KASHIWA, Chiba Pref. — Three-time J. League champion Yokohama F. Marinos took a big step toward first-division survival with a 3-1 win over Kashiwa Reysol on Saturday, while Nagoya Grampus' bid for a first-ever championship hit a snag with a 0-0 draw against Jubilo Iwata.
Third-place Oita Trinita also suffered a setback, going down 1-0 at Vissel Kobe to leave Kashima Antlers in pole position, one point clear of Grampus with a game in hand going into Sunday's matches.
Speculation has intensified this week that Yokohama is on the brink of sealing a deal to bring Celtic star Shunsuke Nakamura back to the club where he made his name, but the ailing former powerhouse has been in real trouble this season, starting Saturday just four points off the drop zone.