Yamaha See Lead at Top of Standings Cut by Suntory

OSAKA (Oct. 22) – Yamaha Jubilo saw their lead at the top of the Japan Rugby Top League reduced to just one point on Saturday.

Katsuyuki Kiyomiya’s men downed NTT Communications Shining Arcs 21-14 at Hanazono Stadium on the back of tries by forwards Duke Krishnan, Kyosuke Horie and Yuya Odo.

But two tries from NTT Comms No. 8 Amanaki Leilei Mafi ensured Yamaha were unable to leave Osaka with five points, just the second time this season they have failed to pick up a bonus point.

Earlier at the first game of the doubleheader in Osaka, Suntory Sungoliath ran in eight tries to beat Toyota Industries Shuttles 52-15.

Takaaki Nakazuru ran in two tries in the first half and two in the second as Suntory scored 33 unanswered points after the break.

Ryoto Nakamura weighed in with a brace and Kosei Ono kicked six conversions.

Kobe Kobelco Steelers finished a sad week off on a high with a 37-24 win over Honda Heat to remain in third spot on 33 points.

On Thursday, former captain and coach Seiji Hirao passed away at the age of 53. But the Steelers responded by scoring six tries through six different players, with Codey Rei adding two conversions and a penalty to his five-pointer.

Panasonic Wild Knights are fourth in the standings on 29 points after they beat Canon Eagles 29-16 with Taqele Naiyaravoro grabbing a hat-trick of tries.

Munakata Sanix Blues have 21 points – one behind NTT Comms, who are currently fifth – thanks to a 20-15 victory over Kintetsu Liners.

Round 8 concludes Sunday with three further games.