Intro
3 wins in a row on the road for FC Ryukyu. FC Ryukyu have won 3 games in a row, on the road. I’d like that to resonate for a minute. Quite an amazing feat considering their record up until the Fukuoka match. FC Ryukyu have now earned 46 points this season while providing some memorable moments to their fans in the twilight part of the 2019 season.
Match Recap
Please understand that while I am out of the country, I am unable to watch the full 90’ game on DAZN in order to provide an accurate assessment of the squad. Instead, I am completely reliant on the YouTube highlights. With that in mind, here is what I saw:
First Half: It seemed that FC Ryukyu dominated large parts of the first half. Uejo opened the scoring early, the 2’ with another quality goal, and FC Ryukyu had several good opportunities to double, almost triple, their lead over Renofa. However, Renofa scored and leveled the game just before half time
Second Half: There were zero, I mean literally zero, highlights of this half outside of the culminating event in the 93’. I cannot say which side looked better, performed better, or, who had the best opportunities on net. The most exciting part was the Kawai goal that sealed the FC Ryukyu victory in the 93’. Uejo did all the hard work to maintain possession and then find Kawai with a pass. And Kawai responded in kind with a beautifully taken shot that curled around the GK and into the net. Kawai is awesome, enough said.
Final score: Renofa Yamaguchi 1-2 FC Ryukyu.
Man of the Match
FC Ryukyu FWD #14, Satoki Uejo. The opening goal, which was further indication that this man will not be here next year, was another quality piece of finishing on the part of Uejo. Uejo also added an assist on the Kawai goal with a nice little hold up play, using his strength to hold off defenders; then incredible balance to maintain possession, culminating in a softly laid off pass to a streaking Kawai for the final goal.
Review of the Keys to Victory for FC Ryukyu
1. A win is nice, but dresses some younger players: PASS. Ramon and Song Sun finished out the match. How they performed is another story, and is one that I’ll need to review later.
2. Play your game: PASS. FC Ryukyu did this, and more, this past weekend. Seems they frustrated Renofa at every turn.
Review of Match Day Prediction
2-1 Renofa: FAIL
Match Day 39 Takeaways
1. Not enough data to tell at this point.
2. Kawai looks solid, please retain his services for 2020 and beyond.
Conclusion
That must’ve been exciting to watch live as a visiting fan. To see a last-minute winner, while always spectacular, which is made even more special on the road. This side has really turned it on as of late. I hope that form continues this weekend against Kyoto Sanga FC as I’d love to see this side end the home slate with a win.
ryukyuarmy.com 