In this volume, we start to see the transition of Akutsu being the captain. No doubt this is a notable shift compared to when Yoshitsune was around when you look at their personality. Granted Yoshitsune knew when it was time to be serious. We know about Akutsu’s passion and it isn’t surprising if he is very intimidating. It is good to see Takasugi and the other seniors being the ones who need to be the approachable ones for the first years. It definitely puts them in the best position to support Akutsu.
Ashito and Hana’s conversation about Ashito wishing he had a bigger body is interesting. It’s one thing to want to get bigger, but wishing you had a natural body that was bigger is being concerned about things you have no control over. As Ashito left a notable impression on Tripone. Then to add the point Akutsu mentions more about understanding your tools and limitations. This is the area where Ashito really needs to focus on and his defense. Hana’s point is that there are various bodies in the league as proof he shouldn’t worry about that.
The loss against Ganon Osaka is a notable one and it is something that spirals Esperion where a few of the seniors start finger-pointing. It’s interesting as Ashito points out that it is Akutsu lost command of the defense. Essentially Akutsu fell into the habit of doing everything himself and thus the opponents would bait that out. Kind of a good example of how important communication and instructions are.
There were comparisons between Akutsu and Ashito regarding how much their unconventional type of play is a spark for Esperion. Although it’s also interesting each of their backgrounds. Ashito came from a loving family in Esperion as Noriko did everything she could for her boys. While for Akutsu his living arrangements were awful with a mother that couldn’t be happier for Fukuda to take her son off her hands.
As we have seen in Ashito’s recent burnout about him wanting to be pro no matter what. As Hana reminds him being pro isn’t the end of the world for him because he has family and friends who care for him. Though in an interesting contrast, Akutsu only has soccer. That is the extent of his relationship with Fukuda. Now there could be an argument if Fukuda should be an older brother figure for Akutsu. Though it’s not a surprise a letter regarding his mother has Akutsu shaken up.
As the match with Aomori Seiran comes up the focus seems to be more on Kitano Ren. It is curious the similarities he has with Ashito more likely with his vision. It will be curious to see him play as Ashito comes back into the lineup.
