Nagoya Grampus’ Kennedy maintains two-goal lead in J-League Golden Boot race

Nagoya Gramous striker Josh Kennedy has maintained his two-goal lead over Jubilo Iwata’s Ryoichi Maeda and Gamba Osaka’s Shoki Hiari in the race for the J-League Golden Boot.

The Australian international equalised for Nagoya with a 34th minute goal after they fell behind at Albirex Niigata but it was the only joy the league leaders had on the day as they eventually went down 4-1. Despite the loss, they remain clear of Kashima Antlers who could only manage a 1-1 draw at Shonan Bellmare.

Elsewhere in Japan, Gamba Osaka jumped to third with a 5-1 thrashing of Omiya Ardija thanks to a Hirai double whilst Maeda scored for Jubilo but had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

Vegalta Sendai came from behind to defeat FC Tokyo 3-2, Urawa Reds won 2-0 against Cerezo Osaka, Kawasaki Frontale enjoyed a similar scoreline against Montedio Yamagata at homer, Shimizu S-Pulse scored early only to see Kyoto Sanga grab a late equaliser and Yokohama F. Marinos managed a 1-0 win over nine-man Vissel Kobe.