Machida Zelvia returned to the top of the J-League first-division table with a 5-0 thrashing at home to Tokyo Verdy on Sunday.
In a clash between the teams that played in the second division last season, Shota Fujio scored a brace and caused an own goal at Machida Gion Stadium.
Machida opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Verdy defender Kazuya Miyahara tried to clear a Fujio cross but instead put the ball into his own net.
Fujio then headed in Machida's second in the 29th minute and made it 3-0 from the penalty spot half an hour later for a team that have been the talk of the league this year under manager Go Kuroda.
A year ago, Kuroda guided Zelvia to top-flight promotion in his first season in charge after a 28-year career coaching high school football.
"I feel great," Fujio said. "It was a must-win game against a team from the same area. This win sends us to the next match in good form. I'm growing confident, and I feel the team's growth, too."
Kai Shibato and Brazilian striker Erik added late goals.
The win moved Machida to 32 points, three clear of Vissel Kobe, who tumbled out of the lead with a 1-0 defeat at Kashima Antlers.
Kimito Nono scored an 81st-minute winner for Antlers, who are level on points with Kobe but third on goal difference.
In other action, Gamba Osaka defeated Kawasaki Frontale 3-1, while Jubilo Iwata and Urawa Reds drew 1-1.
