ReUnited’s good run of results was frozen by a disciplined performance from a strong Japanese team in wintry conditions.

It was a match played with an icy wind and snow on the ground before kick-off. With such an early start it took us a while to get going and with Japan keeping 11 men deep in their own half we were struggling to find a way through.

Our line was high as we pressed and Japan held a threat on the break, first when Kellen saved one on one and then when they went ahead, their striker breaking onto a long ball and cutting inside to slot home.

We continued to press but could not create any clear chances, there were a couple of speculative efforts but the Japanese deserve credit for how well drilled they were and they deserved their victory.

So switch our attention to the cups next week and a game against the Vikings which offers a chance for us to get back on track.