Since we spoke to Avispa Fukuoka manager Pierre Littbarski earlier in the J-League 2 season, the going has been tough for our boys in blue. With an injury to influential center back Mark Rudan - and consistently tough opposition - it's proven difficult for Avispa to grab the wins they need to progress in a competitive division. A rousing victory against fierce rivals Sagan Tosu has been the only recent highlight, in a run which has seen the side concede far too many goals, culminating in a humbling 4-2 loss to J-League new boys Roasso Kumamoto at the Level 5 Stadium.

Join Fukuoka Now readers to cheer on Avispa as they take on Vegalta Sendai at the Level 5 Stadium this Sunday, May 25 at 13:00. A special section of seats near the very "colorful and entertaining" ULTRA fan club will be reserved for us. It will be fun - and a great chance to experience Japanese soccer - live!
Fukuoka Now has 30 free tickets. Most have been spoken for, but some are still available. To get yours, Sign up here
...and in case you cannot make that, consider attending Fukuoka Now's Avispa International Party on May 27, Tue., from 19:30 at La Boheme Qualita in Tenjin. Tickets are just ¥1,500 and include 2 drinks! There will be special guests, lucky draws, and more. Click here for details

See you there!