YOKOHAMA -- After failing to collect any domestic titles last year, Jubilo Iwata got back to winning ways on Saturday, wrapping up the J. League Division One first-stage crown with a 2-1 extra-time victory over the Yokohama F. Marinos at Yokohama International Stadium.
With two rounds remaining in the stage, Jubilo improved its points total to 33. Nearest rival Shimizu S-Pulse, with a game in hand, is on 23 points after beating Sanfrecce Hiroshima 5-1 at home earlier on Saturday.
It was Jubilo's fourth stage title, following victories in the 1997 second stage, the 1998 first stage and the 1999 first stage. With the win, Jubilo secured a spot in the J. League Championship final, slated for Dec. 2 and 8. If Jubilo sweeps the second stage, however, the team from Shizuoka Prefecture will become the league champion. Jubilo won the league crown in 1997 and 1999.