Shonan Bellmare took yet another big step towards their anticipated return to the top flight on Saturday night in MEIJI YASUDA J2 League action.

The BMW Stadium residents struggled in the first half against Mito Hollyhock, but found their pace in the second half with goals by Ryunosuke Noda and and Ryo Takahashi in addition to a Hollyhock own goal.

Second place Avispa Fukuoka won their third straight, overcoming Jeong Chung-Geun’s opener to win 3-1 at Yokohama FC with Wellington scoring twice after Daisuke Ishizu equalised.

V-Varen Nagasaki remained in third place with a 1-1 draw against Machida Zelvia, but they’re now just two points above Nagoya Grampus who won 3-1 at Renofa Yamaguchi.

Matsumoto Yamaga crossed the 60-point threshold with a 1-0 win against Rosso Kumamoto, while Tokushima Fortis climbed back into the playoff zone after downing Thespa Kusatsu Gunma 4-1.

The remaining two matches in the round will take place on Sunday, with Kamatamare Sanuki hosting Kyoto Sanga and Oita Trinity welcoming FC Gifu.