Giant Killing Discussion Thread

[leongsh]

Anime adaptation of the manga, Giant Killing (ジャイアントキリング) by Tsunamoto Masaya. On-going manga series. As of to-date, 13 volumes have been released.

A new manager has been appointed to turn around East Tokyo United ("ETU"), a football (i.e. soccer) club struggling in the top division of the professional football league in Japan. This new manager was brought over from a semi-pro team in England which has reached the last 32 of the English FA Cup. In order for a semi-pro team to do so in that competition, it has to beat significant larger professional clubs - the proverbial "giant killing" (thus, the title). However, this new manager comes with significant baggage as he's their ex-star player who left them to pursue his football future in Europe about 10 years back. Now that he's back, he's going to continue his "giant killing" ways with ETU.

This seinen football series is a change from the usual shounen football series. This will focus a bit more on tactics instead of just football action on the field. In addition, the football action will be much closer to the real thing rather than powered-up flaming balls like Captain Tsubasa.


ANN Entry (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=11189)

Official Site (http://www9.nhk.or.jp/anime/giantkilling/)


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[Fencedude]

For a second I thought that this was a Shadow of the Colossus anime.

[ilmaestro]

Awesome, someone actually made a thread about this. ^_^

Really digging the first episode, largely thanks to the shift in focus brought about by having a manager as the main character. Tatsumi doesn't seem anything massively original in terms of his personality, but he is definitely likable.

Actually think this is going to capture some of the particulars of soccer, its fans and its unique qualities and emotions quite well going purely from the first episode (haven't read any of the manga). They didn't make any glaring errors with the stuff about English football, either, which is a good start.

[Johnny]

I'm really looking forward to watching this! I love sports anime, but my favourite series (Ippo, Eyeshield 21 etc) deal with sports I'm generally unfamiliar with. Football, however, is something I know and love :)

Is anyone familiar with the manga? I'm hoping this is more realistic than the likes of Whistle as, even though I enjoyed reading it, it was a bit far-fetched at times regarding what shots players were making and so on.

[Nosredna]

I'm glad the show got the Englishman's thumbs up for the realism factor. Interesting premise and first episode. I'm interested to see how he gets a bunch of bums (who of course will have a lot of talent, it's just hidden :P) to play well and succeed. It definitely is an odd twist (to me) that they are showing the manager's impact on the team, but that hopefully will make the show fun.

[ilmaestro]

What's the bets they don't do it the "realistic" way? (ie. have him make the team very defensive, stop other teams from playing better passing football, etc) ^^;

The one good thing with soccer is that you can have "triumphs" that are very relative - simply avoiding relegation would, I guess, be pretty amazing for the team at this point, so hopefully they will stick to a very understated style.

[leongsh]

What's the bets they don't do it the "realistic" way? (ie. have him make the team very defensive, stop other teams from playing better passing football, etc) ^^;
My expectations are that he won't make them very defensive. Generally you don't get to do "giant killing" by just being very defensive. He will in all probability be working on tactics tailored to his opposition and trying to outsmart them on set plays and set pieces.

As it's an adaptation of a seinen manga series and quite popular, I do not think they would be going the Captain Tsubasa route... :P

The one good thing with soccer is that you can have "triumphs" that are very relative - simply avoiding relegation would, I guess, be pretty amazing for the team at this point, so hopefully they will stick to a very understated style.
For East Tokyo United, I suppose it's to beat relegation and excite the supporters to pull them back in again. It's about club survival.

For now, Episode 1 is showing the promise of this show. The multiple rounds of 30-meter dashes is hinting that he will be using both pace and stamina against the regulars. While pace is the obvious thing (as they showcased the difference in speed between the newbie Tsubaki against the captain Murakoshi), stamina would play a part as you can see the more senior players seem to be a bit more winded than the younger ones.

Episode 2 is only a day away for us to find out what he intends to show the senior regulars about how they play. The academy players of ETU were already slating the current ETU team of being lousy and rarely scoring early on in the first episode. Tatsumi commenting that the kids are right when he was reviewing the past matches of ETU. So, he intends to show them that things WILL change with him in-charge.

[ilmaestro]

Generally you don't get to do "giant killing" by just being very defensive.
Well, we're going to have to disagree there. The concept of "shortening the game" is very underdog friendly across many sports, and playing attacking football against better sides is rarely the way to go, since they have more naturally talented players than you. I do agree, however, that they will probably have some focus on set pieces and the like.

[Nosredna]

What's the bets they don't do it the "realistic" way? (ie. have him make the team very defensive, stop other teams from playing better passing football, etc) ^^;


So he's going to pull a Mourinho at Porto? :P I could see that, but that doesn't make for the most interesting football :sd:.

[leongsh]

What's the bets they don't do it the "realistic" way? (ie. have him make the team very defensive, stop other teams from playing better passing football, etc) ^^;

So he's going to pull a Mourinho at Porto? :P I could see that, but that doesn't make for the most interesting football :sd:.
I hope not either. I think a better one would be if they use the current Fulham side with Roy Hodgson as a model for the show.

[ilmaestro]

What's the bets they don't do it the "realistic" way? (ie. have him make the team very defensive, stop other teams from playing better passing football, etc) ^^;

So he's going to pull a Mourinho at Porto? :P I could see that, but that doesn't make for the most interesting football :sd:.
I hope not either. I think a better one would be if they use the current Fulham side with Roy Hodgson as a model for the show.
Hodgson has done a pretty good job from where Fulham were a couple of years ago, especially with free transfers and loan deals, but he has had a few million quid to throw around, too. I would say maybe Stoke after they came up to the Prem, but even they have had money to spend (they do rely heavily on workrate and set-pieces though, as you mentioned earlier). Catania in the Serie A would be a great model, imo, as they have had some off-field as well as on-field problems (which is something this series seems like it will include) since they got back to the top flight, and have had a last-day relegation escape recently.

[Senku]

Alright 1st episode, definitely building up the "what awesome thing will he do" angle.

It'll be interesting to see what strategy he will use against the regulars.

[ilmaestro]

Shock! Horror! The "subs" win. :lol:

As expected, the combination of superior speed and stamina was what he relied on, but once that started to take its toll the "subs" suddenly were "allowed" to turn into a Barcalona style one touch passing team... which I hope doesn't get over-exaggerated.

Most interesting bit might have actually been the press conference. Tatsumi really showing his inexperience imo, you do not generally want to get on the wrong side of the press as a football manager.

[Johnny]

Just watched episode 2. Interesting that the team is now, in training, effectively the old guard and the new bunch. Will be interesting to see how they are mixed when the team is announced. Someone, in a previous post, mentioned that they expected to see a lot of this series revolve around the tactics of football, rather than making it a more 'glamorous' sports anime, and that seems to be true so far which I appreciate.

ANN have this listed as being only 13 episodes long - does anyone know if that is the total number or just those listed so far? If this is to be a tactical series, 13 episodes just won't do it justice unless it's not going to follow the team throughout the season and/or there are further seasons planned.
Has anyone read all of the manga? Does it indicate how long this series is likely to be? I may start reading it alongside watching this.

Anyway, still enjoying! :)

[Nosredna]

I found it funny the regulars were so unfit. I mean they couldn't even run with them 30 minutes! No wonder they suck. I agree if he turns them into a Barca style team that could be quite over-exaggerated, but I do know they have hidden talent :P. Maybe the press is different in Japan though?

Oh and MyAnimeList has this as 26 episodes, but they aren't the most reliable source. Haven't read the manga either.

[Nosredna]

It will be interesting to see where the coach goes with all this chaos. I'm sure it's organized chaos, but still. I guess we did get some insight where he doesn't want things to go as he plans, he wants them to exceed his expectations. Oh and Gino will be interesting. I'm surprised they haven't mentioned him yet. I'm really looking forward to next week's episode, but how on earth did they get such a big crowd for a friendly?

[Johnny]

II'm really looking forward to next week's episode, but how on earth did they get such a big crowd for a friendly?

Heh, yeah everything seems a little OTT for a pre-season friendly :P

Anyway, we get the cocky Gino here who seems like he is the playmaker of the team or the one who starts everything. I like the fact that while we have been introduced to a lot of the team and can tell what sort of players they are, we're still as clueless as they are as to what sort of tactics the manager is going to employ. Can't wait for episode 4.

[bci110]

I'm really looking forward to next week's episode, but how on earth did they get such a big crowd for a friendly?

Good question. A capacity crowd for a friendly match, and 2/3 of the crowd is supporting the visitors. Shows what great support Tokyo Victory has even if it's a mere friendly :sweat:.

Anyway after 3 episodes the ETU coach certainly has an unusual style of managing. I'm not going to say unorthodox but it does appear that he wants to see internal strife within the club if it helps them to play better as a team. Though I have to question his decision to make Gino the new captain of the club. He's too much of a diva to hold the responsibility in my view.

[Johnny]

So, ETU go one nil up after some great play and then a soft free kick is given away and Tokyo Victory equalise. I thought that was a great episode, really shows that Tatsumi has some real potential with these players both in terms of tactics during a match and also developing the younger players on a personal level.

[Nosredna]

The one thing I don't like about football anime is that a player receives a pass then just runs for what seems forever. It just doesn't seem right to me. Just a minor complaint really. The tactics were definitely interesting and I'd expect Tokyo Victory to steam roll them now, but I'm sure Tatsumi has something else up his sleeve.

[Nosredna]

I still don't know why they were getting so worked up over a friendly. Interesting he gave Murokashi back the captaincy, I guess what he said at the end is the reason why he took and why he gave it back. Still I agree there isn't much to go on after a friendly result, but hey it's a positive start.

[Johnny]

I still don't know why they were getting so worked up over a friendly.

I think from the players point of view, they have a new outlook since Tatsumi arrived and they are both trying to keep their place in the team and also achieve some results.

It was good to see a lot of action in this episode. Conceding a free kick and an unlucky second shows that if they tighten things up, there may yet be some hope for ETU.

[bci110]

I still don't know why they were getting so worked up over a friendly. Interesting he gave Murokashi back the captaincy, I guess what he said at the end is the reason why he took and why he gave it back. Still I agree there isn't much to go on after a friendly result, but hey it's a positive start.

To be honest, I think Tatsumi handled the situation rather well. I guess he wanted Murokasi to prove his worth as the captain of the club and in his view he passed the test. Good cause I think Mr. ETU makes for a better leader than that diva Gino. I'm curious to see how much longer Gino will be on the squad with his carefree atttiude and how much of it Tatsumi will tolerate it.

As for the friendly itself, considering that a) it's Tatsumi's first fixture as manager (even though it technically doesn't count) and b) it's against the defending champs I can see why the crowd and the players would get worked up over it. But yeah Murokasi is probably correct in saying that had Tokyo Victory taken this game more seriously they would've crushed ETU.

[miraworks]

I just started watching this series, and now I'm obsessed. :sweat:. It's really a fun sports series, but when I look at the manga, I'm sad that some points weren't really focused on. For example, in episode 5, Tatsumi was pretty amazed at the crowd's reaction to Murakoshi's equalizing goal. I guess you can't have everything when something gets adapted.

Tatsumi is a pretty rare character, IMO. He's really suited to be a coach - not the type to lose it just because something doesn't go his way. He doesn't get mad at the team when they're in a bad situation (he makes fun of them though). I also like how he tries to understand the players as people, rather than forcing them to do something. Of course, he can act like a selfish kid but it's usually hilarious. Episode 6 and the interview with that female reporter are some of those moments, but my fave so far is this: (semi-spoiler for volume 10; you'll know what it is from the cover) He goes on a whim and holds a curry party.

As for episode 6, I'm amazed at how they're attempting to be international. And we know what that means: Engrish!

[Nosredna]

Wow that was certainly an interesting speech to give at the press conference. Oh and that was pretty obvious he was talking to the National Team manager. I'm a bit surprised they didn't make him Brazilian though. We finally get to a real game, they concede and we have to wait for next week's episode. How cruel :P.

[miraworks]

Wow that was certainly an interesting speech to give at the press conference. Oh and that was pretty obvious he was talking to the National Team manager. I'm a bit surprised they didn't make him Brazilian though. We finally get to a real game, they concede and we have to wait for next week's episode. How cruel :P.

Lol, he picks a fight at every turn (15th out of 18 is really bad). I agree that it's weird that all the foreign coaches in the ep were European. But now I understand where some of the animation budget went co'z half the time we get so much speed lines, panning, and repeated scenes - I had enough of those Tsubaki-Tatsumi scenes during the last match. I really hope to not see one in the next match.

But I have to say, I get a kick out of the CG crowd. It's sad that it's obviously CG but the restlessness of the crowd and the random people jumping in the background for no reason makes me laugh.

[Johnny]

So, we start of with Tatsumi riling up the other managers at a conference :sweat: Him laughing and joking with the Japanese national team manager was interesting too. Then a cliffhanger at the end as ETU go one nil down.

Great episode, also glad to see more Yuri :catgirl: <3

[bci110]

So, we start of with Tatsumi riling up the other managers at a conference :sweat:

Yeah, that was pretty cool. I wish more real-life manager/coaches acted more like Tatsumi did in that moment.

[Nosredna]

Wow I those first three matches didn't go any where near how I expected them to go. I can't say I like Tatsumi's attitude very much. I know that's how he's supposed to be and he's got a master plan, but I'd be upset with him too. I guess once everyone figures out what he's doing and they all come around will be part of the fun of the show. Plus he shouldn't make the cute female reporter mad :P.

[miraworks]

I actually like Tatsumi's methods. Considering it's a newly formed team using new tactics, I would be suprised if they didn't have problems (old habits die hard?). I just wish that the problems wouldn't last long, considering what Tatsumi asked Gotou.

EDIT: Hooray, it's legally available now: http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-05-21/crunchyroll-simulcasts-giant-killing-soccer-anime (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2010-05-21/crunchyroll-simulcasts-giant-killing-soccer-anime)

[Nosredna]

Good to see those two are finally coming around, but this team is still just horrible. Plus their attack is useless. I really did like the talk of strategy and why certain things happen and how they effect the game. If they get knocked out of the Cup so soon, what giants are they supposed to be killing?

[Johnny]

Wow, 4-0 and 2-0 defeats in the first games of the season. Tatsumi again uses some strange training methods but, despite it annoying a lot of the regular first team members, seems to have had some effect as despite another defeat in their third game, they managed to score.

Also, I think this was the first time we saw the ETU away kit. Very nice :)

[bci110]

Good to see those two are finally coming around, but this team is still just horrible. Plus their attack is useless. I really did like the talk of strategy and why certain things happen and how they effect the game. If they get knocked out of the Cup so soon, what giants are they supposed to be killing?

Good question. Maybe the "giants" they're trying to kill are their sense of failure and their failing mentality, perhaps?

Anyway yeah it is getting a bit frustrating watching ETU play. They seemed so disorganized and timid in their approach. But I also see some improvement in the squad's play and they are slowly buying into Tatsumi's gameplan, so I think we'll finally see some wins for ETU in the future. At least Kuro finally realized that ETU's fortunes rest on him and his defensive front.

Oh , and the soccer-tennis training session was pretty cool. I'm curious to know if any real-life clubs perform that sort of training exercise.

[Nosredna]

Well the supporters are beginning to clash. I do agree when you as a supporter think you are bigger than the team, then there's a problem. Some of those supporters are really full of themselves, although some of them do have the best interest of the team.....

Oh and Tatsumi needs to hook up with one of the women in the show :P. Interesting the female reporter writes really bad articles and is rich, but at least she knows she writes bad articles. I'm hoping the Giant Killing starts next week, although those three stereotypical Brazilians will make things interesting.

[Johnny]

So I assume that the cup preliminaries take the form of groups? ETU got beat 1-0 in their first preliminary match and are currently 1-0 down in their second. I'd prefer it if before each match we were shown league standing and, assuming this is the group stage of the cup we're in, group standings.

It seems as though Tatsumi's tactics are paying off though in that the team is developing a spirit and becoming more positive as a result.

[bci110]

It seems as though Tatsumi's tactics are paying off though in that the team is developing a spirit and becoming more positive as a result.

True, but it won't mean a thing if it doesn't translate into wins. The fanbase is beginning to lose patience with the club - not that they showed any support fot Tatsumi anyway :bigsmile:.

[untoldsorrow]

It seems as though Tatsumi's tactics are paying off though in that the team is developing a spirit and becoming more positive as a result.

True, but it won't mean a thing if it doesn't translate into wins. The fanbase is beginning to lose patience with the club - not that they showed any support fot Tatsumi anyway :bigsmile:.

Its just something about watching the underdog win and rooting for them that I can't wait for the next episode. This is how the show is keeping me hooked and i'm glad they haven't won yet.

[bci110]

It seems as though Tatsumi's tactics are paying off though in that the team is developing a spirit and becoming more positive as a result.

True, but it won't mean a thing if it doesn't translate into wins. The fanbase is beginning to lose patience with the club - not that they showed any support fot Tatsumi anyway :bigsmile:.

Its just something about watching the underdog win and rooting for them that I can't wait for the next episode. This is how the show is keeping me hooked and i'm glad they haven't won yet.

Same here, but I like to see them win a couple of games before we really get into the meat of the series. I also like how the players are fighing amongst themselves, and once they figure out how to channel that emotion onto the pitch I think they'll be fine :cool:.

[miraworks]

So I assume that the cup preliminaries take the form of groups? ETU got beat 1-0 in their first preliminary match and are currently 1-0 down in their second. I'd prefer it if before each match we were shown league standing and, assuming this is the group stage of the cup we're in, group standings.

Yeah the cup prelims are in groups (The team is in Group C). I guess they're not showing the rankings to keep us in the dark ;).

Just watched episode 9. I love the 3 Brazilians. They're crazy. Hopefully this is a longer match (meaning: moar strategy like the the Tokyo V match). After all, it's that ex-manager they're up against.


Oh and Tatsumi needs to hook up with one of the women in the show :P. Interesting the female reporter writes really bad articles and is rich, but at least she knows she writes bad articles.

Lol, the lack of women in this show is rather sad, IMO. I mean, most, if not all, of the supporters in the stands who have faces and spoken lines are guys.

[Johnny]

Lol, the lack of women in this show is rather sad, IMO. I mean, most, if not all, of the supporters in the stands who have faces and spoken lines are guys.

I'm not too concerned about the lack of females in this series, after all I'm watching for the football and team. However Yuri is all kinds of awesome. One of my favourite girls from any anime currently airing :catgirl: <3

[bci110]

I'm hoping the Giant Killing starts next week, although those three stereotypical Brazilians will make things interesting.

The three Brazilians made me lol, especially Pepe. Though he's pretty good with those tricks he displayed to the crowd.

[Johnny]

ETU desperately needed a win before but now that the fans are starting to get annoyed, it's crucial that they win this one. Had to laugh at those Brazilians too :P I think they'll get the victory here.

[Nosredna]

Well all of Tatsumi's tape watching has finally paid off, well so far at least. Quite interesting episode and the strategy was great. Too bad we've got to wait another week for the conclusion. They need to find some offense though. Oh and Mr. ETU is horrible :P.

[Johnny]

So ETU are managing to hold on defensively mainly thanks to Kuro. They still need a win though and it looks like they now have an injury to worry about too.

[miraworks]

Lol, the lack of women in this show is rather sad, IMO. I mean, most, if not all, of the supporters in the stands who have faces and spoken lines are guys.

I'm not too concerned about the lack of females in this series, after all I'm watching for the football and team. However Yuri is all kinds of awesome. One of my favourite girls from any anime currently airing :catgirl: <3

Haha, I like looking at the guys more than the girls. However, I have to admit that the characters are pretty entertaining that I wouldn't mind seeing more girls in the show. I do love the team - it's fun watching Tatsumi be a "jerk", Tsubaki get neurotic or Gino be annoying (Is it just the gamer in me or is Gino's name a big fat Mario reference?).

As for the matches, I think I should wait for the matches to end before watching. These cliffhangers just leave you wanting more. It makes me wonder if the match will end at episode 11 (I hope so).

[bci110]

One thing I like about soccer/football is watching some of the individual matchups within the game, and the one between Kuro and Itakaga is very intreging. Also nice to see ETU finally stepping up their game; maybe they will break through and get a positive result by the end of the next episode.

lol at Pepe's goofy expression after he was caught offsides :P !

[Nosredna]

Geez, I hate how long these matches take.....Good for Tsubaki though, if not for him, they'd be down big, although he may have a head problem now.....Hopefully they finish the match next week. Oh and I need to vent about the subs. I'm watching via Crunchyroll, and it took me a second to figure out what they meant when they said score a point, what the heck is this basketball? That's pretty bad subbing.

[Johnny]

So some great defending by Tsubaki of all people means that ETU have held on at 0-0. The supporters were great when they came back out for the second half too, I think they're going to be repaid for sticking with the team with a victory here.

[Nosredna]

I sure hope they win, otherwise this show hasn't been living up to it's name :P.

[Johnny]

I sure hope they win, otherwise this show hasn't been living up to it's name :P.

What concerns me more is that we only have 2 episodes left :( There's a chance that we could get another 13 or 26 episode season later in the year or next year, but you would imagine that with the World Cup on at the minute, this is the time that a football anime will generate the most hype.

[Suwako Moriya]

What concerns me more is that we only have 2 episodes left :( There's a chance that we could get another 13 or 26 episode season later in the year or next year, but you would imagine that with the World Cup on at the minute, this is the time that a football anime will generate the most hype.

Actually, you have 15 episodes left. According to Crunchyroll and at least one other site, the series is supposed to be 26 episodes. Also, CD Japan has it listed as nine volumes. Which often means two episodes for the first volume, and the rest have three episodes. So relax, there's still time.

[Johnny]

What concerns me more is that we only have 2 episodes left :( There's a chance that we could get another 13 or 26 episode season later in the year or next year, but you would imagine that with the World Cup on at the minute, this is the time that a football anime will generate the most hype.

Actually, you have 15 episodes left. According to Crunchyroll and at least one other site, the series is supposed to be 26 episodes. Also, CD Japan has it listed as nine volumes. Which often means two episodes for the first volume, and the rest have three episodes. So relax, there's still time.

Ah really? That's great news :)

[Nosredna]

Actually, you have 15 episodes left. According to Crunchyroll and at least one other site, the series is supposed to be 26 episodes. Also, CD Japan has it listed as nine volumes. Which often means two episodes for the first volume, and the rest have three episodes. So relax, there's still time.

Did you show up in here by accident? :P

[Nosredna]

What concerns me more is that we only have 2 episodes left :( There's a chance that we could get another 13 or 26 episode season later in the year or next year, but you would imagine that with the World Cup on at the minute, this is the time that a football anime will generate the most hype.

Actually, you have 15 episodes left. According to Crunchyroll and at least one other site, the series is supposed to be 26 episodes. Also, CD Japan has it listed as nine volumes. Which often means two episodes for the first volume, and the rest have three episodes. So relax, there's still time.

Ah really? That's great news :)

Yeah if they only had two episodes at the pace they were going at, this would have been pretty poorly planned. Still I don't know how far they can get into a season in only 26 episodes, unless they speed some matches up. Of course they don't have to finish the season and just end it at an arbitrary point, but that might not go over too well with the watchers, unless that point makes sense (say them winning the Cup final?).

[Suwako Moriya]

Actually, you have 15 episodes left. According to Crunchyroll and at least one other site, the series is supposed to be 26 episodes. Also, CD Japan has it listed as nine volumes. Which often means two episodes for the first volume, and the rest have three episodes. So relax, there's still time.

Did you show up in here by accident? :P

Not exactly, I actually do sometimes read threads regardless of whether or not I'm watching a show. As for why, I have no idea. Maybe boredom? Maybe to see how the show is doing for those that are trying it out?

Also, I actually did try out some of the series. I'll just say it's not something I'd normally watch, but it's been decent all things considered. Not that I have much to say about it.

(For the record, it was the only show left on the CR Spring 2010 line up that I didn't try, so I figured I'd go all the way. Also, I'm not counting Bleach. Besides I tried that out years ago and it convinced me to watch something else)

[Nosredna]

Not exactly, I actually do sometimes read threads regardless of whether or not I'm watching a show. As for why, I have no idea. Maybe boredom? Maybe to see how the show is doing for those that are trying it out?

Also, I actually did try out some of the series. I'll just say it's not something I'd normally watch, but it's been decent all things considered. Not that I have much to say about it.

(For the record, it was the only show left on the CR Spring 2010 line up that I didn't try, so I figured I'd go all the way. Also, I'm not counting Bleach. Besides I tried that out years ago and it convinced me to watch something else)

Interesting that you read the thread. I know you're probably keeping track of all shows you're interested in so you won't get spoiled, but what about some sleeper shows that didn't make your radar that you actually might like, but get spoiled on?

[Suwako Moriya]

Interesting that you read the thread. I know you're probably keeping track of all shows you're interested in so you won't get spoiled, but what about some sleeper shows that didn't make your radar that you actually might like, but get spoiled on?

Good question. For shows that I'm actively watching and planning to watch, I tend to avoid spoilers. Since I'm going to watch it anyway. Plus as always I prefer not finding episode 22 spoilers in the episode 7 sub thread.

However sometimes I'll actually in a sense use spoilers to get a gauge for certain series. Sometimes it's actually being spoiled that gets me to try a series. Also, in the case of some series i don't care if I end up spoiling myself on them.

Also, I should not that sometimes I end up mostly skimming a thread and don't read some of the posts in full anyway.

[miraworks]

Yeah if they only had two episodes at the pace they were going at, this would have been pretty poorly planned. Still I don't know how far they can get into a season in only 26 episodes, unless they speed some matches up. Of course they don't have to finish the season and just end it at an arbitrary point, but that might not go over too well with the watchers, unless that point makes sense (say them winning the Cup final?).

They should at least make it to the Tokyo V league match! It would be sad if this was an underdog story and they didn't go up against the champs.

As for ending the series in 13 episodes, wouldn't that a rarity for sports series? Besides Oofuri's season 2 (which I kind of expected because of the manga), were there other series that ended in just 13 eps? I can't seem to think of any.

[Nosredna]

A goal! A goal! A goal! Too bad we have to wait till next week for the conclusion of the episode. I did like how the two Brazilians had time for a conversation before the goal kick was taken, but how about Tatsumi's tactics, he's finally got them in the right direction!

[Nosredna]

A win! A win! A win! I really liked at the end the Brazilians were trying to exchange shirts with Tsubaki, but he had no idea what they were talking about.

[Nosredna]

Well that was a different episode. Yuri's been enamored with Tatsumi since she was a young girl and she's a work-a-holic. While the old fans are trying to get as many people as they can to join up again to support the team. It will be interesting to see where the team goes in the next episode.

[Johnny]

So Nagoya notice that ETU have been successfully stopping them playing and they decide it's time for the Brazilians to all attack. Takumi's tactics come into play though and a counter attack leads to a ETU goal scored by Tsubaki! :sdsmiley: Now, can they hold on until full-time?

[Johnny]

A win! A win! A win! I really liked at the end the Brazilians were trying to exchange shirts with Tsubaki, but he had no idea what they were talking about.

Haha yeah, poor Tsubaki looking lost when the Brazilians offered to swap shirts and then again when being interviewed as man of the match :P

DIdn't expect ETU to score a second and it really looks like Tsubaki is becoming hugely important for them.

[miraworks]

A win! A win! A win! I really liked at the end the Brazilians were trying to exchange shirts with Tsubaki, but he had no idea what they were talking about.

Haha yeah, poor Tsubaki looking lost when the Brazilians offered to swap shirts and then again when being interviewed as man of the match :P

DIdn't expect ETU to score a second and it really looks like Tsubaki is becoming hugely important for them.

Lol, I agree. That was funny. Here's another pic of Tsubaki looking lost (This should depict what happened after the practice session in episode 14 ;)).

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/3669/giantkilling06045.jpg

I just caught episode 14, and it was a change of pace. While it was a slow episode, focusing on other characters was nice (It's nice to see the exchange between Tatsumi and Yuri). But it's funny - I find the kids' fandom much more interesting than the adults' :P

[Johnny]

Yuri-chaaaaaan! :O :'(
Thankfully she recovers :) :catgirl: I love her and this episode shows just how important she is behind the scenes at ETU <3

Also really love Goro and the other older guys who are trying to recapture their youth by supporting the team despite their jobs, wives and kids :sdsmiley:

These episodes with no football action are great when they're like this :)

[malazar]

Good to see the team pick up another convincing win. The addition of Natsu to the team also seems like it can only improve things with another potentially good goal scorer in the mix. It will be interesting to see how things shake out next week with Sera.

[Nosredna]

Geez this team has enough characters on it. I wish they would have shown Gino's free kick goal, that would have been more interesting to me than the penalty kick.

[Nosredna]

Poor Sera, Tatsumi seems to like him, but he can't get the job done and now he's injured. But hey at least they are on a winning streak. Although I suspect they can't lose any more cup matches, or there will be no true giant killing :P.

[Johnny]

Another win! A much more convincing 3-1 home one this time.
Natsuki seems pretty crazy :sweat: He also seems to be a natural goalscorer, is determined and energetic (perhaps a bit too much though :P) and should definitely help ETU.

Yuri, as always, was great :catgirl:

[Jimmie M]

I'm glad the show got the Englishman's thumbs up for the realism factor. Interesting premise and first episode. I'm interested to see how he gets a bunch of bums (who of course will have a lot of talent, it's just hidden :P) to play well and succeed. It definitely is an odd twist (to me) that they are showing the manager's impact on the team, but that hopefully will make the show fun.

I'm a little late to the party but after reading some of the comments here & seeing the Yuri avatars courtesy of Hielostar & Malazar, curiosity finally got the better of me. I just finished the first episode a few minutes ago & this looks to be a good one. I'm looking forward to seeing how Tatsumi gets ETU turned around & maybe changing the attitudes of the "supporters" towards him & the team. I'll try to catch up with the discussion as best I can.

[Nosredna]

Two draws in a row, but at least Natsuki knows how to make an entrance. Looks like Tatsumi isn't happy about something though.

[Nosredna]

I'm a little late to the party but after reading some of the comments here & seeing the Yuri avatars courtesy of Hielostar & Malazar, curiosity finally got the better of me. I just finished the first episode a few minutes ago & this looks to be a good one. I'm looking forward to seeing how Tatsumi gets ETU turned around & maybe changing the attitudes of the "supporters" towards him & the team. I'll try to catch up with the discussion as best I can.

Awesome! I hope you enjoy it. You know I don't normally like sports anime, so there must be something to this show if I'm still watching it :P.

[Nosredna]

Seems like we skipped ahead some matches and things are only going okay. Obviously the team's spirit is either going to break them or make them stronger (I assume stronger). Their next match will be interesting, that's a good team name given to their opponents as well :P.

[Johnny]

Etu vs Yokohama and they're playing very defensively and giving ETU problems. Sera is desparate to impress but knows that Natsu is on the bench, even if Tatsumi has no intentions of bringing him on :P
Murakoshi scores via a long corner from Gino, although Sera isn't happy that he isn't getting chances. Then to make matters worse, he gets substituted.

Great 1-0 win, but Sera is clearly frustrated. Tatsumi keeps his faith in him though and starts him against Shimizu Impulse. The crowd are getting behind him too and he has a great chance to score but ends up getting injured :( Such a shame, he's one of my favourites and I really want to see him score!

No Yuri-chan this episode either :(

[Nosredna]

So they're going to fight offense with offense? Too bad this entire episode was devoted to hype, because I really want to see how they are going to do.

[Johnny]

Thankfully, Sera's injury isn't too serious. Next league match is against Urawa Red Stars. natsuki comes on and is a little too enthusiastic :sweat: He scores a great equaliser though!

Another draw and, as Nos said, Tatsumi seems bothered by something.

[Damius]

So they're going to fight offense with offense? Too bad this entire episode was devoted to hype, because I really want to see how they are going to do.

Yeah, it would have been a perfect week for a double-episode. Still, it was a really interesting episode. A week is so long...

[Johnny]

ETU are getting beat at half-time and the team are arguing amongst themselves. Yuri-chan even gets hit with a bottle of water! :O :sweat:

Osaka Gunners next and we learn from their coaches talking that ETU played well in the second half of their last match, as did Sera.

The ETU players are watching a video of Osaka d they seem to be a very attack-minded team.

Another hot girl! :sdsmiley: She's no Yuri-chan of course, but I want to see more! :catgirl:

Looks like Tatsumi has something special up his sleeve for the tactics!

[Nosredna]

Another hot girl! :sdsmiley: She's no Yuri-chan of course, but I want to see more! :catgirl:

The reporter? Or was there a third woman I missed?

[Johnny]

Another hot girl! :sdsmiley: She's no Yuri-chan of course, but I want to see more! :catgirl:

The reporter? Or was there a third woman I missed?

The one who was in the room with the French guy who was eating the bun.

[Nosredna]

The one who was in the room with the French guy who was eating the bun.

Crap, I don't remember her at all :sd:.

[Johnny]

The one who was in the room with the French guy who was eating the bun.

Crap, I don't remember her at all :sd:.

Never fear, here's a quick and dirty screen cap :)

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/8071/30307215.jpg

[Nosredna]

The one who was in the room with the French guy who was eating the bun.

Crap, I don't remember her at all :sd:.

Never fear, here's a quick and dirty screen cap :)

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/8071/30307215.jpg

Thanks! I'm guessing she didn't do much because she didn't make much of an impression on me :P.

[Johnny]

The one who was in the room with the French guy who was eating the bun.

Crap, I don't remember her at all :sd:.

Never fear, here's a quick and dirty screen cap :)

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/8071/30307215.jpg

Thanks! I'm guessing she didn't do much because she didn't make much of an impression on me :P.

She didn't, she pretty much stayed in that position and didn't speak for the entirety of her screen time :sweat:
The more I look at her the more I like her though! :beatingheart:

[Nosredna]

Okay I definitely saw Johnny's girlfriend this episode :P. The stuff between Hauer and Kuroda was funny, too bad Kuroda left his mark and was beaten by that header. Although I'm not sure right next to him he would have done anything.

[malazar]

Okay I definitely saw Johnny's girlfriend this episode :P.

Yeah I noticed Johnny's girlfriend a couple episodes ago. She reminds me of Yuri only with blonde hair. :P

I am sure ETU will win the game, but I am curious to see how it ends up happening. I am going to guess Tsubaki will have a big game.

[Johnny]

- Track-top Yuri! :catgirl:
- Looks like Tatsumi wants them to have fun and be the first to beat Osaka.
- Osaka arrive and, getting off the bus, they look strong...except maybe Kubota :sweat:
- The Japanese national team manager is at the match. Is he here to watch certain ETU players?
- Tatsumi and Dulfer meet.
- Looks like Dulfer is determined to see Osaka completely over run ETU.
- Natsuki and Sera both up front, Tatsumi is looking for goals.
- Love the ETU anthem! :sdsmiley:
- I spotted the mystery girl a couple of times there too :P

[Johnny]

- lol @ Kuroda completely misunderstanding what Hauer said to him :sweat:
- Some great defensive work from ETU.
- The mystery girl! :sdsmiley: She never speaks :(
- ETU slip up at the back and the Gunners are 1-0 up...

[Johnny]

Okay I definitely saw Johnny's girlfriend this episode :P.

Yeah I noticed Johnny's girlfriend a couple episodes ago. She reminds me of Yuri only with blonde hair. :P

So she's my girlfriend now? :sweat: At least you noticed! :P

She's a part of Blanc's staff. Hopefully she gets to speak soon, before Blanc is gone!

[Nosredna]

I am sure ETU will win the game, but I am curious to see how it ends up happening. I am going to guess Tsubaki will have a big game.

I get the feeling it's Sera's time to shine. Otherwise they built him up for nothing :P.

[Nosredna]

Hey Johnny's girl talked! I think I'm more of a Fujisawa fan myself :P. Kubota really is making Sugie look foolish out there, very interesting how they set him up as a player. Down 0-2 going into the second half, I'm expecting a miracle and at least another two episodes on this one game :sd:.

[Johnny]

- She speaks! :sdsmiley: And she's knowledgeable :catgirl: <3
- Osaka continue to dominate and it's not long until they're 2-0 up.
- Half-time and it's still 2-0 with ETU not looking like scoring. This is an epic match, is this where the name of the series is going to come into play?

[Johnny]

Hey Johnny's girl talked! I think I'm more of a Fujisawa fan myself :P.

All I need next episode is for her to open her eyes. Oh and a name too :P But at least she confirmed she's alive :sdsmiley: Fujisawa is nice but I'd definitely place her behind the fantastic duo of Yuri and the mystery girl :)

[Nosredna]

This is an epic match, is this where the name of the series is going to come into play?

I hope this isn't the "Giant Killing" they are talking about but this late in the series I could see it.

[Johnny]

This is an epic match, is this where the name of the series is going to come into play?

I hope this isn't the "Giant Killing" they are talking about but this late in the series I could see it.

Yeah, I mean we've what, 5 episodes left? We're still in the early stages of the cup and league so unless we get a second season and this one ends mid-way through the season, or this season goes on for 50-odd episodes, I don't think the 26 will provide much of a wrap-up of things.

Does the real-life J-League take a summer/winter break during the season? Maybe that's where this season will wrap up?

Also, anyone who has read the manga may be able to let us know where abouts we are in the grand scheme of things and, spoiler free of course, let us know how much is to come.

[Nosredna]

Does the real-life J-League take a summer/winter break during the season? Maybe that's where this season will wrap up?

Also, anyone who has read the manga may be able to let us know where abouts we are in the grand scheme of things and, spoiler free of course, let us know how much is to come.

I don't think they do, it looks like they start in March and go until December. They took a two month break this summer, but I'm sure that was for the World Cup. Guess I should look at a non-World Cup year schedule.

I don't know much about the manga, but I do know there are 16 volumes of material they have to work with. But I don't konw where they are in terms of those volumes right now.

[miraworks]

Also, anyone who has read the manga may be able to let us know where abouts we are in the grand scheme of things and, spoiler free of course, let us know how much is to come.

We're around volume 7 and I think the match ends at 9. The manga is currently showing the team at summer training camp so I guess they do take a break. My Japanese isn't good enough to understand everything so I probably won't spoil anything :sweat:.

IMO, the Osaka match is best stopping point so far. This is my favorite match so far. There are 2 detailed matches after that with their own dilemmas, but it wasn't as fun as the Osaka match.

After all those matches, the break starts and things have focused on Tatsumi. It's been mostly about him for the last few volumes (volume 13-16). It's pretty insightful though, since it also includes the flashback to 10 years ago.

Halfway through Volume 16, things finally start up with the team on their training camp. Right now, they are playing a scrimmage match with a college team. The catch is that they are assigned different positions (ex: Sera is GK) and that Tatsumi is coaching the other side :).

[Johnny]

Also, anyone who has read the manga may be able to let us know where abouts we are in the grand scheme of things and, spoiler free of course, let us know how much is to come.

We're around volume 7 and I think the match ends at 9. The manga is currently showing the team at summer training camp so I guess they do take a break. My Japanese isn't good enough to understand everything so I probably won't spoil anything :sweat:.

IMO, the Osaka match is best stopping point so far. This is my favorite match so far. There are 2 detailed matches after that with their own dilemmas, but it wasn't as fun as the Osaka match.

After all those matches, the break starts and things have focused on Tatsumi. It's been mostly about him for the last few volumes (volume 13-16). It's pretty insightful though, since it also includes the flashback to 10 years ago.

Halfway through Volume 16, things finally start up with the team on their training camp. Right now, they are playing a scrimmage match with a college team. The catch is that they are assigned different positions (ex: Sera is GK) and that Tatsumi is coaching the other side :).

Thanks for that :) So we're definitely going to need more than 26 episodes then. Here's hoping for a second season and not too much of a cliffhanger ending for this one :P

[Nosredna]

I guess getting more episodes will depend on how well it's doing in Japan like mala said.

[Damius]

I guess getting more episodes will depend on how well it's doing in Japan like mala said.

I hope it does really good, since ending it in 5 episodes would be way too fast.

[Nosredna]

Well those were two different locker rooms at half time. Looks like ETU found their defense, now if they can only find their offense. Oh and these new fans vs. the old fans doesn't really interest me, but I guess that's supposed to be a pretty important part of the story?

[Johnny]

- The mood in the dressing room is tense and the defenders and keeper end up agreeing that all of them were at fault. Yuri-chan seems nervous :P
- Meanwhile, in the Osaka dressing room, they are also frustrated, although their frustration is because they feel they haven't scored as many as they should have against ETU.
- Tatsumi enters and tells his players that if they go out and enjoy themselves in the second half they will be able to win the match. No one else seems convinced :sweat: :P
- Seems there is some tension between the older and younger fans.
- ETU are defending much better, but they need a goal quick.

[Johnny]

Oh and these new fans vs. the old fans doesn't really interest me, but I guess that's supposed to be a pretty important part of the story?

I just want to know what the older guys banner was. Have a feeling it's something epic :P

[Nosredna]

I just want to know what the older guys banner was. Have a feeling it's something epic :P

Tatsumi for Prime Minster! :P

[Johnny]

I just want to know what the older guys banner was. Have a feeling it's something epic :P

Tatsumi for Prime Minster! :P

We <3 Yuri-chan! :sdsmiley:

Maybe the younger supports are mystery girl fans and the older ones are Yuri fans :P

[Nosredna]

Tatsumi said it best, Natsuki is creepy. With the forward position being so mental, I wonder why Tatsumi decided to play mind games with Natsuki before the big match, especially since he is a head case. Tsubaki showed up Kubota near the end, placing some doubt in his mind. Oh and damn cliff hanger endings!

[ilmaestro]

Oh and these new fans vs. the old fans doesn't really interest me, but I guess that's supposed to be a pretty important part of the story?
Heh, pretty much exactly what I said in the "currently viewing" thread, although I think I bent it more positively. I'm not sure it's an *especially* important part of the story (it could be, of course) plot-wise, but from the point of view of being a "total" football anime, the fans are the most important thing in the same way that they are the most important part of a football club.

[Damius]

Again, a really solid episode... Even this episode which turn around Natsuki is a really nice one. I hope Tatsumi words will wake up Natsuki at time. Oh, what an ending....make the 1 week wait even harder.

[malazar]

Yeah, Natsuki definitely is a headcase. It will be interesting to see how Osaka's offense is with Kubota on the bench for the rest of the game. The highlight of this episode was Yuri-chan freaking out when she heard Natsuki and Tatsumi were not on the bus yet.

[miraworks]

Yeah, Natsuki definitely is a headcase. It will be interesting to see how Osaka's offense is with Kubota on the bench for the rest of the game. The highlight of this episode was Yuri-chan freaking out when she heard Natsuki and Tatsumi were not on the bus yet.

My fave part with Yuri wasn't animated. It's one of the scenes I wanted to see besides Natsuki's image training. (small manga bit ahead) Yuri bags Tatsumi right after Tatsumi and Natsuki finish talking. She then says to Natsuki, "What are you two doing!? Hurry onto the bus!"

Overall, I like this episode. The offense is finally on the move, which was something that was insanely missing from the first half.

I hope there's a season 2. It's NHK so it's hard for me to see that unless they're pulling the numbers that Major does. Considering the number of merch looks like its expanding (hooray for the 2 CD OST), there might be a shot :)

[ilmaestro]

I just love the way series manages the ebb and flow of the games. Having Kubota subbed is magic in terms of how it changes the outlook for the rest of the game.

Tatsumi is undoubtedly a genius of sorts with his approach to training and man-to-man motivation, but I *almost* hope it backfires on him with Natsuki, just so we can see how he handles a "real" setback to his managerial philosophy.

[Johnny]

- Epic match continues with a flashback to before the match and Natsuki Vision! :sweat:
- Natsuki gets a chance but messes it up and it looks like Tatsumi is going to sub him...
- Osaka look certain to get their thrid, but Tsubaki appears out of nowhere and wins the ball.
- Argh!! Such a cliffhanger! :P

I think it's pretty much certain that this match is gonna be the giant killing feat. ETU have to win! :P

[Johnny]

I hope there's a season 2. It's NHK so it's hard for me to see that unless they're pulling the numbers that Major does. Considering the number of merch looks like its expanding (hooray for the 2 CD OST), there might be a shot :)

Don't say that :( I think I'm gonna try and track down the manga once episode 26 ends. Even if there is a new season confirmed, I need more Giant Killing! :)

I really want that OST too, the music throughout has been fantastic!

[Nosredna]

Gooooooooooooal! Glad I didn't skip the first part this time. Tatsumi's strategy has been brilliant so far, too bad they got down a goal he was counting on. But this is the game that will never end.....at least all of our girls got plenty of air time this week :P.

[Damius]

What an episode once again! I think I never heard that much french in an episode! But how could they end it like that?? And....2 episodes left...

[miraworks]

I hope there's a season 2. It's NHK so it's hard for me to see that unless they're pulling the numbers that Major does. Considering the number of merch looks like its expanding (hooray for the 2 CD OST), there might be a shot :)

Don't say that :( I think I'm gonna try and track down the manga once episode 26 ends. Even if there is a new season confirmed, I need more Giant Killing! :)

I really want that OST too, the music throughout has been fantastic!

I'd like to think Major is the benchmark since it got renewed almost every year. :bigsmile: Of course Major had a lot of material to work on, which is a far cry from this series. It's possible to get the next two games in 13 eps but I would be sad to miss out on Tatsumi's backstory (I like the flashback).

As for the episode, all I can say is: That was one obvious foul at the end. I hope the match ends at the next ep since epilogues can be fun!

[Nosredna]

Sera!!!! I believe someone had that right :P. I think I'm more excited the match is over than they won the game. I mean it was inevitable they'd win. Seems like they are setting us up for more, but who knows since winning one league match against the lead team is hardly Giant Killing to me, but maybe I have a different opinion than most.

[Johnny]

- Goal! 2-1! Yuri-chan is happy :sdsmiley:
- There's my girl again, looking stunned :P
- Sugie clears it off the line. Close!
- She speaks again! :catgirl: :beatingheart:
- The banner is revealed! They're giving Tsubaki support :)
- Penalty?! (I think Tsubaki was well outside the box but hopefully it was inside)

The epicness continues! :sdsmiley:

[Suwako Moriya]

- Goal! 2-1! Yuri-chan is happy :sdsmiley:

Heh, they were going to need to make a goal eventually. In any case, this show is reminding me of one of the amusing aspects of anime. Which is how the amount of episode it takes to show a single game can vary even in the same show. Granted, in some cases rather than being a game, it's something else. Depends on the subject of the show of course.

[Damius]

- Goal! 2-1! Yuri-chan is happy :sdsmiley:

Heh, they were going to need to make a goal eventually. In any case, this show is reminding me of one of the amusing aspects of anime. Which is how the amount of episode it takes to show a single game can vary even in the same show. Granted, in some cases rather than being a game, it's something else. Depends on the subject of the show of course.

Well, I think this was my favorite multi-episodes game ever. It's the first time, I did not say even once: "Will they finish the game in this episode or..." Really well done.

[Johnny]

- Well it wasn't a penalty, but it's a free kick in a great position.
- A well worked free kick and it's 2-2! :sdsmiley:
- 4 minutes of added time. Will it be enough?
- Tsubaki hits the bar. So close!
- Sera start believing, the epic music builds up, he throws himself at the loose ball and scores!! 3-2! :sdsmiley: My girl looks absolutely shocked! :sweat: :catgirl:

What an episode! So glad the win came and that Sera scored the winner :) Feel good sports anime at its finest. I love this series so much! :sdsmiley:

R1/R2UK COMPANIES - GET THIS LICENSED ASAP!!

[Johnny]

I think I'm more excited the match is over than they won the game. I mean it was inevitable they'd win. Seems like they are setting us up for more, but who knows since winning one league match against the lead team is hardly Giant Killing to me, but maybe I have a different opinion than most.

Well I would imagine there will be more as we're still in the middle of Tatsumi's first season in charge and we have ended on a high point (well, one episode left but it looks like a relaxing one :P). Giant Killing will probably refer to one or two matches per season like this one - epic affairs spread over multiple episodes. There's just so much you can do with a football anime and the phrase giant killing encapsulates so much and can be interpreted in different ways. I hope we get many, many, many more episodes :)

[Johnny]

In any case, this show is reminding me of one of the amusing aspects of anime. Which is how the amount of episode it takes to show a single game can vary even in the same show. Granted, in some cases rather than being a game, it's something else. Depends on the subject of the show of course.

After watching episode 25, ETU vs Osaka Gunners >>> Naruto vs Sasuke confirmed :sdsmiley:

[Damius]

In any case, this show is reminding me of one of the amusing aspects of anime. Which is how the amount of episode it takes to show a single game can vary even in the same show. Granted, in some cases rather than being a game, it's something else. Depends on the subject of the show of course.

After watching episode 25, ETU vs Osaka Gunners >>> Naruto vs Sasuke confirmed :sdsmiley:

The latter will not happen before de next 1000 épisodes.

[Nosredna]

Glory Glory ETU United! Glory Glory ETU United! Glory Glory ETU United! And the story goes marching on on on! Maybe we'll get another season, maybe we won't, but it was nice to see how Tatsumi is changing the culture of the club. I'm sure someone of the people here will go crazy for Yuri's outfit in the episode ;).

[Konoha]

I'd love a second season! This was a really nice way to send off the series. Gino was awesome as always, especially to his adoring fans ;) Tsubaki's reaction to his fans was pretty cute, too.

[FUNiOP]

This episode wasn't nearly as good as the previous one, but it was a nice open-ended send-off that will hopefully be followed by a second season before long. I'm so glad I decided to watch this series even though it's a sports anime, because I was rewarded for that good decision. While we're waiting for a second season, I can only hope this one gets licensed.

[Johnny]

- So the Osaka match wasn't the last we'll see. 3 wins in a row for ETU.
- Yuri worked off her feet as usual :sweat:
- Akasaki makes the preliminary Olympic team! :)
- A 0-0 draw next but, in better news, Akasaki came on in the Olympic match and set up a goal. Although Yuri doesn't quite see it that way :sweat:
- Cup match next (so much for thinking the series would end after the Osaka match :P) and it's a 1-0 win.
- Tatsumi has the players do some odd things instead of training...
- Chef Yuri! :sdsmiley:
- So the curry party went well and Tatsumi has united everyone at the club. More importantly, he tells Goto that they can be a giant killing team.
- Tatsumi rallies the troops and the episode ends. Perfect set up for a second season! :sdsmiley: Nice ED song too :)

So overall thoughts - this is pretty much the best sports anime I've seen, except for Maybe Fighting Spirit but only because it has about 50 more episodes. The music was great, the characters were great and the football was always realistic and believable.
If this was to get a few more seasons and they were as good, if not better, this could end up being one of my all time favourites! :)

So I'm happy with how it ended but definitely want, no need, more. Here's hoping :)

[Damius]

I think it is a really interesting way to finish the season. I really liked this episode. We have an open conclusion. I hope for a second season!!

[miraworks]

This episode wasn't nearly as good as the previous one, but it was a nice open-ended send-off that will hopefully be followed by a second season before long. I'm so glad I decided to watch this series even though it's a sports anime, because I was rewarded for that good decision. While we're waiting for a second season, I can only hope this one gets licensed.

Agreed. I thought the pacing was out of whack in this episode. I was really happy to see the curry party scene because everyone's reaction was hilarious though. Of course, to put that one in, they rushed through the scenes that made the party meaningful (The dilemma of the match against Kawasaki isn't so obvious).

However, the ending with the people singing the anthem was pretty cool. I'll miss this show. The cast is too much fun.

[Suwako Moriya]

So we end with what seems to be a "preparing for the next stage, but first let's relax" episode. Also, the power of Curry.