"But faced with this reality and a tray full of aeroplane food, the FourFourTwo team headed to Japan. As we touched down in Tokyo, any lingering doubts of tiredness were kept at bay by the immediate stimulation of our senses. Every turn brought with it a new sight, sound and smell to behold, making the urge to explore everything all at once a tough one to overcome. But common sense prevailed, and we headed for an early night."
"In Europe, these passionate fans would often be labelled as Ultras,' a word that brings with it certain connotations of aggression, crowd trouble and more often than not an ensuing police presence. In Japan, though, the Ultras' couldn't be further from that. These fans - fresh from watching their club on the global stage at the FIFA Club World Cup in the US - mixed peacefully pre-game with the Avispa Fukuoka supporters who had made the 115-mile journey to support their travelling side."
A 15-hour flight generated both excitement and the threat of jet lag, followed by arrival in Tokyo that stimulated the senses with new sights, sounds and smells. An early night prepared for a busy next day of seeking answers to footballing questions. Conversation with Japan-based sports journalist Dan Orlowitz revealed deep passion, knowledge and love for the J.LEAGUE shared by many fans on matchday. Saitama's stadium atmosphere intensified outside, hosting Urawa Reds supporters famed for passionate support. These fans displayed a peaceful pre-game mix with Avispa Fukuoka supporters who traveled 115 miles, before the match escalated to an even higher level.
Read at www.fourfourtwo.com
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