Japan: Shimizu S-Pulse back in third place

(GSM) – Shimizu S-Pulse remain alive in the Japanese title race following a 2-0 win over Kawasaki Frontale in Sunday’s J League action.

Hosts Shimizu needed a victory to recover their third spot and remain at five points from leaders Nagoya Grampus.

The match at Shizuoka had been under way for 16 minutes when the home team won a penalty which was converted by midfielder Jungo Fujimoto.

Two minutes after the interval, Shinji Okazaki doubled the advantage. The two-goal gap was enough for Shimizu to secure the three points.

On Saturday, Nagoya Grampus successfully defended their lead in a home match with Kyoto Sanga, 1-0, with Mu Kanasaki scoring the only goal in the 21st minute.

Second place Cerezo Osaka made no mistakes either, beating Omiya Ardija 2-0 with goals from Hiroshi Kiyotake and former Malaga striker Adriano.