Fukushima United took on Ehime FC in an exciting J2 League matchup on Saturday. Fukushima entered the game looking to bounce back from a close loss in their previous match, while Ehime was hoping to build on a big win.
It was a fast-paced game from the opening whistle, with both teams looking to attack early. Ehime had the first good chance in the 12th minute with a shot from the edge of the box that was well saved by the Fukushima keeper. Fukushima answered back five minutes later with a header off the crossbar following a well-worked set piece.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute when Fukushima's spearhead striker collected the ball just outside the box and uncorked a bending shot into the far corner of the net for one of the goals of the season so far. Ehime pushed hard for an equalizer before the break but could not find a way past the solid Fukushima defense and resolute goalkeeping.
Halftime saw the teams retire with Fukushima holding the 1-0 advantage. The second half started at the same frantic pace as the first with neither team content to sit back and protect their goal advantage or try to level the scoreline. In the 54th minute, Ehime had their best chance of the half on a loose ball inside the six yard box but could not turn it towards goal under pressure.
Just past the hour mark, Fukushima doubled their lead with a curled shot into the top corner after a slick team passing move to shift the ball from flank to flank. Ehime responded with increased urgency, bombarding the Fukushima penalty area with crosses and efforts from outside the box. Their perseverance paid off with 15 minutes left as they pulled one back from close range after the ball bounced loose during a lengthy goalmouth scramble.
💥The storming comeback was on! 💥 Ehime threw everything forward looking for an equalizer. But despite intense late pressure, Fukushima was able to cling on for the 2-1 win and return to winning ways.🙌 The three points lifted them further up the table as the promotion race heats up, while Ehime will look to regroup from the frustrating defeat. Up next for both sides are more tough league encounters that will go a long way in shaping their seasons. - https://mbscore.tv/match/fukushima-united-vs-ehime-18778035