In this episode, it was not merely his improved defensive anticipation. More importantly, it was that calm, unhurried presence, as if he had already seen through every one of Sawakita's movements. Every defense, every approach, landed precisely on the flaws in his rhythm. This change was far more troublesome than a simple surge in strength.
Facing Sawakita Eiji's bewildered gaze, Sendoh's lips slowly curved into a faint smile, carrying a hint of casual amusement. His voice was unhurried, as though he were regretting some insignificant little matter.
"What a pity. I thought I could steal it!"
There was no fierce provocation and no exaggerated boasting, yet those lightly spoken words struck harder than any mockery.
They were like a fine needle, accurately piercing Sawakita's doubts.
Sendoh's regret was proof that he had been completely certain of it.
That pass just now had only been Sawakita's desperate attempt to salvage the situation. Seeing Sendoh's confident, unruffled demeanor, Sawakita's heart inexplicably sank. A faint unease rose silently like an icy tide, spreading through his entire body in an instant.
As soon as the second half began, Akita Prefecture completely shed the slump of the first half, fully displaying both the strength of a top national powerhouse and the resolve to stake everything on one desperate fight.
Domoto Goro stood beside the bench, shouting tactical instructions himself hoarse. Every gesture carried utter determination as he poured every bit of potential he could draw out into this counterattack.
Fukatsu Kazunari, as the team's brain, completely cast off every burden.
He advanced with the ball, connected his teammates, and delivered precise passes. Every movement was clean and decisive.
He did everything he could to energize the team's offensive rhythm. Even when Chi Tong repeatedly closed in to pressure him, he never retreated in the slightest.