With the wind at their backs and a dynamic goal-scoring duo in front, Kashiwa Reysol started the season exactly how they wanted — with a win.
The J. League's first division returned to Sankyo Frontier Stadium in fine form on Saturday as Reysol rode braces from Ataru Esaka and Michael Olunga to a 4-2 victory over Consadole Sapporo.
It was a long-awaited return to the J1 for Reysol, who romped through last year's second division after their stunning 2018 relegation. Commanding the hosts from the bench was Nelsinho Baptista, the Brazilian whose first tenure with Reysol from 2009 to 2014 saw the club win all four domestic trophies including its first and only J. League title in 2011.