Japan: Sekisui Challengers secure Rice Bowl tournament spot with win over Fujifilm Ebina
In a crucial matchup in the X1 Super, the Sekisui Challengers (4-1) defeated the Fujifilm Ebina Minerva AFC (1-4) 30-13, confirming their advance to the Rice Bowl tournament. The game was competitive through three quarters, but Sekisui showcased their strength in the final quarter to pull away decisively.
Strong start for Sekisui
The Challengers struck first in the opening quarter when quarterback Garrett Saffron connected with wide receiver Boogie Knight for a 52-yard touchdown pass, giving Sekisui an early 7-0 lead. They extended their advantage with a field goal from Toshiki Sato, making it 10-0. Fujifilm Ebina responded with a 3-yard touchdown run from running back Derek Akira Williams, but Sekisui maintained a 13-6 lead at halftime.
Fujifilm fights back
The second half began with Fujifilm tying the game at 13-13, thanks to a 1-yard touchdown run by quarterback Chevan Cordeiro. However, Sekisui quickly regained the lead with a touchdown run from running back Takumi “Fred” Teshikawara. The Challengers continued to build their lead in the fourth quarter, with Sato kicking his third field goal of the day and running back Shu Endo adding another touchdown to seal the victory.
Key player performances
Saffron had an impressive game, completing 13 of 18 passes for 200 yards and one touchdown, while Knight was a standout receiver with six catches for 136 yards and a touchdown. On the ground, Endo led Sekisui with 69 rushing yards and a touchdown. For Fujifilm, Cordeiro completed 4 of 11 passes for 59 yards and added a rushing touchdown, while Williams contributed 40 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Looking ahead
With this victory, the Sekisui Challengers have solidified their position in the Rice Bowl tournament, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Meanwhile, Fujifilm Ebina will need to regroup and address their struggles as they look to improve in the remaining games of the season.
Source: XLeague
