Vissel Kobe continue stuttering this season after a brilliant start, as Cerezo Osaka secured a 2-1 MEIJI YASUDA J1 League victory over them on Sunday.

Kazuya Yamamura and Kota Mizunuma struck either side of Kazuma Watanabe’s temporary equaliser for the hosts at Noevir Stadium, with Nelsinho’s men dropping down to eighth after two winless games.

Vegalta Sendai were able to put more distance between themselves and the drop zone in a six-pointer against fellow relegation rivals Albirex Niigata earlier in the day, with their 2-1 win secured by Crislan’s brace.

FC Tokyo were later unable to hold on to victory against Ventforet Kofu, as their second-minute lead was cancelled out right before the break.