Draw made for 2014-15 opening stage after NTT Comms remain in Top League

TOKYO (FEB. 22 ) – The 2013-14 Japan Rugby Top League season formally came to an end Saturday with NTT Communications Shining Arcs winning the final promotion/relegation playoff game of the season.

NTT Comms, who finished the regular season in 13th spot beat Top East runners-up Yokogawa Musashino Atlastars 59-7 to ensure they remain in the top flight. The victory also paved the way for the draw for the opening stage of the 2014-15 season to be made.

This year’s champions Panasonic Wild Knights were drawn in Pool A alongside Toshiba Brave Lupus, Yamaha Jubilo, NEC Green Rockets, Kubota Spears, Toyota Shokki Shuttles, NTT Comms and Fukuoka Sanix Blues.

Pool B will contain TL runners-up Suntory Sungoliath along with Kobe Kobelco Steelers, Toyota Verblitz, Canon Eagles, Kintetsu Liners, Ricoh Black Rams, Coca-Cola West Red Sparks and NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes.

At Kumagaya Rugby Ground, NTT Comms never trailed after Kaufusi Richard touched down in the opening minute.

The 25-year-old centre went on to add two more tries, flyhalf Yuki Kawamoto added a try and seven conversions and there was also a five-pointer for former All Black Jason Eaton.

NTT Comms’ victory means there is just one change to the make-up of the league next season with Top Kyushu champions Sanix replacing Kyuden Voltex.