The fatigue and tiredness have finally caught up with Kahsima Antlers over the past few weeks as they have dropped four points in their last three league games. Playing in too many competition must have taken a toll on its players but I do believe that they will pose a strong comeback tonight when they host minnows Kashiwa. Kashiwa have been very poor throughout 2009, and currently, they occupy the second last spot in the league. They have lost heavily to top teams such as Tokyo and Gamba over the last month or so and are staring at yet another humiliating defeat.

Kashima are easily the best team in Japan for many years already and that dominance looks set to continue especially with the healthy lead they have at the top of the table. Out of four head to head encounters at Kashima's ground, Kashiwa have only scored one goal and taken a point off the hosts. One thing for sure is that Kashima will go out all guns blazing, following the aftermath of the 2-0 lead being lost last weekend. Furthermore, Kashiwa has the worst defence in japan, with 39 goals conceded. With their woeful record against the big guns, go for Kashima to clinch an emphatic win.

Pick: Kashima Antlers -2.5 @3.30