Japan: Sekisui Challengers edge Fujitsu Frontiers in thrilling comeback win

In a nail-biting finish, the Sekisui Challengers (5-1) defeated the Fujitsu Frontiers (4-2) 34-32 in a dramatic XLeague game that saw the lead change hands six times. This victory secured Sekisui a spot in the postseason, finishing third overall in the standings.

Back-and-forth battle
The game kicked off with both teams trading blows. Fujitsu struck first with a touchdown pass from Tsubasa Takagi to Grant Summer, but Sekisui quickly responded with a touchdown pass from Garrett Saffron to Ethan Kimura. The first half ended with Sekisui holding a narrow 14-13 lead after Saffron rushed for a touchdown.

In the second half, Sekisui extended their lead with another touchdown pass from Saffron to Boogie Knight, showcasing their offensive prowess. However, Fujitsu wasn’t about to back down. They countered with a 41-yard touchdown reception by Summer and a touchdown pass to Riki Matsui, keeping the game tight.

Dramatic finish
As the fourth quarter unfolded, Fujitsu regained the lead with a touchdown pass to Summer, making it 32-28. With just 57 seconds left on the clock, Sekisui found themselves down by four points, starting their drive from their own 26-yard line. Saffron, who had an outstanding game, connected with Knight for a 20-yard touchdown pass with just nine seconds remaining, sealing the victory for Sekisui.

Statistical highlights
Garrett Saffron had a stellar performance, completing 27 of 32 passes for 349 yards and four touchdowns, with Boogie Knight being his favorite target, racking up 11 receptions for 215 yards and three touchdowns. On the ground, Saffron added 45 rushing yards and a touchdown.

For Fujitsu, Tsubasa Takagi completed 20 of 23 passes for 260 yards and four touchdowns, while Trashaun Nixon was a force on the ground, rushing for 171 yards on 17 carries. Grant Summer also had a standout game, catching five passes for 112 yards and three touchdowns.

With this thrilling win, the Sekisui Challengers are set to face the Tokyo Gas Creators in the first round of the Rice Bowl Tournament, while the Fujitsu Frontiers will take on the Nojima Sagamihara Rise.

Source: XLeague