD=Goal Difference

Let us introduce the teams competing in today’s matches.

First up is the home team, TOKYO Sungoliath.

The team boasts the strongest attack in League One. The team can score from any position on the front or back line, and out of the 15 starting members, 10 of them have represented the national team. The competition for regular players is fierce because of the depth of the team. Below is this week’s starting lineup.

No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Shintaro Ishihara	181cm	105kg	31	Japan　11cap
2	Kosuke Horikoshi	175cm	100kg	26	Japan　4cap
3	Shinnosuke Kakinaga	180cm	115kg	30	Japan　10cap
4	Takayasu Tsuji	190cm	107kg	26
5	Wataru Kobayashi	195cm	116kg	27
6	Kanji Shimokawa	187cm	106kg	23
7	Naoki Ozawa	187cm	103kg	33	Japan　4cap
8	Sean Mcmahon	186m	100kg	27	Australia　27cap
9	Yutaka Nagare	166cm	71kg	29	Japan　27cap
10	Hikaru Tamura	175cm	85kg	28
11	Tevita Li	182cm	95kg	26
12	Ryoto Nakamura	178cm	92kg	30	Japan　30cap
13	Samu Kerevi	182cm	106kg	28	Australia　38cap
14	Seiya Ozaki	174cm	84kg	26	Japan　3cap
15	Damian Mckenzie	177cm	78kg	26	New Zealand  40cap

 Sungoliath is on this day, we were able to assemble almost the best team.

Now, let me introduce visitor team KUBOTA Spears.

Spears is a strong team that made it to the top 4 of the Top League last season. The company’s strength has been improved. This season, they are one of the favorites to win the championship.

Today’s starting lineup is as follows.

No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Kengo Kitagawa	178cm	110kg	29	Japan　3cap
2	Hiroaki Sugimoto	181cm	105kg	33
3	Opeti Helu	190cm	127kg	23
4	Takenori Matsui	195cm	115kg	25
5	Yuki Aoki	188cm	105kg	29
6	Finau Tupa	190cm	115kg	32
7	Takeo Suenaga	178cm	98kg	27
8	Faulua Maikisi	187cm	112kg	24	Japan　2cap
9	Kazuhiro Taniguchi	164cm	73kg	25
10	Bernard Foley	182cm	89kg	32	Australia　71cap
11	Koga Nezuka	173cm	82kg	23
12	Harumichi Tatekawa	180cm	93kg	32	Japan 55cap
13	Sione Teaupa	183cm	97kg	29	Japan 3cap
14	Kim Suryung	186cm	90kg	23
15	Gerhard Van Den Heever	192cm	102kg	32	Japan

The team is aiming for the championship this season, and boasts a strong lineup of players that rivals Sungoliath. Especially, FW is strong, and compared to other teams, this season’s FW is bigger in size. However, two of their main players (Malkolm Marx and Peter Labuschagne) will not be able to play this week due to injury. It will be interesting to see how this will affect today’s match.

Let the game begin.

2 minutes into the first half: Immediately after the kickoff, Spears had a scrum on their own ball in front of the opponents’ goal line.　Makisi poked in and scored the first try in the right center. With the absence of hooker Marx, the team’s mainstay, the scrum was in jeopardy, but the visitors were able to push on and win the game. The conversion goal after the try was missed. The score was 0-5 in favor of Spears.

6 minutes into the first half: The substitute hooker’s throw-ins were particularly noteworthy in that they were fouled.

Sungoliath won a lineout infringement and won a scrum of their own ball in front of the enemy goal line. From there, Sungoliath expanded and on the third attack, prop Ishihara scored a try under the left goal post. The conversion goal after the goal was also successful, and Sungoliath succeeded in reversing the score to 7-5.

First half 12 minutes: Sungoliath chose to go for the PG after an infringement by their opponents, and FB Mckenzie scored to make the score 10-5.

First half 23 minutes: After a brief exchange of kicks, Spears WTB Nezuka caught the ball near the halfway line and raced down the left side of the field, passing several enemy defenders and making a big gain. From there, the ball was spread out to the right, and near the 22m line, a tight battle ensued. CTB Teaupa took advantage of a gap in the crowd to break through and score a try in the middle on the right. SO Foley scored the conversion goal after the try. The Spears were able to re-take the lead with the score 10-12.

First half 28 minutes: Sungoliath got into the enemy territory and started to attack, and SH　Nagare deployed quickly, making it difficult for Spears to block the attack. Finally, SO Tamura rolled in a punt from the middle of the 22m line, and left WTB　Li caught it and scored a try at the left end. The conversion goal after the try was also scored.  The score was 17-12, Sungoliath leading by 5 points.

First half 35 minutes: Sungoliath dominated the game from the midway point of the first half until this time.　SH Nagare led a series of attacks that left Sungoliath with an extra man on the outside. Finally, near the 22-meter line, Sungoliath made a move to the left, and SO Tamura threw a long pass that WTB Li caught and put it on the left edge for his second try was scored. The conversion goal after the try failed. The score was 22-12, Sungoliath leading by 10 points.

First 41 minutes: Spears finally took control of the ball towards the end of the first half. They attacked deep into the enemy territory and repeatedly rushed toward the goal line, mainly through their FWs. After the horn sounded at the end of the first half, a series of attacks led to a rightward expansion and the Spears’ CTB　Tatekawa threw a long pass to Sungoliath’s FB Mckenzie flicks it away with one hand and is fouled, Mckenzie is sent off for 10 minutes. Spears was awarded a certified try. The score was 22-19, and Spears finished the first half with a three-point lead.

At the end of the first half, Spears were still without their mainstay hooker Marx and flanker Labuschagne. Nevertheless, Spears was still within 3 points of Sungoliath at the end of the first half, showing the improvement of Spears’ team strength this season. The game was on.

As expected, it was getting a little chilly after 20:00 at night, but today’s hot game was worth the extra 1,000 yen. Until halftime, food and drink were sold at the stadium, and I was glad to see that everyday life had returned to normal.

Sungoliath started the second half with the introduction of a series of impact players, showing the depth of their lineup.

12 minutes into the second half: Sungoliath gradually advanced with each successive attack, with the players who came on in the second half showing their strength. After a concentrated attack on the left side of the field, Sungoliath made a big move to the right side, and finally the ball was passed to right WTB Ozaki, who used his individual skills to get past two men and score a try. The conversion goal after the try was missed. The score was 27-19, Sungoliath leading by 8 points.

20 minutes into the second half. Sungoliath was the score was 30-19 after FB Mckenzie scored a PG after a foul by the opponent in enemy territory. The Spears were able to pull away.

29 minutes into the second half: Today’s game was a game of scoring when both sides got to the goal line and scored there. From a lineout in front of the goal, Spears flanker Finau scored a try in the middle of the right field line after a great sign play, and the conversion goal failed. The score was 30-24 and Spears was within 6 points.

33 minutes into the second half: Sungoliath was in enemy territory and drew a foul from Spears, earning the right to a PG. FB Mckenzie scored on it, making the score 33-24 and giving Sungoliath a 9-point lead.

34 minutes into the second half: Spears took the ball into their own territory or to the left, and WTB Nezuka took the ball past the opposing defense for a big gain. SO Kishioka and SH　Fujiwaraga connected and quickly approached the opponent’s goal line. Once caught by Sungoliath’s defenders, they moved to the right through a tight battle, and Spears’ SO　Kisioka released a kick pass. The ball was caught by FL Tupa, who was free, and he scored a try at the right end. After the try, the conversion goal failed. The score was now 33-29 and Spears were within four points.

Toward the end of the match, the game heated up with Spears catching up quickly. Sungoliath, however, was able to run away with it and the game was over.

With this victory, Sungoliath is back on top of the table. Spears, who lost the game, also gained one point to take second place, as their loss was by seven points or less. The next match between the two teams will likely be in the final tournament, and we hope they will play each other with their best teams. The surrounding spectators left with satisfied looks on their faces.

Stop war.

Peace to Ukraine

(Author: Azul, March 6th, 2022)

A message from the author will be posted before this article.

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STOP WAR

Peace to Ukraine

When I see the tragic situation of the war happening in Ukraine on TV every day, I can’t help but to do something about it. The war in Ukraine is a “crisis of the moment” for people all over the world.

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March 6, 2022 Division 2 of Japan Rugby League One has reached the 6th round. First, the current standings of Division 2 are as follows.

Division 2
order	team	Win	Lose	Even	WP
1	Sagamihara Dynaboars	5	0	0	23
2	Hanazono Kintetsu Liners	4	1	0	20
3	Mie Honda HEAT	3	2	0	14
4	Hino Red Dolphins	2	3	0	10
5	Kamaishi Seawaves RFC	1	5	0	5
6	Mazda Skyactivs Hiroshima	0	4	0	0

The match on this day will decide the right to challenge for the replacement match with Division One. This is a head-to-head matchup between the Honda Heat, currently in 3rd place, and the Red Dolphins, currently in 4th place. The Red Dolphins, in particular, will almost lose their qualification to challenge if they lose today’s match. Can the Red Dolphins hold on?

The venue for today’s game is Musashino Athletic Field in Musashino City, Tokyo. This is the first time for me to come here. To get to the venue, take the Chuo Line from JR Hachioji Station and get off at JR Mitaka Station (about 30 minutes). The stadium is about 2 km away from the station. If you take the bus from Mitaka Station, get off at Musashino City Hall and walk for 2 minutes to get there.

On the day of the event, Musashino Citizens Day, Musashino citizens could enter the stadium for only 1,000 yen for unreserved seats in the back stand. Normally, the price is 2,000 yen, so this means that admission was half price.

On this day, the home team was the Hino Red Dolphins, and a banner of the Red Dolphins players was flying at the entrance.

Let me introduce both teams. First, here are the starting members of the home team, the Hino Red Dolphins.

Red Dolphins
No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Motoki Yamazaki	174cm	115kg	33
2	Shunya Hamano	182cm	108kg	22
3	Takuma Asahara	179cm	115kg	34	Japan 12cap
4	Takehiro Kimura	187cm	95kg	29
5	Zephania Tuinona	198cm	108kg	20
6	Ash Parker	187cm	106kg	33
7	Kyosuke Horie	183m	106kg	33	Japan 3cap
8	Ryosuke Chifu	182cm	112kg	33
9	Norifumi Hashimoto	164cm	74kg	24
10	Riku Kitahara	166cm	76kg	22
11	Chance Peni	190cm	96kg	28
12	Taiki Kawai	170cm	84kg	22
13	Mosese Tonga	173cm	102kg	29
14	Josefa Lilidam	190cm	97kg	32	Japan 7th
15	Blendan Jamenz	182cm	85kg	21

 I believe that the Red Dolphins are a team with a lot of potential, and if they get a chance, they can rise to the top of the league. I am sure they will give it their all, especially since they can’t afford to lose today’s game. So, what kind of game will they show us today?

Next, let me introduce today’s opponent, Mie Honda Heat. This team is also a strong team that belonged to the Top League last season, and has a good track record and ability. The starting lineup for today’s match is as follows.

HEATS
No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Tatsuhiko Tsurukawa	182cm	114kg	26
2	Seung Hyok Lee	179cm	110kg	23
3	Matthys Basson	190cm	116kg	26
4	Franco Mostert	200cm	112kg	31	South Africa 49cap
5	Paddy Battler	191cm	107kg	31
6	Ryota Kobayashi	182cm	98kg	30
7	Ryo Furuta	183cm	99kg	26
8	Viliami Afu Kaipouli	189cm	115kg	24
9	Kenta Yamaji	171cm	73kg	32
10	Gwantee Oh	180cm	90kg	25
11	Masaki Fujisaki	175cm	86kg	27
12	Kaito Morikawa	176cm	87kg	33
13	Klynton Knox	182cm	98kg	29
14	Nobutaka Ubukata	169cm	82kg	33
15	Matto Duffie	192cm	95kg	31	New Zealand  2cap

＊＊　Players to watch out for ＊＊

Franco Mostert, the number 4 lock. He is 200 cm tall and weighs 112 kg. He is a world-famous player who boasts a South Africa national team career cap of 48.

Honda HEAT has a strong defensive team, and in attack, they have breakthrough players in key positions. When the game turns bad weather and becomes a contest of strength, they will show their strength.

Let’s start today’s match. The weather was clear and sunny, a perfect day to watch a rugby match. The number of spectators on that day was about 2,000. It was a little bit small.

13 minutes into the first half: It was Honda HEAT who scored the first goal, with HEAT’s individual forward momentum outstripping the Red Dolphins defense, and with each successive attack, they made a little more headway. Finally, left WTB Fujisaki scored a try in the left corner. SO Oh scored the conversion goal after the try and the score was 0-7, HEAT taking the lead.

First 18 minutes: The Red Dolphins attempted a series of attacks from near halfway. SH Hashimoto broke through on the right flank and passed to WTB Peni. He made a big gain and went close to the goal, but was caught by HEAT’s defenders. From there, the Red Dolphins moved to the right and finally WTB Lilidam dragged two HEAT players behind him and scored a try in the right corner. The conversion goal after the try was missed. The score was 5-7 and the Red Dolphins were within two points.

27 minutes in the first half: HEAT chose to go for the PG after an infringement by their opponents near the 10m line, which was converted by SO　Oh scored. The score was 5-10, HEAT leading by 5 points.

The score remained unchanged for the remainder of the first half, and halftime arrived.

At halftime, the Red Dolphins mascot appeared again and did a lap around the field. Names are currently being sought.

HONDA Heat’s individual contact with the Strong in strength, the Red Dolphins were unable to advance, even when deployed in a series of attacks. Conversely, HEAT was able to gradually advance when they attacked in succession. The Red Dolphins would have to find a new attacking outlet in the second half.

And so the second half began.

14 minutes into the second half: HEAT had the upper hand in ball possession, and the Red Dolphins were unable to get into enemy territory. However, a HEAT infringement allowed the Dolphins to advance to the goal line, where they broke through with a maul from a lineout. After a few more maul attacks, prop Westhuizen scored a try in the middle of the field on the left. A conversion goal after the goal was also successful, making the score 12-10 in favor of the Red Dolphins.

18 minutes into the second half: HEAT was awarded a PG by the opposing team after a foul on their opponents, and scored a try on the way. SO Lance scored to make the score 12-13. HEAT was back on top.

20 minutes into the second half: HEAT’s attackers gradually moved forward, using the strength of their contact. As they closed in on goal, the BK players moved in unison from the left side to the right to break through the Red Dolphins’ defensive net. Finally, HEAT’s SO Lance came around to the center of the goal post and scored a try. Conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 12-20 and giving HEAT an 8-point lead.

33 minutes into the second half: The Red Dolphins scrummed deep into the enemy territory, and then took the ball to the right, where the No.8 connected with the SH and finally with the FB, who came on the way. FB Tougou scored a try right in the middle. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 19-20 and bringing the Red Dolphins within one point.

The Red Dolphins attacked from their own territory and went deep into enemy territory in the remaining time, but when the ball was dropped in front of them, their opponents picked it up and kicked it out to end the game.

The final score was 19-20 in favor of HEAT.

NICE GAME.

(Author: Azul, February 28th, 2022)

On February 26th, 2022, Japan Rugby League One Division 1 reached its seventh match of the season. The standings as of now are as shown in the table below.

order	team	Win	Lose	Even	WP
1	Tokyo Sungoliath	6	0	0	28
2	Kubota Spears	5	1	0	23
3	Toyota Verblitz	5	1	0	23
4	Saitama Wildnights	4	2	0	18
5	Yokohama Eagles	4	2	0	18
6	Tokyo Brave Lupas	3	3	0	15
7	Black Rams Tokyo	2	4	0	12
8	Kobe Steelers	2	4	0	11
9	Green Rockets Tokatsu	2	4	0	10
10	Red Hurricanes Osaka	2	4	0	9
11	Shizuoka Blue Revs	1	5	0	5
12	Shining Arks Tokyo Bay	1	5	0	4

The only team that has won all their matches is the top ranked team, Sungoliath. However, they are scheduled to play the Wild Knights, who have won all their matches except for the non-conference loss, on February 26.

The game I went to watch this time was between the 2nd place Spears and the 3rd place Verblitz.

The venue for the game was the Edogawa Athletic Stadium, the Spears’ home stadium. The nearest station is Nishi-Kasai station on the Tozai subway line. It’s a 15-minute walk from the station.

As the name suggests, you will be crossing the Edogawa River. It was quite a nice view. I got the impression that there were more people on their way to the station than last season.

From the station, it’s about 1.5km away. The weather was fine and the temperature was 13 degrees Celsius, which was comfortable for watching rugby.

The number of spectators at the stadium was 3,772, according to the official announcement. The maximum capacity of the stadium is 7,000 people, so it was a good turnout. From a business standpoint, the Spears were successful.

The supporters wearing orange shirts, the team’s color, were conspicuous, and the team is building a close relationship with the community.

Now, let me introduce the two teams for today’s match.

The starting lineup for the home team, KUBOTA Spears, is as follows.

KUBOTA
No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Kengo Kitagawa	178cm	110kg	29
2	Malkolm Marx	189cm	117kg	27	South Africa　４４cap
3	Opeti Helu	190cm	127kg	23
4	Yuki Aoki	188cm	105kg	29
5	Ruan Botha	205cm	120kg	29
6	Finau Tupa	190cm	115kg	32
7	Peter Labuschagne	189cm	106kg	32
8	Faulua Maikisi	187cm	112kg	24	Japan　2cap
9	Kazuhiro Taniguchi	164cm	73kg	25
10	Bernard Foley	182cm	89kg	32	Australia　71cap
11	Koga Nezuka	173cm	82kg	23
12	Harumichi Tatekawa	180cm	93kg	32	Japan 55cap
13	Sione Teaupa	183cm	97kg	29	Japan 3cap
14	Kim Suryung	186cm	90kg	23
15	Gerhard Van Den Heever	192cm	102kg	32	Japan

They finished in the top four in the Top League last season, and are currently ranked second in Division One of this season’s League One. Looking at their matches so far this season, I can see that they have improved their skills compared to last season. In particular, their FW set plays are more stable than last year.

＊＊　Players to watch　＊＊

Malkolm　Marx: Position: Hooker. 189cm, 117kg, 27 years old. He will join the team in 2020. Representative of South Africa. Considered to be one of the best hookers in the world, he is at the forefront of the Spears’ scrum and is a master at winning the ball in dense battles.

（The player on the left is Malkolm Marx)

Next, let’s take a look at today’s opponent, Verblitz.

Their starting lineup for the day is as follows.

Verblitz
No.	Name	height	weight	age
1	Shogo Miura	180cm	113kg	26	Japan 7cap
2	Yoshikatsu Hikosaka	178cm	99kg	30	Japan
3	Yusuke Kizu	178cm	112kg	26	Japan 3cap
4	Daichi Akiyama	192cm	110kg	25	Japan
5	Patrick Tuipulotu	198cm	120kg	28	New Zealand 41cap
6	Peter-Steph Du Toit	200cm	120kg	29	South Africa 58cap
7	Masato Furukawa	179cm	95kg	25	Japan 2cap
8	Kazuki Himeno	187cm	112kg	27	Japan 22cap
9	Kenta Fukuda	173cm	80kg	25
10	Lionel Cronie	184cm	92kg	32
11	Seiyu Kohara	183cm	92kg	29
12	Yuki Okada	181cm	91kg	26
13	William Tupou	188cm	101kg	31	Japan 3cap
14	Dai Ozawa	183cm	89kg	32
15	Willie Le Roux	186cm	90kg	32	South Africa 70cap

The Verblitz finished in the top four in last year’s Top League, and are currently in third place in Division One of this season’s League One. Many of their regular players have experience in the Japanese national team and other national teams, and their depth of players is second to none.

＊＊　Players to watch　＊＊

Kenta Fukuda: Position: Scrum-half. 173cm, 80kg, 25 years old. He graduated from Meiji University. As a senior at Meiji University, he was the captain of the team that won the University Championship. He was a star player at university, but the Verblitz’s thick ranks prevented him from joining the team. In his third year with the team, he finally got a chance to play in the starting lineup. He has exceptional running ability and can play as a WTB. He is expected to join the Japanese national team at an early stage.

Now, let’s start the match.

As the two teams are very close in ability, the game started off well.

3 minutes into the first half: a foul by the opposing team gave them a chance to score a PG. Spears’ SO　Foley scored the first goal with a successful PG. The score was 3-0.

The Verblitz had a PG opportunity, and SO Crinie scored the goal. The score was 3-3.

19 minutes into the first half: The Spears entered the enemy territory and moved to the left. Left WTB Nezuka, making his first start of the official match, received the ball on the left edge of the field and made a huge gain to the goal. At this point, Spears’ FW quickly gathered and made a side attack. At the end, No.8 Makisi scored a try in the left middle. After the try, SO Foley scored the conversion goal to make the score 10-3, and Spears led by 7 points.

21 minutes into the first half: The Verblitz were slow to gather in a dense battle, and when they do get their own ball, Spears is quick to get it back.

Spears tackled a Verblitz back who deploys the ball, and a quick follow-up player catches up with him, resulting in a turnover. Spears continued to roll out to the right, and SO Foley was able to get to the right end, and right WTB Kim ran into it. Kim ran in front of the goal and passed to SH Taniguchi who followed him. Taniguchi scored a try in the right middle. After the try, SO Foley scored the conversion goal to give Spears a 14-point lead.

31 minutes into the first half: The game was in the hands of the Spears at every contact point. Verblitz, looking to get back into the game, won a lineout in front of the opponent’s goal. The Verblitz team won the ball from a lineout in front of the opponent’s goal and formed a maul. The maul was crushed by Spears, but from there the Verblitz’s SH Fukuda deployed. Pretending to move to the right, Fukuda took advantage of the moment and broke through the defensive net. Fukuda went around the center of the goal with his speed and scored a try. After the try, SO Clonie converted the goal to make the score The score became 17-10.

The first half ended with the Spears leading by 7 points.

It was halftime. It was unfortunately raining when we came here last season, but today was a fine day at the Edogawa Athletic Field. It’s nice to see Tokyo Sky Tree behind the main stand here.

The home team, Spears, seemed to be familiar with the fans in this area. And I noticed a lot of supporters wearing orange Spears baseball shirts. I was also struck by the fact that the play-by-play announcer here was trying to be neutral, even though they were the home team. Normally, the home team announcer would only make a fuss when the home team scored, but even when the visiting team scored, he treated it as if it was the same. Could it be that someone from the ward office is the announcer?

Then, the second half started.

6 minutes into the second half: At the end of the first half, one Spears player was temporarily sent off, but he used the time well and invited the other team to commit a foul. This led to a PG. SO Foley scored it, and the score was 20-10. And Spears took a 10-point lead.

9 minutes into the second half: Spears, despite being a man down, launched a wave of attacks in the enemy territory. Gradually, they got closer and closer to the goal line, and just when they were about to score a try, Verblitz’s SO　Cronie intercepted the pass. He ran about 90 meters to score a try right under the goal posts. After the try, he scored the conversion goal by himself to make the score 20-17. And Verblitz was within three points.

18 minutes into the second half: The Spears set up a maul from a lineout in front of the opposition goal and pushed forward. Finally, hooker Marx scored a try, and after the conversion goal, the score was 27-17, a 10-point lead for Spears.

23 minutes into the second half: The Verblitz team was in a crowded area when Spears was penalized for side-stepping into the crowd. Verblitz’s SO Cronie chose to go for the PG, and despite being almost 45 meters away, he succeeded. The score was 27-20, and Verblitz was within 7 points.

26 minutes into the second half: Spears started to take control of the ball and had more time to develop. After a long series of attacks, SO Foley rolled a punt long and hard to the left corner, where left WTB Nezuka caught it and passed it to flanker Labuschagne and he scored a try. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 34-20, giving Spears a 14-point lead.

35th minute: From a lineout in front of the enemy’s goal, Spears formed a maul and pushed forward for a try, which was scored by hooker Marx. It was his second try of the day. SO Foley scored the conversion goal after the try, and the score was 41-20, giving Spears a 21-point lead.

And the game ended with Spears winning by 5 points. As Sungoliath lost the match of this day. Spears took the lead.

(Author: Azul, February 20th, 2022)

This week, I went to Hachioji City’s Kamiyugi Park Athletic Stadium for a League One match in my hometown of Hachioji City. If the traffic is good, it takes less than an hour from my house to the stadium.

Today’s match was between Hino Red Dolphins and Sagamihara Dynaboars, teams from Division 2 of the Japan Rugby League One. Today’s home team is Red Dolphins.

Kamiyugi Park Track and Field Stadium is a stadium that I have fond memories of, as I have run there before in local track and field events. However, although Hachioji is a large city with a population of more than 500,000, there is no professional rugby or soccer team to represent the local area, although there is a professional basketball team. Therefore, the stadium has no roof, which is quite a problem when it rains.

Today, the weather forecast predicted rain, so there were only about 2,000 spectators. The maximum capacity of this stadium is 5,007 people, so considering the admission restrictions due to the new corona infection and the bad weather, it was a good turnout. However, compared to the track and field stadium in the neighboring city of Machida, this stadium is quite inferior, so I hope that it will be improved soon to attract a rugby club.

Both of the teams playing today are located closest to my home, so I feel a sense of familiarity with them. I wish them both the best of luck.

Let’s take a look at the standings in Division 2 of League One until the fourth round.

1st place: Sagamihara Dynaboars: 4 wins, 0 losses

2nd place: Hanazono Kintetsu Liners: 3 wins and 1 loss

3rd : Hino Red Dolphins : 2 wins and 2 losses

No. 4: Mie Honda Heat: 2 wins, 2 losses

5th: Kamaishi Seawaves RFC: 1 win, 3 losses

6th place: Mazda Skyactivs Hiroshima: 0 wins and 4 losses

In Division 2, the top three teams will play in a match to replace Division 1, and the bottom 3 teams will play in the replacement game with Division 3.

Let’s take a look at the two teams.

First up is the home team, the Hino Red Dolphins.

Until last year, they were in the Top League, and played a close match against the mighty Toyota Verbritz in the second round of the final tournament. The team has a stable set-up and does not collapse. One of their weaknesses is that they lack the ace in the hole to score tries. They are a team with a high average ability, but their attack (especially backs player) is lacking.

Today’s starting line-up was as follows.

1. Motoki Yamazaki: 174cm, 115kg, 33 years old

2. Takeshi Kizu:183cm, 113kg, 33 years old, Japan national team cap 44

3. Takuma Asahara: 179cm, 115kg, 34 years old, cap 12 for Japan

4. Takehiro Kimura: 187cm, 95kg, 29 years old

5. Akinori Hirota: 193cm, 110kg, 27 years old

6. Zephania Tuinona: 198cm, 108kg, 20 years old

7. Kyosuke Horie: 183cm, 106kg, 31 years old, Japan cap3

8. Parker Ash: 187cm, 106kg, 33 years old

9. Kotaro Furukawa: 167cm, 71kg, 27 years old

10. Shigenori Someyama: 171cm, 80kg, 31 years old

11. Sho Kataoka: 174cm, 83kg, 34 years old

12. Taiki Kawai: 170cm, 84kg, 24 years old

13. Tonga Mosese: 173cm, 102kg, 29 years old

14. Shogo Tokota: 182cm, 90kg, 24 years old

15. Ryo Kikkawa: 175cm, 84kg, 25 years old

Next, let’s take a look at the visiting team, Sagamihara Dynaboars.

Like Dolphins, they were in the Top League until last year, when they lost to the mighty Kobe Steel in the second round of the final tournament. Compared to the year before last, when they were promoted to the Top League, they have made great progress in strengthening their players. At that time, the only decisive player in BK was Little, CTB, but this season, they have placed several decisive players in key positions.

Today’s starting lineup is as follows.

1 Naoki Kawamata: 184cm, 125kg, 36 years old, Japan cap 18

2. Yoshimitu Yasue: 176cm,109kg, 37 years old, cap 2 for Japan

3 Tomoaki Ishii: 182cm, 120kg, 26 years old

4 Makoto Daniel Linde: 195cm, 109kg

5. Jackson Hemopo: 194cm, 111kg, 28 years old, 5cap for NZ

6. Sam Chongkit: 198cm, 108kg, 26 years old

7. Dylan Nel: 187cm, 111kg, 29 years old

8. Heiden Bedwell Curtis: 187cm, 108kg, 30 years old

9. Kota Iwamura: 182cm, 87kg, 28 years old

10. Kazuki Ishida: 173cm, 85kg, 25 years old

11. Taumohaapai Honeti: 180cm, 94kg, 29 years old

12. Michael Little: 180cm, 93kg, 28 years old

13. Nozomi Nara: 180cm, 93kg, 25 years old

14. Ben Paltridge: 177cm, 88kg, 29 years old

15. Alaiasa Roland: 177cm, 94kg, 26 years old

Kickoff was at 14:30.

According to the pre-war predictions, the leading Dynaboars have the advantage.

7 minutes into the first half: Dynaboars were attacked deep into their own territory, but SO Ishida received the ball at the back right corner and kicked it back to touch. This rolled deep into the opponents’ territory and went out of the pitch just beyond the 22-meter line. This became the ball for Dynaboars due to the application of the new 50-22 rule.

Slade, a former NZ national team player, was a regular SO for Dynaboars at first, but he got injured in the first game and hasn’t played since.

He has been active in every game and has supported Dynaboars’ progress. In this game, too, he successfully completed a 50-22 kick, which can only be seen once a game, even in a professional game.

10 minutes into the first half: From a lineout near the enemy 10-meter line, Dynaboars won the ball and deployed it to the right. After a series of close passes, the ball was passed to right WTB player Paltridge, who got past one of the opposing defenders and scored a try in the middle right.

SO Ishida also scored the conversion goal after the try, and the score was 0-7, and Dynaboars got the first point.

Paltridge is the top try scorer in Division 2. He has scored 7 tries so far, which means he has scored an average of 2 tries per game. He is also one of the new members of Dynaboars team that is making great strides.

After the first goal, Red Dolphins’ defense showed persistence, and the game became a back-and-forth stalemate.

30 minutes into the first half: Dynaboars secured the ball at a lineout on the right side near the halfway line. Flanker Kit went behind Red Dolphins defensive line and connected with left WTB Honeti, who went around the goal post to score a try. Ishida also scored the conversion goal after the goal, and the score was 0-14 in favor of Dynaboars.

Dynaboars are in an ideal situation, as both the left and right WTBs are decisive, and if they develop, they will be able to score.

39th minute of the first half: Dynaboars won a scrum on their own ball in front of the enemy goal line in the middle of the right, and passed the ball to WTB Poltridge on the right edge of the field, who dodged two defenders and scored a try in the right corner. The conversion after the try Ishida scored the conversion goal after the try, and the score was 0-21, further increasing Dynaboars’ lead.

However, Red Dolphins were too careless to put only one defenseman in front of the goal line against Dynaboars’ Paltridge, the try king of Division 2.

This was the end of the first half.

At halftime, the mascots of both teams appeared on the field.

As was the case in last week’s game, there were a lot of small children at Red Dolphins game. Not so many on Dynaboars side. Red Dolphins kids are all wearing Dolphins uniforms, so Red Dolphins are probably holding a rugby class for kids.

The second half began.

Down by 21 points, Red Dolphins went into enemy territory again from the start of the second half, and from there, tried to make progress. However, Dynaboars’ defenders tackled low, and Red Dolphins were unable to break through the enemy’s defensive net and entered a stalemate.

13 minutes into the second half: Red Dolphins FB Kikkawa was tackled by Dynaboars WTB Poltridge as he attacked into his own territory, and Dynaboars won the dense battle and quickly moved to the right. Dynaboars’ left WTB Honeti sprinted down the right side and made a big gain. At the end, Dynaboars’ right WTB Poltridge, who had followed him, received the ball and went around to the center of the goal to score his third try of the day.

After the try, SO Ishida scored the conversion goal to make the score 0-28, and Dynaboars took a one-sided lead.

18 minutes into the second half: The host Red Dolphins, needing to score at any cost, attacked the goal after a foul by their opponents, secured the ball at the left end lineout, and then proceeded to make a maul. In the end, hooker Kizu broke away and scored a try in the middle left corner with his individual skills. After the try, FB Kikkawa scored the conversion goal to make the score 7-28, and Red Dolphins fought back.

22 minutes into the second half, Dynaboars attacked deep into enemy territory, and from a scrum in the middle right, Dynaboars expanded left, and FB Roland came close to the goal line, but Red Dolphins barely made a tackle to stop him. Dynamoers then got into a dense battle, and finally substitute LO Uluviti scored a try. The conversion goal after the try failed. The score was 7-33, giving Dynaboars a 28-point lead.

No points were scored after that, and the final score was 7-33, a victory for Dynaboars. Since they outscored their opponents by three tries, a bonus point was added to the score, and Dynaboars were able to secure the top spot with five points.

On the other hand, Red Dolphins unexpectedly lost three games in a row, which means that they will not be able to participate in the replacement game with Division 1.

The other thing that all teams need to be aware of here is the non-conference loss due to the new corona infection. This week, four of the six Division 1 games were cancelled. No matter how strong a team is, if many players are infected with the new corona, they will lose the game. This is a situation where hygiene management within the team is being questioned.

＊＊　Jersey Collection 57　＊＊

This is a replica of the French national team jersey by Le　coq, the company that makes the uniforms worn by the current French national team. I bought this new old item on Mercari for 6,000 yen. The latest model of the French national team jersey made by Le Coq is still not that common and is also very expensive. You might want to wait a little longer.

(Author: Azul, February 13th, 2022)

This week, there were no matches scheduled for all teams in Division 1 of League One. So I went to watch a Division 2 game.

As a brief explanation, Division One is a division of Upper　League, and Division 2 is the lower league. There is Division 3 below Division 2. At the end of the season, there will be an inter-divisional replacement game. Division 2 teams must finish in the top three in order to participate in the inter-divisional tournament.　

The two teams playing today are currently fighting for the second place in Division 2, and both teams cannot afford to lose.

The venue for today’s match is the sacred ground of the East, Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium.

The game started early at 12:00. Today’s host team is the Hino Red Dolphins.

Their parent company is Hino Motors, a manufacturer of car trucks. They finished 9th in the top league last season. In terms of performance, they could have been a Division 1 team. They have several former Japanese national team members, and their style of play is rather solid, mainly in FW.

They are the closest team to my house, so personally, I hope they get promoted soon. Good luck, Red Dolphins.

Next, I’d like to introduce today’s visiting team. The Hanazono Kintetsu Liners. The parent company is Kinki Nippon Railway. Their home stadium is the Hanazono Kintetsu Rugby Stadium in Higashi Osaka City. Last season, they finished 2nd in the Top Challenge League (2nd division league) and participated in a tournament with the Top League, defeating the Munakata Sanix of the Top League in the first round and advancing to the second round. They lost to the Wild Knights, who won the tournament. The Liners are also good enough to compete in Division 1.

This team has some notable stars on their roster.

＊＊Quade Cooper: World class SO with 75 caps for Australia. 187cm, 90kg. 33 years old.

＊＊Wil Genia: World class SH with 110 caps for Australia. 174cm, 82kg. 33 years old.

＊＊Siosaia Fifita: 6 caps for Japan, expected to play as a CTB and WTB with his breakthrough ability and speed. 187 cm, 105 kg. 23 years old.

＊＊Semisi Masirewa: 2 caps for Japan, WTB, FB, a decisive backs player who scored a lot of tries in his time with the Sunwolves despite the team’s inferiority. He is 29 years old, 181cm, 93kg.

The temperature at the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium was a cool 10 degrees Celsius, but the entire back stand was unreserved, so I was able to sit in the third row. The backstands were well lit and I could see the game clearly, so I didn’t feel the cold so much.

So, the game started at 12:00 on time.

0 minutes into the first half: SO Cooper of the Liners made a big play out of nowhere. He received the ball at right end and threw a TD pass like an NFL QB to WTB Kataoka at left end. He threw it to WTB Kataoka on the left end and he caught it. It wasn’t a great try, but it got the crowd going.

5 minutes into the first half: The Red Dolphins kicked off to the left end after a foul by the opposing team, resulting in a lineout for their own ball. The ball is won and the Red Dolphins move forward in a maul, and after the maul collapses, lock Kimura charges down the left flank and scoreed a try. The conversion goal after the try was missed, and the Red Dolphins took the lead, 5-0.

11 minutes to go in the first half: The Liners started from the center of the ground, expanded to the left, and advance to the opponent’s goal line. After the try, the conversion goal was not scored. The score was tied at 5-5.

16 minutes into the first half: The Liners attacked from their own half to the left, and WTB Kataoka broke through to score a try in the center of the field. But Red Dolphins SO Kitahara prevented the try with an artistic move by putting his hand behind the ball held by Kataoka and knocking it down.

29th minute: The Red Dolphins kicked the ball to the right side of the goal after a foul by the opponent, and won the ball in a lineout. After the goal, the conversion goal failed. The score was now 10-5, and the Red Dolphins led by 5 points.

First half 32 minutes: Liners. After an infringement by the opponents in enemy territory, the liners choose to kick to the right corner in front of the opponents’ goal line. SO Cooper threw a long pass from the center point to the left corner. WTB Kataoka caught the ball and scored a try in the left corner. The conversion goal after the try failed. The score was tied at 10-10.

36th minute: The WTB, FB, and SO of both teams kicked each other, and it became a stalemate. The Liners caught the ball, ran to the left, and finally WTB Kataoka shook off three Red Dolphins players one after another to score his second try of the day in the left corner. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the Liners succeeded in turning the score to 10-17.

40 minutes into the first half: After the try, the Liners kicked off and made a series of attacks to advance into the opponent’s territory and close in on their goal line. The Red Dolphins’ defense showed persistence and prevented many scoring opportunities, but in the end, in a dense battle in front of the goal, SH Genia of the Liners passed the ball with an acrobatic tap pass and developed it. The conversion goal was also successful. And the Liners scored another valuable point at the end of the game. The score was 10-24, a 14-point lead for the Liners at the end of the first half.

At halftime, the mascot of the host team, the Red Dolphins, appeared on the field.

This mascot was very popular with the kids, and they all followed him.

Then, the second half began.

10 minutes into the second half: The Red Dolphins, wanting to close the gap, kicked forward from a foul by their opponents, won a lineout, and developed the ball to the right, where lock Kimura scored his second try of the day in the right corner. The conversion goal after the try failed. The score is now 15-24, and the Liners lead by 9 points.

14 minutes into the second half: From the kickoff after the try, the Liners moved forward into enemy territory, and No.8 Tupou broke through the Red Dolphins’ defensive network and closed in on the opposing goal line. Then passed to CTB Fifita. Eventually he scored a try in the middle right corner with his arm outstretched despite being tackled by opponents. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 15-31, giving the Liners a 16-point leads.

16 minutes into the second half: After a foul by the Red Dolphins, the Liners kicked their way deep into enemy territory.  And CTB Fifita ran straight so fast into the middle for the try that the opposing defenders couldn’t move an inch. The spectators in the stands called it the “Kintetsu Express”. The conversion goal after the try was also scored, and the score was 15-38, giving the Liners a 23-point lead.

From that point on, the game became a bit of a disappointment, as the Liners kept scoring points one after another. The Red Dolphins have a strong FW team, and their set plays are stable, and they can play a solid game even against strong opponents. However, in today’s game, their defensive formation was easily broken down by the liners’ SH Genia and SO Cooper, and they scored a series of tries. In the second half of the season, the same game (home game of the Liners) will be played, so I hope they will get revenge there.

The final score of the Red Dolphins vs. the Liners was 22-67.

Next week, I will be going to Hachioji City to watch the Hino Red Dolphins vs Sagamihara Dynaboars game at the Kamiyugi Park Track and Field Stadium. I’ll be watching to see how the Red Dolphins stack up against the Dynaboars, who are currently in first place in Division 2.

＊＊　Jerseys Collection 56　＊＊

When soccer legend Diego Maradona passed away in November of 2020, the prices of related jerseys skyrocketed. The other day, I bought a used jersey that was in good condition and the price had finally settled down.

This is an adidas originals product. I bought it on Yahoo Auctions for 5,000 yen, but by November of 2020, the price had gone over 20,000 yen, so I couldn’t afford it. Another classic Maradona jersey for Japanese fans is the HAND OF GOD, introduced in Jersey Collection 16.

(Author: Azul, February 6th, 2022)

Japan Rugby League One, which started on January 8, has entered its fifth round this week. The league will end on May 8, the 16th season, so it is still in the early stages.

It was a pity that the game was cancelled two weeks ago due to the outbreak of a new corona infection among Shining Arks officials.

This week, I went to the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium in Minato Ward, Tokyo again.

The weather was cloudy, but as you would expect in February in the middle of winter, it was very cold again today. The highest temperature was 5 degrees Celsius and there was a north wind blowing, so the temperature was below freezing. Sometimes it even started to snow.

A state of emergency is about to be declared in Tokyo due to the new corona infection, but the stadium was open to spectators and the game was on.

The number of paying visitors today was 4,306. Without the new Corona, we can expect more spectators, but still, considering the current situation, I think we did well in terms of business.

Today’s home team was the Shining Arcs, so the banners of the regular players were fluttering in the stadium aisles.

The player in the photo is SH Laidlaw, who represented Scotland at the 2019 RWC. He’s a central player who is the face of the Shining Arks.

Our seats today were in the north corner of the back stand, gate 17, row 23, row 343.

This is what it looks like from this seat, which is a bit far from the ground and difficult to take pictures of.

Let’s take a look at the two teams that will be playing today.

First, the home team, Shining Arcs.

＊NTT Communications Shining Arks Tokyo Bay Urayasu

The host town is Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture, where Tokyo Disneyland is located. They finished 9th in the top league last year, and are one of the lower ranked teams in the league. The parent company is NTT Communications, and we have made a lot of reinforcements for the first year of League One. The two current Japan representatives are CTB Shane Gates and lock Jeames Moore. In addition, they have several experienced Super RUGBY experience have joined the team. And the key reinforcements are former Scotland SH Laidlaw and former Australia FB Israel Folau. This Falou in particular has 73 caps for the Australian national team and is still the strongest FB in the world. He is 194cm tall, weighs 103kg, and has a speed ability of 10 seconds in 100m. When he receives the ball with top speed, he has an unstoppable breakthrough power.

Next, let’s take a look at the opponent, Saitama Wild Knights.

• Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights

They are last year’s Top League champion team. They are the top candidate for the League One championship this season, having won the championship five times in the Top League era. It is the strongest team with 11 current candidates for the Japanese national team and many experienced representatives from other countries in the team. The team is almost as good as the Japanese national team. The team’s style of play is strong defensive power. Anyway, the team makes few mistakes and loses few points.

Like Suntory Sangorias, this team also has a large number of merit players, but this year’s main reinforcement is WTB Coloibete with the number 11. He is 182cm tall, 96kg, and can run 100m in 10 seconds.

And now, the match begins. Today’s kickoff was late, at 14:30.

As expected, it was the Wild Knights who took the lead.

1 minute into the first half: The Wild Knights won the ball from the right edge of the enemy territory near the 22m line, and immediately deployed to the left side. Lock Cornelsen followed up with a try near the goal posts. After the try, SO Matsuda scored the conversion goal to make it 0-7, and the Wild Knights were ahead by 7 points.

6 minutes into the first half: After a foul by the opposition, SO Matsuda kicks the ball to the enemy 22m line and wins another lineout. This time, they formed a maul and tried to advance, but hooker Sakate found an open space on the left side and ran into it to score another try easily. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 0-14, giving the Wild Knights an early 14-point lead.

14 minutes into the first half: The Wild Knights scored three tries in a row in the exact same pattern as before. They won the ball in a lineout from the 22m line on the right edge of the enemy territory. They formed a maul and moved forward by force. The Shining Arcs FW was unable to stop the advance and the try was scored. The try was scored by Wild Knights hooker Sakate, his second of the day, and SO Matsuda successfully converted the goal to make the score 0-21. The score became 0-21, and the Wild Knights took a big lead.

The score was 0-21, and the Wild Knights took a big lead. 28 minutes into the first half: SO Matsuda of the Wild Knights chose PG after a foul by the opposing team, and scored steadily. The score is now 0-24, and the Wild Knights lead by 24 points.

Today, I was watching the game from the north stand, but the Shining Arcs were pushed to their own side and didn’t come to our side at all. The Wild Knights are too strong.

36th minute of the first half: The Wild Knights were fouled again and won the ball from a lineout near the 22m line on the right edge of the enemy territory to form a maul. The Shining Arks looked like they were going to do the same thing again, but they showed their determination and crushed the maul. The Wild Knights scored a try when WTB Takeyama, who was hiding behind a crowd of players, came around well and scored a try. After the try, the conversion goal failed. The score was 0-29, and the Wild Knights took a huge lead.

This Takeyama is a great WTB player with a lot of qualities. He has a natural sense of scoring tries, and when he gets a chance, he steadily scores a try. I hope he will make the Japan national team soon.

The first half ended. The score was 0-29, and it was a one-sided game for the Wild Knights.

In preparation for the second half, the Shining Arks reserve players started warming up. SH Laidlaw can be seen among them.

Then it was halftime.

Supporters cheering for the Shining Arcs in this cold weather. They are wearing matching blue happi coats.

Shining Arcs also cheered the team on with drums during halftime. They are wearing light upper body clothes in this snowy weather. Good luck, Shining Arcs.

8 minutes into the second half: From near the center of the ground, the Wild Knights made a series of attacks. At the end, CTB Riley breaks through the Shining Arcs defense and connects with WTB Takeyama. Takeyama overcame the chasing defence with his speed to score a try in the middle right. Takeyama scored his second try of the day. The conversion goal was also successful, and the Wild Knights extended their lead to 0-36.

Finally at the right side of the opponent area FB Noguchi of Wild Knights received the ball then cut in and scored the try in the right side of the goal line. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 0-43, and the Wild Knights took the lead further.

31st minute of the 2nd half: The Shining Arks started to attack in succession and made steady gains. No.8 Tupou passed the ball to their trump card, FB Folau, who accelerated to catch the ball and pass it past three players to score a try in the middle right corner. The stands erupted with the loudest cheer of the day. The conversion goal was unsuccessful, and the score became 5-43, and the Shining Arcs finally got their revenge.

39 minutes into the second half: The Shining Arcs were attacked in front of the goal several times, but their defense became more tenacious and prevented the Wild Knights from scoring a decisive try on several occasions. In the closing minutes, however, the Wild Knights expanded to the right side in front of the goal, and No.8 Fukui stretched out his arm to score a try in the right corner. The conversion goal failed and the final score was 5-48. It was a victory for the Wild Knights.

But still, the Wild Knights are strong. So far, only Suntory Sangorias has the same momentum.

＊＊　Jersey Collection 55　＊＊

These are the happi coats of the host team, the Shining Arcs, which were handed out free of charge to visitors at today’s game.

All the teams put a lot of thought into their fan service. It makes me want to go to various teams’ games and collect them.

The next game I plan to watch is on February 12.

Hino Red Dolphins vs Hanazono Kintetsu Liners

The venue is the same as today, Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium.

(written by Azul, January 30th, 2022)

Japan Rugby League One, which started on January 8, 2022, has reached its fourth round this week. Let’s take a look at the standings of Division One until the third round.

Looking at the picture above, the first place for the Sungokiath is in order, but the NEC Green Rockets in 5th place and the Toyota Verblitz in 6th place are in the top group, even though they have not won a single match. This is due to the fact that they have non-conference wins due to the new Corona. NEC Green Rockets, in particular, had lost all of their games in last year’s Top League, so they were at the bottom of the pre-war rankings. At the moment, they have an unexpected tailwind. The bottom three teams will face a replacement game, so can they really stay in Division 1? This is very interesting.

I was scheduled to watch the match between Shining Arcs Tokatsu and NEC Green Rockets at the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium last week, but the match was cancelled due to the outbreak of a new corona infection in Shining Arcs. I was very sorry. It’s a shame.

And now, let’s get back on track.

Brave Lupus Tokyo vs Toyota Verblitz

at the Komazawa Athletic Stadium in Tokyo.

The temperature was a cool 8 degrees Celsius, but it wasn’t as cold as I thought it would be since there was almost no wind and my seat was in the sun for the whole game. Today’s game was a home game for the Brave Lupus, so there were related decorations near the entrance gate.

The photo above is the entrance gate.

Decoration of WTB Naikabura (Japan national team candidate) of the Brave Blue Pass.

A balloon of Lupus-kun, the mascot of the Brave Lupus.

And I entered the stadium. My seat for today was in the South Stand, row S1, number 97. Oh, I was able to sit in the first row again. It’s a great seat for taking pictures.

Before the game starts, let me introduce the two teams.

＊＊　Brave Lupus Tokyo　＊＊

Founded in 1948. The team has won the Top League championship five times in the past. A strong team with four candidates for the Japanese national team and many experienced national team players. The team’s traditional style of play is to push forward with power, centering on their powerful FW.

Next.

＊＊　Toyota Verbritz　＊＊

The team was established in 1941. Although they have not won any championships in the Top League in recent years, they have won five championships in the National Corporate League before that. They have the ability to make it to the top every year. This team also has a strong lineup with five candidates for the Japanese national team, two candidates for the South African national team, and many others with national team experience. The team’s style of play is similar to that of the Brave Lupus, but they have a strong FW team in front of them. The highlight of the season is the new addition of South African flanker Dutoit. He is 200cm tall and the best player in the world for 2019.

So, let the match begin.

Both teams are full of energy from the start, as their team color is rugby of power. In particular, the power of the Brave Lupus to come forward is amazing. Will they be able to hold it till the end with such a rush?

The first goal was scored in the 10th minute of the first half. The Brave Lupus attacked into the enemy territory and formed a maul in front of the opponent’s goal. Gradually, they pushed forward, and finally, SH Ogawa passed two players from the side of the maul and scored the first try in the middle right corner. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 7-0 in favor of the Brave Lupus.

The game remained deadlocked for the rest of the game, but there were some great plays during the stalemate.

15 minutes into the first half: Verblitz flanker Du Toit chased down Toshiba WTB Hamada, tackled him, knocked him down, and then jackaled him in a series of moves. Normally, this is a two-step process: tackle, reposition, and jackal. Furthermore, despite being a giant of a man, standing 2 meters tall and weighing 120 kilograms, he was able to tackle at his feet with an extremely low posture. As expected of the world’s best player.

Also 15 minutes into the first half: SH Ogawa of the Brave Lupus kicked the ball 50:22 out of a scrum in his own half. Fifty-Twenty kicks is a new rule. If the ball is kicked from the team’s own area and bounces once in the opposing team’s area then go out from the touch line of the opposing team, the next lineout starts with the kicker’s ball. If this is decided, you will be able to start the lineout with your own ball in front of the opponent’s goal, which will give you a chance to score at once.

20 minutes into the first half: SO Taylor of the Brave Lupus succeeded in a PG. The score is now 10-0 in favor of the Brave Lupus.

28 minutes into the first half: The Verblitz finally responded. WTB Okada cut in from the left side to the center and scored a try. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 10-7, with the Velbritz closing the gap to three points.

31 minutes into the first half, Taylor scored a PG to make the score 13-7, giving the Brave Lupus a six-point lead.

33 minutes: After a foul by the opposing team, Verblitz won a lineout deep in the enemy territory and formed a maul. Verblitz’s hooker Kato scored a try in the middle left corner. The conversion goal after the try was also successful, and the score was 13-14. The score is now 13-14, and the Velbrits have finally turned the tables.

40th minute of the first half: Verblitz scored a PG at the end of the first half to make the score 13-17, and the first half ended with Verblitz taking a 3-point lead.

Today’s game reminds us that rugby is a contact sport. Towards the end of the first half, Verblitz came into their own, and the game became worth watching.

According to the tournament office, the number of spectators today was 2,841. It’s a bit sad for a stadium that can hold up to 20,010 people, but the increase in the number of new corona infections is now reaching its peak, so it’s a good thing that the games were not held without spectators.

Let’s start the second half.

2 minutes into the second half: The Brave Lupus are looking to get back into the game and are attacking hard at the start of the second half. After a series of attacks, the Brave Lupus moved to the right, and CTB Tamanivalu threw a pass to the outside. WTB Naikabura caught the pass and used his individual skills to get past three players to score a try in the center.

The conversion goal after the try was also successful, making the score 20-17, and the Brave Lupus turned the tables and took a three-point lead.

Both sides were determined not to lose, and both sides scored PGs in the middle of the game.

6 and 14 minutes into the second half: Verblitz scores a PG. 20-23, Verblitz again.

17 minutes into the second half: Brave Lupus scored a PG to tie the score at 23-23.

20 minutes into the second half: Verblitz scores another PG to take a three-point lead, 23-26.

23 minutes into the second half: The decisive try of the game. Verblitz’s SH Fukuda picked up a spilled ball in his own half and ran over 80 meters solo. Just before the goal line, he was caught by Tamarivalu, CTB of Brave Lupus, but Tamanivalu was sent off for 10 minutes for an illegal tackle.And seven points were added to the score for what would have been a try for the Verblitz had it not been for the foul. As a result, the score was 23-33, and the Verblitz had a 10-point lead.

After that, the game was deadlocked again, and the Brave Lupus came close to scoring several times, but could not score. The game ended with a final score of 23-33 in favor of the Verblitz.

The Player of the Match for this match was Kenta Fukuda, SH of the Velbrits, who graduated from Meiji University in 2019 and joined the Velbrits, finally being able to play in an official match. The fact that even university stars can’t become regular players right away shows the depth of the Verblitz squad.

Japan Rugby League One is clearly more powerful than last year, with stars from around the world coming together, and I am looking forward to the future matches.

Next week, February 5, at the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium in Tokyo

Shining Arcs Tokyo Bay Urayasu vs Saitama Wild Knights

Lastly, at the entrance of the stadium, there was a collection of donations for the Kingdom of Tonga due to the recent eruption of an underwater volcano in Tonga. I was able to contribute a small amount of money. I pray for the earliest possible recovery.

＊＊　Jersey Collection 54　　＊＊

This is a French tricolor jersey. This is not a replica of the rugby team, but as a fan of the French national team, I can’t help but want one when I see a jersey in the tricolor blue. I bought it for 3,980 yen on Yahoo! Auctions.

(Written by Azul, January 22nd, 2022)

January 9th, 2022. On this day, the National University Rugby Championship reached its final match. Representative schools from all over the country competed for supremacy, and there were two schools that made it to the final. The two schools that made it to the final are the Teikyo University Rugby Club and the Meiji University Rugby Club.

The venue for the final was the New National Stadium in Tokyo, the same place as the semifinals. It is the most appropriate stadium to compete for Japan’s best in domestic sports.

In contrast to the freezing cold weather of last week, the temperature was over 10 degrees Celsius, making it easy to watch the game. The kick-off time was 13:15. As in the semi-finals, the match was played at the New National Stadium, but the difference from last week was the Social Distance. Until last week, spectators had to sit with one seat open, but this week, there was no social distance. And the audience was already packed and seated.

The new Corona is starting to rage again, and I wonder if it will be okay. I’m a little worried.

Before we get to the games, let me introduce the two teams that have advanced to the finals.

＊＊Teikyo University.＊＊

The absolute champion of the past has returned to the final stage. They have won all seven of their matches in the Kanto University Rivalry.

＊University Championship

Quarterfinal: vs Doshisha University – 76-24　

Semi-final: vs Kyoto Sangyo University – 37-30

In the previous week’s game against Kyoto Sangyo University, they won a close game for the first time this season. Have they been able to use this game as a stepping stone to improve their team strength? Or are they still in a wounded state after last week’s fierce battle? Nobody   knows until they actually play the game.

Next, let’s take a look at Meiji University.

＊＊Meiji University＊＊

The traditional school which has supported Japanese Rugby　for long time. Nearly 80% of today’s spectators are also Meiji University fans. The thickness of the player layer is the best in Japan. The star player of the high school rugby is lined up.

The result of this season ended in the third place in the Kanto University Rivalry group. At the end of the season, they were defeated by rival schools Teikyo University and Waseda University in succession.

• University Championship

4th round: vs Tenri University – 27-17

Quarterfinal: vs Waseda University – 20-15

Semifinal: vs Tokai University – 39-24

This season, Meiji University defeated Tenri University, which they were defeated in last year’s University Championship, and then Waseda University, which they were defeated in this season’s rivalry. Will they be able to take revenge against Teikyo University in the final match, betting on the pride of Meiji University that they will not lose to the same opponent in a row?

Let the match begin.

5 minutes into the first half:

Teikyo University secures the ball at a lineout into enemy territory, develops the ball, and CTB Oshikawa cuts in for a try in the middle left side. The conversion goal failed, and Teikyo University took the lead at 5-0. Teikyo University, as usual, came out firing from the start.

12 minutes into the first half:

Teikyo University pushed forward in front of the enemy’s goal, and Meiji University defended well until the fifth attack, when Teikyo pushed to the right and WTB Shirakuni receives the ball on the outside of the goal. The conversion goal failed. The score was 10-0, and Teikyo University took the lead.

23 minutes into the first half:

As expected, Meiji University’s engine started to rev up around this point, and the two teams continued to play evenly. This was where Teikyo University hooker Era shines. Meiji University developed the ball from a lineout in enemy territory, and with a sign play prepared, SH Iinuma ran out and WTB Ishida cut in from the opposite direction. Teikyo University hooker Era made a great reaction and turned over Ishida, the trump card of Meiji University, with a single tackle. It didn’t lead to a score, but it was one of the highlights of the game.

26 minutes into the first half:

Meiji University’s continuous attacks were working around this time, and they started to break through Teikyo’s thick defensive network several times. Meiji’s backs players were able to get past several Teikyo defenders and came close to scoring again. However, each time, Teikyo University finally took the ball away from Meiji team and they missed their chances.

However, if they continue to miss scoring chances, the flow of the game will be taken over by the opponent.

32 min. of the first half:

Teikyo University continued their attack in the enemy territory, developed to the right, No.8 Okui broke through, and in front of the goal, made a perfect pass to WTB Shirakuni, who scored a try in the right side. The conversion goal failed. The score was 15-0, and Teikyo University took the lead.

Still, today Meiji University was unable to get their own ball in the final move of the attack. On the contrary, Teikyo University’s defenders crushed all of Meiji’s decisive chances. From the 35th minute of the second half onwards, such scenes were seen again and again.

40th minute:

 Wanting to score a try in the first half, Meiji University won the ball in a lineout and tried to advance with a maul, but could not make much progress. When Meiji’s CTB threw a long pass, Teikyo University’s WTB Shirakuni intercepted it. Then he scored a try in the middle of the right side. The conversion goal failed. This was the fourth failure in a row. However, the score was now 20-0, and Teikyo University had taken a big lead. Meiji University was now in a tight spot.

This was the end of the first half.

In this year’s University Championship, I have seen many teams that have succeeded in recovering from the second half. I would like to see Meiji University make a comeback worthy of the final game.

And now, the second half of the final game began.

8 minutes into the second half:

Meiji University, refreshed at halftime and looking to gain momentum, entered enemy territory and won the ball in a lineout, then proceeded to form a maul. As they moved forward in the maul, hooker Tamori rushed forward alone. He dragged two Teikyo players behind him and scored a try in the middle right side. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 20-7.

From here, Meiji University stepped up their offense and cut the gain line several times. They came close to scoring a try if they could get one more player over the line. However, Teikyo University’s hooker Era and No.8 Okui, who are the key players of Teikyo University’s defense, regained the ball at key points and did not allow Meiji University to score more points.

25 minutes into the second half:

Teikyo University broke the stalemate that had lasted for a while. Flanker Tongatama, who came on as a substitute midway through the second half, was an impact player and crossed the gain line several times. When Teikyo University came close to scoring, No.8 Okui broke through five Meiji defenders and scored a try in the left middle. Teikyo University SO Takamoto finally succeeded in the conversion goal, making the score 27-7, giving Teikyo University a 20-point lead.

33 minutes into the second half:

Meiji University’s slogan for this season is “Meiji Pride”. Not to be defeated, Meiji University closed in on Teikyo University’s goal and persisted with a series of FW side attacks. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 27-14.

However, this was the final score of the day. Teikyo University won this season’s National University Rugby Championship. It was their 10th victory in total.

This is the end of the season for the university rugby, but after this, the JAPAN　RUGBY　LEAGUE ONE will start. I would like to go to the stadium and watch the game as much as possible.

＊＊　Jersey Collection 53　＊＊

Replica model of the France jersey from the 3rd RWC in 1995. I got it on Mercari for 3,980 yen. This jersey is a typical jersey that has a very different valuation between overseas and domestic auctions. Overseas, the price is over 400 euros, but in Japan, the price is at most 4,000 yen (= 40 euros). There is a person selling this jersey at a Japanese auction with a price of 50,000 yen, but after two years, no one is buying it.

(written by Azul, January 13th, 2022)

Rugby, one of the professional sports in Japan, has started as “Japan Rugby League One” from 2022.

In comparison to the Top League era

In the Top League, 16 teams participate, and in League One, all 12 teams participate.

In the Top League era, each team played 11 matches a year in a league format. The top eight teams then played in a tournament to determine the winner.

In League One, each team plays six games a year in the Home & Away format. The top four teams will then play in a tournament to determine the winner.

There is a plan for the winning team to play an exchange match with the winning club of the league overseas (details to be determined).

Until 2020, the Sunwolves from Japan participated in the Super Rugby of the southern hemisphere in parallel with the Top League, but this team has now disappeared.

The Sunwolves’ participation in Super Rugby, the world’s premier professional league, had the role of strengthening the Japanese national rugby team, but with the disappearance of the Sunwolves, this role has come to be demanded of League One. As a result, we have signed a number of famous overseas players to help raise the level of professional rugby league in Japan.

Each team has many players at the national level, and fans can expect to see high-level matches. In League One, each team will be required to make a community-based sales effort as an independently financed professional team rather than a corporate team as in the past.

On January 7, the opening game of the League One season was scheduled to be played at the National Stadium in Tokyo, between Kubota Spears Funabashi-Tokyo Bay and Saitama Wild Knights. However, the game was cancelled due to the outbreak of a number of new corona cases in the Wild Knights. Therefore, the next day, January 8, became the actual opening day of the League One. I went to watch the game between Tokyo Suntory Sangorias and Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo at the Tokyo Stadium in Chofu City.

The photo above is a publicity poster that was posted at Fuchu Station. Both Sungoliath and Brave Lupus have their training grounds in Fuchu City, so this game is also called the Fuchu Derby. Both teams are popular, so we expect a good game.

The game was scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. Before the game, I stopped by Fuchu Station to make a New Year’s visit. Fuchu City has the historic Okunitama Shrine in front of the station, and there was a good crowd on January 8th.

I went there to pray for good health and safety in my home. Afterwards, I drew a fortune at the shrine. The number that came out of the box was “44,” and I had a bad feeling about it. Because I had gotten a “bad” fortune before, and had gotten very sick that year. When I exchanged this “44” for a fortune, the fortune in the picture below came out.

Oh, as long as it’s not “bad luck,” I’m fine. Thank goodness.

Now, let’s go to Tokyo Stadium. I found something interesting in front of the station. The mayor of Fuchu City is a former member of Rikkyo University’s rugby club, and the city is planning to revitalize itself with rugby as “Rugby City Fuchu. There was a commemorative monument in front of the station.

Then, I took the Keio Line from Fuchu Station to Tobitakyu Station. This was the main venue for the RWC 2019, and I watched many games at the Tokyo Stadium. More than two years later, I was able to watch rugby games at this stadium again. Thanks to the new corona outbreak, the rugby boom in Japan has been put on hold.

In 2019, the RWC flag was flown at the ticket gate of Tobitakyu Station, but now the flag of FC Tokyo, a J1 League soccer team based in this stadium, is hung. FC Tokyo’s flag is now hanging.

This square in front of the station was crowded with foreign supporters during the RWC, but as expected, not so many spectators have come.

Still, it was nostalgic to walk along this street. It took me about seven or eight minutes to get to the stadium.

As I was walking, I noticed that the city of Chofu changed the manhole cover to RWC use to commemorate the RWC.

The Tokyo Stadium came into view. It’s quite crowded. Today’s game is between two teams that both play at Tokyo Stadium, but today is treated as a home game for Sungoliath.

Fortunately, the temperature today was 13 degrees Celsius and there was no wind, making it feel like spring. That’s great for the spectators.

The stadium is usually named Ajinomoto Stadium, but during the RWC, we couldn’t use the corporate name, so we called it Tokyo Stadium.

Here are the opposing teams for this match.

＊＊　Tokyo Suntory Sangorias　＊＊

Runner-up in the Top League last season. They are the candidates for the League One championship this season, with nine current Japanese national team players, two Australian national team players, and one New Zealand national team player. The team has a strong attacking core in both FW and BK, and boasts the No.1 attacking power in the league.

＊＊　Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo　＊＊

Ranked 9th in the Top League last season. A prestigious team that has won the Japan Championship six times. The team has four current Japanese national team players. The team’s color is based on the breakthrough power of its powerful FW players. In this match, the team is looking for the humiliation of losing last year’s match.

Entering Tokyo Stadium for the first time in two years and four months, the excitement of the 2019 RWC still comes back to me. I am happy to be able to watch the match here again.

Before the start of the match, League One was declared open by President Tamazuka. Since yesterday’s opening game was cancelled, the opening declaration was made at this day’s game.

The main attraction for the spectators was the appearance of NZ’s Mackenzie, who is the highlight of the season. At 177cm tall and 78kg, he is small for a rugby player, but he is one of the core players of the All Blacks, so his every move attracted a lot of attention. The number of visitors for the day was announced to be 10,075.

The match kicked off at 15:30.

Suntory Sungoliath, the home team, took the lead in the match. From a ruck in enemy territory, the ball went right through FB McKenzie to WTB Ozaki who scored a try on the left side. McKenzie’s first conversion goal was missed, but the score was 5-0 in favor of Sungoliath.

Eight minutes into the first half, Toshiba Brave Lupus struck back. From a lineout in enemy territory, a series of attacks led by the FW team resulted in a try by 19-year-old rookie LO Deans, who dragged an opponent under the goal posts. Deans is a 2-meter LO, a long-awaited player for the Japanese national team. He is only 19 years old, but I hope that he will continue to grow and become a key player for the national team.

After the try, the Blave Lupus scored a conversion goal to make the score 5-7 in favor of Japan.

In the 15th minute of the first half, the Sungoliath got a PG opportunity, and FB McKenzie scored his first goal in Japan. The score was 8-7, a one-point lead for the Sungoliath. The game was a scrappy affair, with both sides exchanging points.

Here is a quick look at the scoring sequence.

17th minute: Brave Lupas’s new LO Pierce kicked the ball over the goal line for a try. The conversion goal is successful. The score is 8-14.

After this, both teams scored a PG. The score was 11-17.

26th minute: Sungoliath attacked, WTB Ozaki broke away from the right side, and №8 McMahon scored a try. The conversion goal was successful. The score is now 18-17 and Sungoliath has turned the game around.

28min: Sungoliath deploys BK in their own half, but the ball is dropped. Toshiba’s WTB Naikabura picked up the ball and scored a try. The conversion goal was also successful. The score was 18-24, and Toshiba was back on top.

The score was 18-24 in favor of Brave Lupas, and the two teams scored a PG each to take the lead at the end of the first half, 24-27.

In last year’s matchup, Brave Lupas suffered a humiliating defeat by nearly 70 points, so they were fired up for this game.

In the second half, Sungoliath’s No.8, McMahon, played a big role.

He scored consecutive tries in the 4th and 9th minutes to complete his hat-trick for the day. With his efforts, the score was 36-27 and Suntory took a 9-point lead.

Soon after, Brave Lupas’s LO Pierce scored his second try of the day to put Sungoliath on the back foot. However, Sungoliath’s attackers began to show their true colors. Brave Lupas scored a try and Sungoliath scored three more, and by the 29th minute of the second half, the score was 60-34.

After the game was almost decided, Toshiba scored two more tries and the final score was 60-46 in favor of Suntory in the opening game.

By the way, Suntory’s player base is too thick compared to other teams. Here are some of the problems I see.

＊Japan national team candidate CTB Kajimura, who used to be a member of Suntory, moved to Eagles in search of playing opportunities.

＊Japan national team CTB Nakano wants to gain experience as a 　　CTB, but the team is too thick. He has been playing as a WTB for a while. As a WTB, he moves like a WTB of the past, i.e., if he is a left WTB, he rarely moves to the other side. The modern WTB is required to appear in any direction, right or left, when the opportunity arises. Suntory’s CTB is Nakamura, a steadfast CTB for Japan, and another CTB is Australia national ‘s Kerevi, so there is no room for Nakano at the moment.

＊McKenzie, who joined from the NZ national team this season, is hoping to play SO for Japan, and has been a stalwart SO for the Chiefs in Super Rugby until last year. At 178 cm, McKenzie is more suited to the SO position. He throws a great pass that no one else can imitate, and I hope the Sungoliath players will learn that skill. Japanese BK players’ flying passes have a mountainous trajectory, but McKenzie’s passes fly in a straight line, even over long distances.

＊＊ Jersey Collection 52　＊＊

This is not a replica model, but it is a jersey created in France colors. adidas original product. The basic color is blue with the three lines of the French flag in blue, white and red. This item in the photo was purchased for 3,980 yen at Yahoo Auction. It is a used product. If you buy it new, it will cost you more than 10,000 yen.

(written by Azul, January 8th, 2022)

Happy New Year!

As the first rugby game of the year 2022, I went to see the semifinal game of the National University Rugby Championship at the New National Stadium in Tokyo on January 2nd. Today’s game started at 12:25. This is the second time I have been to the New National Stadium. I haven’t had much of a chance to visit this stadium since the Tokyo Olympics was a no-show game.

A brief overview of the new national stadium:.

The National Stadium was built as the main stadium for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, and was renovated after the 2020 Olympics were decided. The capacity is 60,000 people. The stadium has been renovated and the spectator seats are covered by a roof, so spectators can watch the games without rain gear, even in the rain, as long as it is not accompanied by wind. The nearest stations are Sendagaya Station and Shinanomachi Station on the JR Line and New National Stadium Station on the subway Oedo Line.

The capacity of the new national stadium is about three times that of the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, so when I got off at Sendagaya Station, a huge number of spectators streamed out of the ticket gates. From here to the stadium, it took about 7-8 minutes of slow walking to reach the entrance gate.

Here are the semi-final matchups for the day.

Game 1: Tokai University (Kanto University Rugby League Group 1st place) vs Meiji University (Kanto University Rugby Rivalry Group 3rd place)

And

Second match: Teikyo University (Kanto University Rugby Rivalry Group 1st place) vs Kyoto Sangyo University (Kansai University Rugby A Group 1st place)

In the semifinals of this year’s University Rugby Championship, the champions of the Kanto and Kansai leagues have won in order. In sports tournaments, it is said that the most heated games are played in the semifinals, and I hope to see heated games again this year.

Let’s start with the first game.

Here is a brief introduction of each team in the first match.

＊＊　Tokai University Rugby Club　＊＊

The Tokai University Rugby Team is ranked the first in the Kanto University Rugby League Group, and except for a draw against Nihon University, which is ranked second, they have come through without any problems. In the first game of the University Championship, they won in order against Keio University 27-12. They have a strong and stable FW team, and also have a BK team with the ability to develop, led by SO Muto. The school is a regular participant in the top ranks of recent university championships, but it has never won a championship.

＊＊　Meiji University Rugby Club　＊＊

Third place in the Kanto University Rugby rivalry group. In this season’s rivalry, they lost to Teikyo University and Waseda University consecutively at the end of the season, but as they entered the University Championship, they defeated last year’s student champion Tenri University and Waseda University, the second place team in the rivalry group, both in close games, and have gradually improved their team strength. In terms of popularity of domestic rugby, they are the twin peaks along with Waseda University.

Now, let’s kick off the first game. Tokai University took the lead. In the 11th minute of the first half, CTB Maruyama of Tokai University scored a PG in enemy territory to make the score 3-0, and Tokai University led by 3 points.

12 minutes into the first half. From a lineout in the enemy’s territory, Meiji University expanded to the right, and in the first attack, WTB Ishida easily got through and scored a try right under the goal post. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 3-7 in favor of Meiji University.

In the first half, Meiji University took control of the game, and in the 25th minute, WTB Ishida scored his second try of the day, and the conversion goal was also successful. In the 35th minute of the first half, Meiji University’s WTB Ishida again made a big gain to close in on the goal line, and No.8 Oishi scored a try. The conversion goal was successful. The first half ended with Meiji University taking a big lead, 21-3.

What happened to Tokai University? Are they still the champions of the Kanto University League? Looking at the games they’ve played so far against Meiji, it seems like they’re a much lower ranked opponent.

I don’t think my heart was in the right place, but Tokai University rallied in the second half.

In the first minute of the second half, Tokai University kicked off and went into enemy territory. CTB Itoh easily scored a try. The conversion goal was also successful, and Tokai University closed the gap to 15 points, 10-25.

Just three minutes later, in the fourth minute of the second half, Tokai University caught the ball kicked by Meiji University and passed it to SO Mutoh, who then launched a counter attack. Muto made a big gain and went deep into the enemy territory, but Meiji University’s defenders stopped Tokai University’s advance, but Tokai University developed to the left, and CTB Maruyama kicked a pass. Tokai University’s WTB Taniguchi caught the pass and scored a try in the left corner. After this try, CTB Maruyama scored a conversion goal from a difficult angle. The score was now 17-21, and Tokai University had closed the gap to 4 points.

Tokai University was finally showing its true potential. The game was now heating up.

Then, 9 minutes into the second half. Meiji University’s WTB Ishida, the main player who took a big lead in the first half, was injured and had to leave the field. This is not good for Meiji University.

In the 14th minute of the second half, it was a bit of a stalemate in front of Meiji University’s goal, but Tokai University’s SO Muto took advantage of an overlap in Meiji University’s defensive network and scored a great try. The conversion goal was also successful, making the score 24-21, and Tokai University finally turned the game around.

Then, 21 minutes into the second half. In the 21st minute of the second half, Meiji University scored a PG in enemy territory and CTB Hirose scored to tie the score. The score was now 24-24.

After 20 minutes of the second half, both teams finally started to show their true potential. This was a game worthy of the semi-finals. Both teams attacked each other consecutively, but their strength was so close to each other that they repeatedly took turns moving forward and entered a physically demanding stalemate.

In the 26th minute of the second half, Meiji University won the ball in a lineout and deployed it to the right, where SO Ito of Meiji University tried to break through. However, once the Tokai University defensive net loosened up, he rushed forward and scored a try in the middle right corner. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score became 24-31, and Meiji University took a 7-point lead again. In such a tightly contested game, a new hero emerges. Meiji’s Ito, who had been invisible in the past as he played the role of a link, did a great job at the critical moment. The morale of the entire Meiji University team was lifted.

In the 32nd minute of the second half, flanker Fukuda made a big gain on the left side from the center of the field. Then, expanding to the right, FB Kumoyama of Meiji University rolled an exquisite kick into the opponent’s in-goal. At the last moment, Meiji University CTB Saito held the kick in the in-goal, and the try was scored. The conversion goal was also successful. The score was 24-38, and Meiji University finally took a 14-point lead. Later in the game, Meiji University scored a PG after a foul by Tokai University, and CTB Hirose scored a try. The game was over. The final score was 24-39 in favor of Meiji University.

Meiji University has decided to advance to the finals of the University Championship. It was a good game, with both teams showing their strengths, as befitting a semifinal game.

After a 40-minute break, we went to watch the second game of the day.

Game 2: Teikyo University (Kanto University Rugby Group 1) vs Kyoto Sangyo University (Kansai University Rugby Group A)

The following is the progress of the match between the two schools so far.

＊＊ Teikyo University　＊＊

Teikyo University won the Kanto University Rivalry Group matches undefeated, and advanced to this semi-final with an overwhelming victory (76-24) over Doshisha University, ranked 4th in the Kansai League, in the quarterfinals of the University Championship. This season, Teikyo University has been flying from the first half of the game, and there has never been a game where the other team has taken the lead. The team’s colors are strong in both FW and BK, and there seems to be no weaknesses in the team. According to the pre-match predictions, there were many reports that Teikyo University would win in order. What kind of game will Teikyo University play this time against the champions of the Kansai League? Since the first game was a tumultuous affair, expectations are high for a heated battle.

＊＊ Kyoto Sangyo University　＊＊

The champion of the Kansai University Rugby League this season. Like Teikyo University, it is undefeated until the semifinals of the University Championship. However, while Teikyo has won many games by overwhelming margins, Kyoto Sangyo University has won many games by narrow margins. In terms of team tactics, all players in both FW and BK will continue to play through contact without hesitation in order to advance. The source of scoring is the PG of FB Takeshita.

The second match was about to begin. Teikyo University made the same start as usual, attacking from the beginning. In the 5th minute of the first half, Teikyo University attacked into the opponent’s territory and developed to the right, and finally FB Yanaka scored a try. The conversion goal failed, and Teikyo University scored first, 5-0.

In the 12th minute of the first half, Kyoto Sangyo University scored a PG goal from inside the opponent’s territory, and FB Takenaka scored steadily. The score was 5-3, and Teikyo University led by two points.

Next, in the 20th minute of the first half. FB Taninaka drew the opponents back, and WTB Shirakuni made a brilliant switch play to score a try in the middle left. The conversion failed. The score is 10-3, and Teikyo University leads by 7 points.

23 minutes left in the first half. Kyoto Sangyo University had another PG opportunity in the opponent’s territory, and FB Takeshita scored. The score was now 10-6, and Kyoto Sangyo University was trailing by 4 points.

Up to this point, as predicted before the game, Teikyo University was ahead in the early stages of the game, and Kyoto Sangyo University was catching up by accumulating PG scores. However, from this point on, the potential of the Kyoto Sangyo University players began to awaken due to the attacks of Teikyo University, the leading candidate for the championship. In the previous games, Teikyo University players rarely lost a match. However, the Kyoto Sangyo University players, famous for their intense training, gradually outperformed the Teikyo University players in individual contact play.

29th minute of the first half. From a scrum in front of the goal, CTB Vakalahi tried to break through the center of the field and was stopped by a tackle, but he broke through again and scored a try by the goal post. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 10-13, giving Kyoto Sangyo University a three-point lead.

At this point, Kyoto Sangyo University started to overwhelm Teikyo University in the game development, with 70% of the ball control. Teikyo University had never played against a team that was so strong in individual contact play. I don’t know why the Kyoto Sangyo University players awakened, but perhaps this is the magic of the semifinals.

In the 38th minute of the first half, FB Takeshita scored his third PG of the day for Kyoto Sangyo University, making the score 10-16. In the closing minutes, Kyoto Sangyo University made a lineout deep in enemy territory and advanced by mauling. In the end, prop Hirano scored a try in front of the goal. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 10-23, giving Kyoto Sangyo University a 13-point lead at the end of the first half. From the middle of the first half, the momentum of the game was in Kyoto Sangyo University’s hands.

The way they scored the last try of the first half, it was as if Teikyo University had become a lower-ranked team. Teikyo University was in a tight spot. Do they still have the power to turn the game around like they did against Meiji University in the first game?

However, just like Tokai University’s comeback from the second half in the first game, we have seen several times in tournament games where a team that was inferior to the other team comes back to life in the second half.

Then, the second half started.

Teikyo University was the first to score. Five minutes into the second half, Teikyo University won the right to take a penalty kick in enemy territory, and SO Takamoto scored to make it three points in favor of Teikyo University. The score was 13-23 in favor of Teikyo University, and they were up by 10 points.

In the 9th minute of the second half, Teikyo University won the ball in a lineout in front of the enemy’s goal, and launched a maul attack, their specialty. Kyoto Sangyo University’s FW put up a strong fight against this attack. Teikyo University’s mauling move was stopped by Kyoto Sangyo University’s FW, but they gradually made progress. As Teikyo University approached the goal line, hooker Era broke free and scored a try in the left corner. The conversion goal after the try was a difficult one from the left corner, but SO Takamoto successfully converted it. The score was now 20-23, and Teikyo University had closed the gap to three points over Kyoto Sangyo University.

With this, I thought the game would gradually move at Teikyo University’s pace. However, Kyoto Sangyo University was strong. Their fighting spirit never waned. From here, they started to regain their footing. Once in enemy territory, they continued to dominate the ball in dense battles. Kyoto Sangyo University also gradually pushed Teikyo University in a maul. In the 16th minute of the second half, Kyoto Sangyo University’s WTB Funabiki received the ball near the center of the enemy area, and despite being surrounded by six Teikyo defenders, he broke through to the center of the field and advanced 2 meters to the goal post. Kyoto Sangyo University WTB Funabiki ran hard and the stadium erupted in cheers. Finally, he connected with prop Hirano to score a try in the middle of the field. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score was 20-30, giving Kyoto Sangyo University a 10-point lead over Teikyo University again.

Kyoto Sangyo University’s unflagging determination to win this game gave me goose bumps. Will Kyoto Sangyo University be able to win this game?

Then, 20 minutes into the second half. Teikyo University introduced Hosoki, who is said to be the No.1 student prop, as an impact player. His appearance made us feel that rugby is a sport of fighting spirit. The expressions on the faces of the Teikyo University FW players changed with Hosoki’s appearance. Hosoki has a great deal of trust from his teammates.

From this point on, Teikyo foolishly chose to use scrums in their set plays. The scrums, which had been evenly matched until then, began to show a clear advantage with the addition of Hosoki.

Then, in the 64th minute of the second half. Teikyo moved forward at once with a scrum, and Teikyo’s SH Lee picked up the spilled ball and scored a try in the middle left corner. The conversion goal was also successful, making the score 27-30. Teikyo University was again up by three points.

With the arrival of Hosoki, Teikyo University’s fighting spirit was infectious, and the entire team was filled with energy.

In the 31st minute of the second half, Teikyo University once again gained the upper hand in the scrum and earned the right to play PG in front of the enemy goal. SO Takamoto scored steadily, and the score was finally tied at 30-30.

Even if the game ended in a draw, the team with the most tries would win, according to the tournament rules, so Teikyo University had a mental advantage.

With Teikyo dominating in the scrum, they pushed the game forward in the opponent’s territory. The balance of power between the two sides was broken in the 38th minute of the second half. Teikyo University made a series of attacks in front of the goal and developed to the right, and finally WTB Tuinakauvadra scored a try in the right corner. The conversion goal was also successful, and the score became 37-30, and Teikyo University finally turned the game around just before the end. Teikyo University finally made a comeback just before the end of the game, and the game ended. Teikyo University will advance to the final game on January 9.

Both teams played a great game with a lot of spirit. It was a good game that showed the full potential of both teams. I believe that Teikyo University was able to perform so well because of this game against Kyoto Sangyo University.

The pairing for the University Championship final on January 9 is Teikyo University versus Meiji University. This was a showdown between two teams belonging to the Kanto University rivalry group. Will Teikyo University regain its position as the university champion for the first time in four years? Or will Meiji University get their revenge for three consecutive games? I’m getting excited now.

＊＊　Jerseys Collection 51　＊＊

This is a replica jersey of the 2012-13 French national rugby team uniform, made by Adidas. I think it’s relatively easy to get this jersey since it’s pretty common. I wear it mostly when I play futsal.