Kagoshima Stay Top Despite First Loss; Four Clubs Close Gap on Leaders [Monthly Report (October): MEIJI YASUDA J3]

Matchweeks 9 to 14 of the MEIJI YASUDA J3 LEAGUE were played in October.

Kagoshima's unbeaten start to the season came to an end with defeat to Matsumoto in Matchweek 10. They also lost to FC Osaka in Matchweek 13, but still recorded three wins during the month, including an important victory over title rivals Ehime in Matchweek 11, to retain top spot.

Ehime suffered back-to-back defeats in their final two matches of the month and finished October with three wins and three losses. Defensive weaknesses were a concern, with the team conceding four goals on two occasions.

FC Osaka also lost ground after an unbeaten start had taken them to third place at the end of September. Their first defeat came against Sagamihara in Matchweek 9, followed by losses to Kitakyushu in Matchweek 11 and Gifu in Matchweek 14. Although they beat leaders Kagoshima in Matchweek 13, three defeats during October saw them slip to eighth.

Meanwhile, Yamaguchi, Nara, Gifu and Sagamihara each recorded four wins during the month to close in on the leaders. Kumamoto also gained ground on the leading pack with three consecutive victories between Matchweeks 11 and 13.

Ryukyu enjoyed a strong October, winning four straight matches from Matchweek 11. Kitakyushu also recorded four victories, climbing from 17th at the end of September to 12th.

Tochigi SC responded to their Matchweek 10 defeat against Yamaguchi by changing managers. Under interim manager Yoshimi Hamasaki, they showed signs of improvement, particularly in defence. Their recovery included an impressive victory over high-flying Ehime in Matchweek 14.

Shiga endured a difficult month after finishing September in ninth place. They failed to register a win in October and dropped to 17th. Kochi also went winless, recording one draw and five defeats, and ended the month bottom of the table.

MEIJI YASUDA J3 LEAGUE Results (October)