Shinzo Koroki scored a goal in each half to help Urawa Reds get back to winning ways with a 2-0 victory over promoted Avispa Fukuoka on Saturday.
Reds, who finished second in the overall J. League table last season but lost in the first round of the playoffs, went into the match at Saitama Stadium on the back of a surprise home loss to Jubilo Iwata, having won their opening game of the season.
But Koroki swooped in the 18th and 51st minutes to make short work of J1 new boys Avispa, who have yet to register a win in the top flight after coming up through the playoffs last season.