The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden hue over Seiryuu High. The morning air was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation as the team gathered in the locker room. Today was a special day—the Inter-High Forum was releasing the updated stats for the top scorers and top assists.
The room buzzed with energy as players checked their phones, eagerly waiting for the announcement. Saijo sat on a bench, his foot tapping nervously against the floor. He glanced around at his teammates, all equally engrossed in the suspenseful wait.
Takashi, the team captain, stood near the entrance, his eyes scanning the room. "Alright, everyone, calm down," he said, though his voice carried a hint of excitement. "The results should be posted any minute now."
Just then, Gon, with his usual enthusiasm, burst through the door. "It's up! The list is up!" he shouted, waving his phone.
Everyone crowded around, trying to get a glimpse of the screen. The Inter-High Forum's homepage displayed the headline: **"Top Scorers and Assists of the Season!"** Beneath it, the names and stats of the players were listed in bold letters.
---
#### Top Scorers:
1. **Kenshin Morimoto (Akamine High)** - 15 goals
2. **Saijo Yuto(Seiryuu High)** - 13 goals
3. **Elvis Rodriguez (Seiryuu High)** - 12 goals
4. **Yuto Nakamura (Seiryuu High)** - 11 goals
5. **Shinji Takeda (Fuuto High)** - 10 goals
#### Top Assists:
1. **Takashi Yamamoto (Seiryuu High)** - 10 assists
2. **Hiroshi Tanaka (Akamine High)** - 9 assists
3. **Yuta Nakamura (Seiryuu High)** - 8 assists
4. **Ryohei Suzuki (Kawasaki High)** - 7 assists
5. **Gon Hoshino (Seiryuu High)** - 7 assists
The room erupted in cheers and applause as the team took in the results. Saijo felt a surge of pride seeing his name so high on the list. He glanced over at Elvis, who wore a triumphant grin.
"Not bad, Saijo," Elvis said, nudging him with an elbow. "But I'm catching up to you."
Saijo laughed, the competitive fire in his eyes. "We'll see about that. I won't let you pass me so easily."
---
Takashi stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with pride as he addressed the team. "Look at this! Seiryuu High is dominating both the top scorers and the top assists. This is a testament to our hard work and teamwork. But remember, this is just the beginning. We need to keep pushing ourselves if we want to stay on top."
Gon, still grinning from ear to ear, added, "And let's not forget, we have Hana to thank for keeping us motivated and on track."
Hana, standing near the back of the room, blushed at the mention. "You guys did all the work. I'm just here to support you."
---
The celebration continued as the players congratulated each other. The atmosphere was light and full of camaraderie, a stark contrast to the intense matches they had played. Simba, the ever-enthusiastic newcomer, was the loudest of them all, offering high-fives and exuberant cheers.
As the excitement began to settle, Coach Takeda entered the room. His presence immediately commanded attention, and the room quieted down.
"Great job, everyone," he began, his voice steady and authoritative. "Seeing our names on that list is a proud moment for Seiryuu High. But remember, the season is far from over. We have more matches ahead, and we need to stay focused and continue working hard."
The team nodded in agreement, the determination in their eyes clear. Coach Takeda's words were a reminder that while they had achieved much, there was still a long way to go.
---
Later that day, Saijo found himself wandering the school grounds, his mind replaying the events of the morning. He felt a mix of pride and pressure, knowing that his performance was crucial to the team's success. Lost in thought, he didn't notice Hana approaching until she was right beside him.
"Hey, Saijo," she said, her voice bringing him back to the present.
"Oh, Hana. Didn't see you there," he replied, a sheepish smile on his face.
"You've been really focused lately," Hana observed. "It's good, but don't forget to enjoy the game too."
Saijo nodded, her words resonating with him. "Yeah, I guess I've been a bit intense. It's just... I want to do my best for the team."
Hana smiled, her eyes full of warmth. "And you have. You're an amazing player, Saijo. Just remember, soccer is as much about having fun as it is about winning."
Her words lifted a weight off Saijo's shoulders. He realized he had been so focused on the competition that he had forgotten to enjoy the game he loved.
---
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the field, the team gathered for a light practice. The mood was relaxed, the earlier tension replaced with a sense of camaraderie.
Simba, ever the comic relief, decided to spice things up. "Alright, everyone, let's have a little fun. How about a friendly match? Saijo and I will be captains."
The team agreed enthusiastically, splitting into two groups. Saijo and Simba stood opposite each other, a playful rivalry evident in their eyes.
"Ready to lose, Simba?" Saijo teased, a grin on his face.
"In your dreams, Saijo," Simba shot back, his tone equally playful.
---
The match began, filled with laughter and lighthearted banter. Saijo's team moved with ease, their chemistry evident. Elvis, Takashi, and Gon were in high spirits, their movements fluid and synchronized.
On the other side, Simba's team put up a spirited fight. Simba's enthusiasm was contagious, and though his skills were still developing, his determination shone through.
The game was a mix of skillful plays and humorous moments. At one point, Simba attempted a dramatic bicycle kick, only to miss the ball entirely and land in a heap on the ground. The team erupted in laughter, Simba joining in good-naturedly.
As the game drew to a close, the score was tied. In a final, decisive play, Saijo dribbled past Simba, his movements quick and precise. With a powerful kick, he sent the ball flying into the net, securing the win for his team.
The players gathered in the center of the field, their laughter and camaraderie a perfect end to the day. Saijo and Simba exchanged a high-five, their earlier squabble forgotten in the glow of friendship.
"Good game, Simba," Saijo said, his respect for his teammate evident.
"You too, Saijo," Simba replied, his grin wide and genuine. "We'll get you next time."
---
As the team dispersed, Saijo felt a sense of contentment wash over him. The day's events had reminded him of the joy of the game, the bonds formed through shared struggles and triumphs. He glanced over at Hana, who was chatting with some of the other players, her laughter ringing out like music.
Saijo knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but with friends like Simba and the unwavering support of Hana, he felt ready to face anything.
### End of Chapter 28