Hisato Sato scored a stunning first-half strike and reigning J. League champions Sanfrecce Hiroshima closed the gap on leaders Yokohama F. Marinos to two points with a 2-0 win away to Sagan Tosu on Saturday.
Sato opened the scoring after 23 minutes with his 17th goal of the season, taking a pass from Yojiro Takahagi and giving Tosu goalkeeper Akihiro Hayashi no chance with a blistering effort that nestled inside the right-hand post.
The 2012 J. League Player of the Year made way for Gakuto Notsuda in the 68th minute and Notsuda sealed victory from the penalty spot with three minutes left.