J. League in the Covid-19 era - S-Pulse vs G. Osaka

BARRY WRITES...

What's this? The first original UKU blog post in 4 years? It may have taken a pandemic, but these pages were in danger of disappearing in a cloud of their own ennui, so we'll take it. It's not that we've been supporting any less of have been inactive, it's just that Twitter took over.

In hindsight it's a shame I didn't make more of an effort. Especially in 2016, as that was a hell of ride. It included some phenomenal moments, not least of which the 4-3 win away at JEF United. Having led 2-0, we went down to 10 men, and with 6 minutes left, we fell behind. 90^th and 94^th minute goals snatched an incredible victory, and provided much needed momentum for our promotion bid. This culminated successfully down in Tokushima, and I recently posted an article from the time.

Clearly, a decent amount has sadly been lost through over-reliance on Twitter. So while this isn't going to be the first of a return to weekly updates, I do aim to try and keep things ticking over a little better. And with that in mind, let's talk about THE VIRUS.

J. League and Coronavirus

I love our stadium. Of course I'm biased, but I'd say it's one of only a handful of stadia that still looks pretty great, even when empty.

It was in this state that the J. League's grounds found themselves when games re-started recently. As around the world, cardboard supporters, plastic sheets, piped in crowd noise, and other initiatives attempted to fill the gaping void created by a lack of fans. All better than nothing, but it's like trying to fill a swimming pool with a wet sponge. Fans are the heart and soul of football, and this weekend has seen the first tentative steps towards a return to normality.

Japan hasn't dealt with CV19 perfectly, nowhere has, but they've done a much better job than some. As such we're at a stage where people are starting to return to the stadiums, albeit in limited numbers, and with various rules aimed at preventing virus spread.

The Rules for S-Pulse v G. Osaka

First of all, the following are asked to stay home:

• Those exhibiting symptoms, or who have come into contact with those who are
• Those who have returned from overseas in the last 14 days, or those who have come into contact with those who have

Those attending games have to abide by the following:

• Masks to be worn
• All should remain at least 1 metre apart, if possible 2 metres
• No handshakes, hugging, or high fives
• No shouting, singing, chanting or whistling
• No megaphones or drums
• No flag waving, or scarf twirling (and I love a bit twirling, me)

Within the stadium, the following rules are in place:

• Banners can be hung with prior arrangement
• No areas for smoking
• Food and soft drinks are on sale, BUT!
• No alcohol on sale, or to be brought in :(
• Pulchan and co will not be doing the rounds - they will only appear on the pitch
• No away fans

This isn't a full list, but covers the main points. As is obvious, this will impact on the S-Pulse experience (as it will most clubs). A lack of samba, kachiloco and group hugs are just something we have to put up with until things are back to normal. We'll get there, and when we do we shouldn’t forget these tough times.

2020 So Far

Our season hasn't started especially well. Played 3, lost 3. Scored 2, conceded 7. Far from ideal, but then Kashima are worse off, having scored one less. Sagan Tosu have scored a big fat zero. So, you know. Could be worse.

The opening game against FC Tokyo was so long ago, I barely remember it. I did manage to catch most of the Nagoya and C. Osaka matches, though. Nagoya's second was offside, but that's life. It was close, but I'd take the odd close call going against you than the farce that VAR has become in many parts of the world.

A recurrent theme has been failed attempts to play intricately out from the back. Where this fell down on numerous occasions was a lack of precision, or not releasing the ball before being closed down. This resulted in several chances for the opposition, and if we continue to make the same mistakes, this will cost us goals over the season.

Our second half in Osaka was a vast improvement on the first (we barely left our own half) but we've not been very inspiring so far. There's been flashes, for sure. Our goal against Nagoya was beautiful, and the type of sweeping football we love to see, but it's been the exception to the rule. Any new managers takes time to get things working, so no need to panic yet (especially as there's no relegation this season!), but let's hope things start clicking into place over the next few weeks.

The games are coming thick and fast now, and they will right the way through until December. You know there’s not going to be a dull moment – when is there ever with this club!? G. Osaka have conceded 5 in three games, so they're as good a team as any to play as we try and find our scoring boots.

The J. League has upped its international game of late, with a much-improved Twitter feed. They have a proper little service going on now, and coupled with some games streamed live, and highlights made available, they've arrived in the digital age. I respect that they bother, because the market for Japanese club football in the English speaking world is tiny, and not growing. It's about as niche as you can get. For those of us they do love it though, it’s great to see a bit of investment there. Long may it continue.

Well, roll on Sunday and match day 4 - our first win is not far away. I can feel it!