Japan: Elecom Kobe Finies secure playoff spot with 27-20 win over All Mitsubishi Lions

In a crucial matchup at Ebina Sports Park, the Elecom Kobe Finies (2-3-1) edged the All Mitsubishi Lions (1-5) 27-20, clinching a spot in the Rice Bowl Tournament playoffs. This win marked a significant turnaround for Elecom Kobe, who needed this victory to keep their postseason hopes alive.

First half sees back-and-forth scoring
The game started with both teams trading blows. Elecom Kobe struck first with a touchdown pass from quarterback David Pindell to Takuya Kawase. However, All Mitsubishi quickly responded, recovering a fumble for a touchdown and then taking the lead with a 42-yard touchdown run by running back Tetsuya Nakano. Elecom Kobe managed to keep it close, scoring a field goal just before halftime, leaving them trailing 14-13 at the break.

All Mitsubishi extends lead
In the third quarter, All Mitsubishi extended their lead to 20-13 with a 55-yard touchdown pass from Nao Mizukoshi to wide receiver Masaki Isa. It seemed like All Mitsubishi was in control, but Elecom Kobe was just getting started.

Elecom Kobe rallies in the fourth
The final quarter showcased Elecom Kobe’s resilience. Pindell led a determined drive, tying the game with a 7-yard touchdown run. With the momentum shifting, Pindell then connected with Daiki Uchida on a crucial fourth-down conversion, setting up a 12-yard touchdown pass to Teruto Tsurudome, putting Elecom Kobe ahead 27-20.

Defensive stand seals the victory
As All Mitsubishi attempted to respond, Elecom Kobe’s defense stepped up, with defensive lineman Colby Campbell sacking Mizukoshi to halt their drive. This defensive stand secured the victory for Elecom Kobe, who finished the game strong.

Statistical highlights
David Pindell had an impressive outing, completing 19 of 28 passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown. For All Mitsubishi, Nakano rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown, and Mizukoshi threw for 121 yards and a touchdown.

With this victory, the Elecom Kobe Finies secured their place in the playoffs, setting up a challenging matchup against the Obic Seagulls in the first round of the Rice Bowl Tournament.

Source: XLeague