One thing that is very nice is how Tachibana’s former teammates are still rooting for him. While his guilt of not having results is completely understandable. Coach Satake’s approach of taking risks is very interesting. It’s different from the fundamental play from Esperion. Though given that they might not be as talented, those kinds of tactics make sense to have. Although it could be seen as a calculated risk by using traps. The fact that the teammates detest Kaneda is good to see and how his ego is unhealthy.
What was good to see was Tachibana coming to Ashito’s defense when Kaneda launched himself at Ashito. While he is very down on himself, he doesn’t hesitate to come to his defense. It shows the bond that Ashito, Tachibana and Ootomo continue to be rock solid. It’s clear why Ashito called Kaneda their worst player because his play is pure selfishness. While Ashito’s play in the past was ego-driven, it never was to the degree that it is for Kaneda.
Despite Tachibana’s request to Coach Nozomi he still plays him. While sure, Tachibana might not be doing great, but he believes in Tachibana as he provides the team the best chance to win. Good to see Tachibana not getting down on his request being denied but seeing it as Nozomi believing in him. If his coach believes him, he is about to go all out.
It’s quite interesting to learn the connection between Togashi and the graduated players runs much deeper than many realized. Fukuda seemed to be recruiting Togashi for quite a while. The basis of the beef comes from how the graduated players view football. They are staking their lives on football in so many ways. Essentially, their number 1 goal is to go pro. While guys like Ashito and Togashi care first about playing football, they concentrate on winning and having fun.
One reason why Kuroda and Asari got moved down from A to B is because of that mindset. Perhaps Yuuma is one who was able to change that mindset, and it is why he adapted to the A team. He mentions you get used to it. More so, if you want to be on A team, you need to love soccer. No surprise Ashito agrees with Togashi especially since this adds on to the talk Hana had with him to cheer him up. Still, no doubt Togashi took things too far.
Still, there is the match against Musashino. It’s good to see Takeshima being the one looking inside himself. While the soccer he learned since youth is something he won’t pass on, he will understand when his weaknesses are clear, like they are for Tachibana. These two could be providing the spark that this team needs. Very curious how the match with Musashino goes.
