Nagoya Grampus crash at Albirex Niigata

(GSM) – Nagoya Grampus wasted a chance to extend their lead in the Japanese J League, suffering a painful 4-1 defeat at Albirex Niigata.

After Kashima Antlers’ goalless draw at Shonan Bellmare a day earlier, Nagoya had a perfect opportunity to take their lead to a very comfortable 11 points.

It soon became clear that it wouldn’t be an easy task at Albirex, who took the lead with a goal from Brazilian Marcio Richardes in the 31st minute.

Joshua Kennedy leveled three minutes later but goals from Yuta Mikado and Hideo Oshima then handed the hosts a 3-1 lead late in the first half.

Nagoya knew that a come-back was practically impossible after Naoshi Nakamura received his second yellow card in the 53rd minute. Another 20 minutes later. Marcio Richardes netted his second for a 4-1 final result.

The defeat won’t hurt Nagoya’s title plans, as they are still eight points ahead of their nearest rivals.