First, after warming up by circling the pitch, the players engaged in a warm-up menu combining passing and dribbling. Goalkeepers Oki and Kawamata performed various catching drills under the guidance of Goalkeeper Coach Sato.
After the warm-up, the players embarked on a tough circuit training. This menu required a wide variety of footwork, such as pulling a resistance band, sprinting over hurdles, and weaving through poles. Finally, they received a pass from the coach and shot at the goal defended by the goalkeeper. The players ran long distances and looked pained. Coach Satouchi encouraged the players, saying, "It's just like a match! Focus on accuracy even when it's tough!" for this drill, which aims to help them shoot accurately under duress.
The morning practice concluded in just over an hour. The players, manager, and coaches returned to the accommodation by bus. After a meeting, they departed for the stadium again. They arrived around 12:30 PM and began preparations for the match against Tokushima, which kicked off at 2:00 PM.
With many spectators filling the main stand, the match against Tokushima kicked off at 2:00 PM. Antlers, with a rotated squad after the matches against Tegevajaro Miyazaki and Kanazawa, spent a long time allowing Tokushima ball possession. However, they maintained their concentration and responded, primarily led by Shoji, who constantly issued instructions from the backline.
Although Tokushima scored the opening goal midway through the first half, the equalizer came in the 34th minute. Uchida, who had the ball on the right wing, sent a pinpoint cross, and Tanaka, who darted into the goal area, scored with a diving header, making it 1-1. They drew level and ended the first half.
After halftime, Antlers replaced 10 players, with only Kubota remaining, for the second half. Rookie Yamaguchi actively called for the ball upfront and made several dribbling breakthroughs. In the midfield, Ogasawara continued to direct his teammates with loud shouts, demonstrating an overwhelming presence. Second-year player Oda also received detailed instructions from Manager Oiwa and showed intense play both defensively and offensively.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw. Although they couldn't score an additional goal, there were moments where they pressed close to the goal with brilliant teamwork, making it 90 minutes that revealed both achievements and challenges. With this, all external matches in the Miyazaki training camp have concluded.
After the match, visitors from the hometown, including Kashima City Mayor Nishikiori, and our sponsors came to encourage us. Player representative Shoji gave a speech, and we received many gifts. Also, we received the annual powerful cheer from LIXIL Kyushu branch, and Antlers players Ueda, Anzai, and Machida returned the cheer.
Tomorrow is finally the last day of this year's Miyazaki training camp. The team will return to Kashima after morning practice.
Shoji:
"Of course, four titles this season! It's easy to say, but I want to show that attitude on the pitch. You are all part of our family, and rather than just asking for your support, I want to say, 'Please fight with us.' So, please fight with us in every match this year. Thank you."
Inukai:
"I think everyone is aiming for the championship this year, so I will do my best to be a part of that strength. Please continue to support us."