Kashima Antlers sealed the first stage title of the J League with a 2-0 win over Avispa Fukuoka on Saturday

Kashima Antlers hosted Avispa Fukuoka in the first stage of the Japanese League looking for a win that would secure them a place in the season-ending playoff championships in November.

And it was the Antlers who got off to a bright start, taking the lead just before the half-hour mark after Shuto Yamamoto converted a Gaku Shibasaki corner to put them 1-nil up.

They doubled their advantage 10 minutes later when Mu Kanazaki weaved his way through Avispa's defence before setting up Shoma Doi to slot home comfortably and seal all three points.

With the J League season consisting of two stages - each teams plays it other once in the first stage before return fixtures make up the second stage.

The win means the Antlers go on to season-ending playoff championships in November which could be contested by between three and five teams.

The second stage starts on 2nd July.