02
Three years ago, after finishing runner up to Yukimura in the Japanese junior tournament, a new player emerged, beating Sanada 6–0, 6–1, only to play evenly with Yukimura. Three years later, the rematch between Tezuka Kunimitsu and Sanada Genichirou. Just as Tezuka sealed doors one and two of the Muga no Kyochi, Sanada sealed the "Lightning" and "Shadow" until he faced Tezuka. Having no answer, Tezuka risked his future, and arm, with the Tezuka Phantom, reversing the spin and forcing the balls out instead of towards him. Tezuka's arm begins to feel the effects as well as Sanada's legs from constantly hitting the Lightning. Yukimura forces Sanada to change his strategy for the sake of three championships for Rikkaidai, using the Lightning and Forest techniques against the Phantom. Tezuka has no choice but to hit the Phantom, wearing his arm out until Sanada gains match point. With one final Lightning, instead of using the Phantom, Tezuka utilizes the Tezuka Zone to bring it towards him. It blew the racquet out of his hand, but the ball flew high into the air and landed on the net cord, teetering on the edge. With everyone watching, Sanada screamed for it to fall on Tezuka's side, which it did, resulting in Rikkaidai's win. Sanada shook hands with Tezuka, saying he'll never play him again. (Source: Wikipedia)
7/25/2008