Kyoto Sangyo University defeated Tenri University 52-33 in a season-opening rugby practice match at Kamiyama Rugby Field, scoring eight tries to five as rivals who have shared the Kansai University League title for years opened their campaigns. Kyoto Sangyo dominated early with forwards driving mauls from lineouts and led 33-14 at halftime; in the second half both sides crossed three times, but Kyoto Sangyo held firm to win. The victory is meaningful for Kyoto Sangyo after Tenri impressed in last autumn's league; captain Chuka Ishibashi, who shifted to flanker this season after starring for Japan's U23 side, said the win gives the team confidence and a strong start, and he vowed to work hard to lead by example. Tenri, short-handed due to injuries, showed resilience by moving the ball and scoring, with vice-captain Jin Nakamura taking the fly-half role to organize from the backline. A spring addition, Kawagoe from Kobe's League One, drew praise from Nakamura for his rugby sense and potential as a connection between forwards and backs.