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Haikyuu!! Chapter 248: Disparity

The title and the first page is pretty disheartening. 

Oddly though, Furudate-sensei does not let us linger too much with giving us side stories. Is that on purpose? For what purpose though? Not to let our hopes up? Or not to let us worry? Who knows? I’ll just get myself prepared for either outcome.

BUT BUT BUT

Is it just me or does she look a lot like Goshiki? Though I want to give her a high five for being such a good wingwoman for her friend.

This exchange is interesting. Miya purposefully approaches Kageyama and then makes a jab to Hinata. I think he recognizes Hinata as Kageyama’s partner. He is wary of Kageyama, so naturally he is also wary of Hinata, and wants to nip them in the bud, if possible. But nope, it doesn’t look like it works. Somehow Miya reminds me more of Oikawa than Kuroo. With more arrogance though. I might be reading it wrong.

Good job defending your BFF (or BF, whatever your pick), Kageyama! Really, I think there’s no one else has as much regard to Hinata as Kageyama. I imagine he already has a high standard in the beginning, and yet Hinata manages to meet it. He moves it higher, and Hinata still meets it. Somewhere along the way, he stops putting limit on Hinata.

While I know that Karasuno’s dealing with a tough opponent, looking tougher than Shiratorizawa especially, but seeing so many of the starters (Daichi, Tanaka, Noya, Hinata, Kageyama, Tsukishima) calm and unaffected (with nervous Asahi, which means business as usual for Karasuno) does work wonders. So we’ll just wait and see?

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 245: Striking

This chapter can actually be titled Little Giants since it’s heavily focused on Hinata and Hoshiumi. These two has the best panels in this chapter. I don’t really like Hoshiumi, but he does make such interesting expressions. 

It can be discouraging, that is why the parentssenpais look legitimately worried for Hinata. But for Hinata, Hoshiumi is no different that Karasuno’s Little Giant, he is a representation of hope. Little Giant(s) show that is possible for small/short players like him can and does fight. (I also have to hand it to him for that speech) Hoshiumi himself is still in his second year, and if he’s a serious volleyball player, he has the advantage of early start in comparison to Hinata who has late start. 

It’s not like Hinata’s usual expression when he’s excited to meet strong opponents. Hinata looks truly, genuinely happy here. I feel like it’s different because he doesn’t want to particularly beat Hoshiumi. Or does he? Regardless, I’d want to see these two face off.

Hoshiumi, like any other wayward aces, has his own babysitter/herder/translator. However, we are not given an introduction? Only number six on his uniform? He also doesn’t appear in the match scenes, making me suspect he’s not a setter, and definitely not a libero. I wonder why. He really knows how to put Hoshiumi in place :D

The last time we checked, Kageyama is still seriously watching other teams, as noted by the background squeaking noises. Hinata is supposedly ninja-ing his way to the booth, and yet there’s Kageyama, conveniently there to introduce Hinata and Hoshiumi to each other. Deus ex machina?

I also snicker at Hoshiumi’s realization that Hinata’s the reason why Kageyama’s not particularly impressed by him back in the Youth Camp. He won’t get the reaction he wants from Karasuno, or any team who has faced Karasuno.

On another note, Kamomedai wins straight two sets by 25-20 and 25-18. It’s a significant score gap compared to our three faves. This might be on purpose to show that Kamomedai, and most likely the teams whose members are in Youth Camp, is on different level. I wonder which team Karasuno will encounter first?

Other precious scenes in this chapter:

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 237: Growing Period

Aaaand I’m back with Haikyuu!!! I just love, love this chapter!! Everyone in Karasuno all shines brilliantly! So lemme just scream and shout how wonderful everyone is!

And last not least,

From the boy who only follows the ball blindly and acts based solely on instinct, to a formidable player who is able to anticipate the ball’s trajectory and thinks quickly on his feet before acting. He deserves the wary look from both his fellow first-year teammates and rivals. He is slowly but surely closing the holes in his skills due to his late start, now all that’s left is tossing and serving. 

Since this chapter ends with Karasuno’s scoring, this means by the next chapter, it’s still Hinata’s turn to serve. We’ll likely to see more of Hinata’s receives in action. So excited!!!

BONUS:

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 236: Adjust 2

And here I am with the rare analysis-slash-commentary on Haikyuu!! I have so many feels (and thoughts) for the last chapter, so as usual, I end up writing it down.

Before this chapter we are shown the unfamiliar territory that is the Nationals, from the venue to the participants, that consequently required the Crows to adjust, some (Kageyama) more than the others.

But it is only in this chapter, that it really dawns on me that Karasuno is truly and well fighting and competing against the best teams from all over Japan.

But at the same time, we are reminded that Karasuno has earned their right to stand on this stage.

Furudate-sensei’s choice to highlight these two in particular seems intentional, as these two of all the Karasuno players struggles with themselves more than others (along with Yamaguchi) and yet, they finally grow into their respective roles that helps their team to get to the Nationals.

The thoughts from their opponent and the commentaries from the sportscaster further drive the point home that Karasuno is no longer Fallen Crows to those who matter, and no one underestimates them, despite not having faced them before in a match (even in Miyagi, only Seijou and Datekou who have faced them in a match are truly wary of them).

Karasuno has become, and is a national-level team.

Whoa. Let that sink in. (๑°艸°๑)

I’m so so proud of Karasuno.

Hinata shows off his receiving skills.

Finally!!! 

The truly skilled receivers are the ones that never really stand out. - Nishinoya about Yaku, Chapter 191: Cats vs Owls.

 And Hinata doesn’t stand out, does he? Not until he makes that save?

It’s too early to say that he is in the same level with Noya or Yaku, (honestly I think those two are in the realm of Super Libero) but he is on his way on perfecting his receiving skills. Surely that’s why, it is Noya who notices it first. It is why he makes such an interesting expression in comparison to others who witness Hinata’s save. He is the only one who fully grasps how much an accomplishment it is for Hinata to be able to position himself and save the ball (and knowing Noya, he’s so damn proud of his kouhai, I feel like a crushing hug is coming Hinata’s way).

I.

Defense has always been Karasuno’s weak point, relying heavily on Daichi and Noya, worse when Noya is out. But now with Hinata’s better receiving skills… 

I’m really looking forward for the next chapter, whether Furudate-sensei will show more of Hinata’s receives or keep them for later matches.

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 247: Day 02

I really like the cover for this chapter. It’s a good choice by putting both Kenma and Hinata together. The rivalry between Karasuno and Nekoma are truly important for all of them. Ukai pretty much gets it. (While I cannot help laughing at the snickering Kuroo and stink-eyed Daichi, these two captains probably takes the whole rivalry more seriously than the rest)

It is what motivate them to keep going and aiming for the previously impossible dream. I believe that’s not going to change anytime soon with Karasuno facing their greatest hurdle yet.

Inarizaki High School. Previous runner up of the Inter High and Miya Atsumu’s school. Honestly, the way Ukai describes the team really gives us the sense of how formidable this team is. I wonder what kind of strategy Ukai comes up with. But I cannot help be amused by certain people’s reactions.

Kageyama and his matter of fact explanations and obliviousness to the reaction to his words.

The Idiot Duo™ simplistic and optimistic approach (feat. unimpressed Tsukki, that’s one hell of side-eye).

And surprise, surprise, there are two Miyas!

Are that different hair color and parting line intentional I wonder? What’s up with the twins in sports? Daiya has twins as a battery pair too.

While all of those are interesting, the highlight of this chapter for me is the Ukais. I’ve been wanting to see more of these two. I wonder what the old, experienced coach of a grandfather thinks of his unexpected coach of a grandson, who manages to get to the Nationals in his first year as a coach. Now that put it down in words, Ukai is as surprising as his players. The old Ukai even points out how bad he is as a player, but at the same time he notes how good he is as a coach.

While he’s still rough at the edges, Ukai’s really getting the handle of this coaching thing. He can stand his ground as seen from the above panel. He quickly picks up that Takeda is gonna get steamrolled and immediately intervenes. He is likely the youngest and the least experienced coach around, but here he’s asking an experienced coach to help with their warm-up instead. He’s as gutsy as his players, honestly.

What also catches my attention is the championship bracket.

There should be 6 rounds in total CMIIW, and Karasuno will meet Nekoma in third round and Itachiyama in sixth round or in the finals.

Somehow… I doubt Karasuno will get that far. I’m not being pessimistic, I’m just being realistic. The first round against Tsubakihara has pretty much established how high the level of skill of the high school teams in the nationals. While Karasuno managed to win straight two sets, it doesn’t change the fact that they’re still scraping by (I’d say the same for Nekoma, too). They have the potential of growth, and they have grown through the matches against strong opponents, but there’s so much growing you can do during matches or even a championship. Then there’s that edge gained from sheer stubbornness and persistence usually in form of momentum or luck.

The third round match against Nekoma will be the most difficult match for Karasuno because of what it means for both Karasuno and Nekoma. The fulfillment of a promise, the long-awaited match, the settlement of the score, and the appeasing of the old coaches. There’s so much riding on a single match that I don’t doubt that both teams will give their all, throw their heart and soul into that game. They are not likely to think to play it safe, and to think of long term. They will push themselves to the limit. Whoever ends up winning the battle of trash heap, they will be completely drained. They will struggle to pick themselves up, not only mentally but physically. If they manage to do so in the fourth round, there’s a chance they can forge ahead, but winning the championship? Well….

That’s just a thought really. I trust Furudate-sensei to have everything planned, and so far Sensei hasn’t led us (or probably just me) astray. So I’ll just enjoy the ride. I wonder how good the second strongest team in Japan is.

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 249: Cacophony and Silence

This chapter is EPIC.

No, not because of this, though I’ve been waiting for Hinata emulating Hoshiumi.

But because of THIS.

Hinata, dramatic much? I don’t realize you could be such a drama queen.

I honestly cackle, cackle seeing these panels as prone as I am to second-hand embarrassment. 

Everyone’s perfect reaction is perfect. Suga and Yamaguchi’s being adorable. Kageyama being Kageyama. But interestingly, he only scolds Hinata for trying it during spiking/scoring.

It’s just so Hinata, who just wants to practice his jump.

(You should have given him the chance Daichi)

Honestly, the nerve to pull off a new, untried move in the middle of Nationals, against the second strongest team. But thanks to that…

Oh hello. Hinata, you put yourself in their radar. Just like you always do. Good job, despite your epic fail. You’ll get it soon and knock people’s socks off, as usual.

Now that we’re done rolling on the floor laughing and breaking the tension. Let’s dig into the chapter.

@spring-emerald noted that Inarizaki has managed to get to Nationals in THREE times consecutively, which… makes at least half of the team National regulars, and this current lineup is the one that gets the the farthest, and closest to the top. While Hinata gives us the impression that it’s business as usual, it’s kinda hard when we’re given so many hints how strong this team is. It’ll be Shiratorizawa all over again?

The only difference, other than being in the Nationals, is that Inarizaki has eighth player.

Additional psychological pressure actively using the supporters. It’ll be the first time for Karasuno to experience this. Hopefully they’ll get used to it.

Wait… I feel like we’re missing someone. Why court captain for Inarizaki and team captain for Karasuno? Wait, we’re shown the captain before right?

Wait, he’s not a starter????? I thought with his attitude he will be, but he’s NOT? WHY? Is he injured, like Oikawa? Is he a pinch server? Is the current lineup is not the best/strongest lineup???????? A team captain who is not a starter is more than odd, it’s suspicious for a team as strong as Inarizaki. Damn, this looks like it’s gonna be a long, tough match.

Back to the lineup. Tanaka,  Hinata/Noya, and Daichi are at the back. Kageyama, Tsukishima and Asahi are in the vanguard. Interestingly, they are not using the same order used against Aoba Josai (Daichi, Asahi, Tsuki/Noya at the back, Hinata, Tanaka, Kageyama) but using the same order used against Shiratorizawa. So Ukai’s strategy is not on the order… or not? What does he have up his sleeve?

On less serious note, I kinda like the brothers dynamics. Osamu gives the impression of the long-suffering brother having a twin like Atsumu. He gives as good as Atsumu, despite his calmer and more disinterested demeanor (rather reminds me the MBs)

Osamu’s toss in the beginning strengthens fandom’s speculation that Inarizaki might be using two setters strategy, despite Osamu stated as Wing Spiker. Who knows? Miya also looks rather normal here? He’s not as irritating, somehow. Just a typical perfectionist (coughOikawacough). The glare is awesome btw.

Lastly, just some random observation.

The annoying girls Miya’s glared into silence are twins with mirroring bangs, just like the Miya twins. And that enlarged Karasuno pre-game cheers shows jumping Noya and Hinata, and oddly fired up Asahi. Despite not losing his habit of writing people on his palm, Asahi is much calmer now and more comfortable as the ace. I’m proud for Asahi.

And it kinda occurs to me, Inarizaki’s name. INARIzaki. Inari, the fox, the trickster god…. Coincidence?

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 291: The Day of Change

I’ll be just crowing over this chapter. Ha! Crow-ing! Hell yeah, Karasuno!

The whole stadium is in uproar, completely taken aback with Karasuno’s win. But none is as surprised as the heroes of the match who remains in stunned disbelief with their successful block. It still doesn’t look like it has sunk in even when the team has descended upon them. (poor tsukishima is just so tired, finally, he can rest)

On the other side of the court, their loss is currently sinking in for Inarizaki. It’s always tough to see their expressions, but only one team can win in a match. (and damn, i need to be prepared, don’t i? i’m excited, but also terrified for battle of trash heap)

By the way of Battle of Trash Heap…

They’ve all got their game face on. And they all look badass. Even Kenma has his excited face. Yes, that excited face.

Now I’m getting stoked again for the upcoming match.

The training camp coaches are so proud, despite Hinata is not actually one of the players they actually coached, he wasn’t even invited lol. But they did witness his struggle and growth in the training camp, and to see him reap the result, on the national stage nonetheless…

Then the handshake,

Ace to Ace. Captain to Captain. Setter to Setter. There cannot be better matchups really. (which also gets me thinking, can asahi be said that he’s on par with the aces of the nation’s top 5 now? he kicks ass in this match)

Hinata’s getting more setter to his harem. The last time we heard that sentiment is Oikawa, and both Oikawa and Atsumu show their dislike of Hinata’s demanding style, and yet neither can resist the intrigue and challenge of meeting Hinata’s demand. Oh Hinata.

And is that a challenge for them to meet again on the national stage? Does that mean we’ll see Haikyuu with the current second years at the core of their teams? I’m holding on to that Furudate-sensei.

The cheering squad gets the acknowledgment they deserve. Sportsmanship doesn’t end on the court, they extend to the cheering squad. Well done both teams’ cheering squads! The teams cannot do as well without you! (grandma kita’s precious) True cheering squad understand better than anyone else the team’s struggles and keep cheering even when the team loses.

Kita is as calm as ever. Seriously, I’m getting Ushijima’s vibe from him. Tanaka’s getting fans, who started off doubting him and ended up cheering for him, well done! (and he’s so clueless, seriously, i’m starting to think that tanaka actually has a fair share of admirers, but he’s just too oblivious). Yachi is so, so relieved. I’m surprised she doesn’t turn into a blubbering mess right then and there. Kiyoko’s grinning, she’s so proud of her boys.

Honestly these two, they are so much alike. One cannot help but wonder whether they are the best of friends or the bitterest of enemies lol.

Oh dear. I cackle. Kita’s so unimpressed. But surprisingly, the troublemakers do respect his senpais and feel responsible for their loss.

Kita’s such a good captain. In the end, he’s the one who brings the strong team to tears. Not their loss, but just him and his words and his pride in his team. He has the right to cry for his last game, but he’s smiling because he’s happy for his wayward children, who finally have someone to keep up with them and someone they look forward to facing off in the future. Oh Kita ｡ﾟ･（>﹏<）･ﾟ｡

He’s cemented his place in the top 3 of my fave captains. Honestly, Furudate-sensei is amazing. Not only he manages to make all the teams distinct, but also give them personality of their own, while similarities can be seen, such as Kita, who bears resemblance to Daichi and Ushijima (and Kuroo?), it is still distinctly Kita. But captains? Captains are something else. Captain squad FTW!

Tired Karasuno is tiredTM. Kageyama’s whites can be seen. Noya is just plain adorable (insert loud squealing here). Daichi’s eyebags has bags. Asahi’s yawning like a lion. Tanaka’s halfway (un)dressing himself. Tsukishima’s head lols back and forth like a pendulum. All but one.

Hinata has experienced his moment. You’d think that his moment will be similar to Bokuto, in that they are both aces and spikers, that it will be about spiking, and yet it cannot be any different, because for Hinata it is when he makes perfect receive. Hinata is already deep into volleyball mania, what will the experience make of him? will it be good or will it be bad? I end up analysing things anyway, brain, please shut off. (and tsukki’s so attentive of hinata, seriously all the tsukihina lately makes me happy. now where’s all the fics?)

Old souls captain. Seriously, only Kita and Kuroo who speak of their kouhai as though they are much older. ‘kids’, ‘youngster’… lol After getting through the personality mismatch I think they’ll get along talking in old-man speak. It’ll be hilarious.

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 244: Weakness Number 6

I must admit that I find this chapter as especially hilarious, mostly due to Bokuto and the reactions of his teammates, Akaashi’s in particular.

The long awaited meeting of the small giants. Finally! (And Yamaguchi’s first reaction is to glance at Hinata? Surprised to see another short player? Or wondering which one is shorter/taller? Or wanting to see what scene Hinata’s gonna make?)

All three manage straight two sets win. The difference lays in the scores.

Karasuno (25-23, 25-23)

Nekoma (29-27, 25-21)

Fukurodani (25-22, 25-21)

Based solely on scores, I’d say Fukurodani’s the strongest team, followed by Nekoma then Karasuno. However, if we consider the circumstances of each win, Nekoma and Karasuno are pretty even, and Fukurodani is much stronger than the two teams. Fukurodani has the largest gaps with his opponent compared to the others and that’s without Bokuto in full throttle. It’s likely the score gap will be wider if Bokuto’s more involved in the attacks.

Now, Nekoma is the only team that reach the score beyond 25, but it is rather typical of the slow starter team. Regardless, Karasuno has the same problem with adjusting Kageyama and yet they still manage to finish the first set with 25 points. In the second set, Nekoma manages to win more decisively likely without substitution while Karasuno struggles more that they put in Suga for the last points. However, it is based on the assumption that their opponents are more or less in the same level. If not, well… we can throw this analysis out of the window.

Otherwise, it still stands that Fukurodani’s the more well rounded team with skilled members, Nekoma’s the more defense-oriented and -skilled team and Karasuno’s the offense-oriented and -skilled team. Thus, objectively I can see why Fukurodani’s the best candidate for the spring high champion. While I have no idea who will come on top between Karasuno and Nekoma. By virtue of narrative, I can see Karasuno winning, but Nekoma winning will be no less interesting.

Well, let’s just wait and see?

Yup, that’s Eiwa, who loses to Fukurodani. Remember the fate of the last team who wears headband?

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Haikyuu!! Chapter 241: The Chance that Was Left to Us

Awww first years Daichi, Suga, Asahi, and Kiyoko with their captains. The cover is oddly poignant and bittersweet in comparison to the action-packed chapter. Anyway, I’m back to yell about the great scenes in this chapter. So it’ll be image-heavy, as usual. Onward!

Karasuno keeps on attacking that every has gotten a spike in at least once.

Even the rare ones: Daichi and Tsukishima.

Tsubakou is still keeping their cool regardless. They are truly nationals veteran. I have to tip my hat to Maruyama. Somehow I can understand why he’s the one with number 1 on his back, though I wonder why he’s not the captain. That’s one awesome dump by the way. Good job captain.

Now on to everyone in Karasuno!

Hinata being a good blocker and decoy.  Although he is still considered less of a threat as a blocker compared to Tsukishima. At least you’re not getting ignored unlike before Hinata. That’s still progress. 

Hahahahahahahahaha. Really, these two. Tsukishima has gotten to know Kageyama well enough to guess what’s on his mind. And Kageyama picks up Hinata’s odd nicknames, really Tiredshima? Hinata’s really rubbing off on him, isn’t he?

Tanaka’s jump serves are getting better! Three serves on a row! Though the last one’s a bit of a miss. Still, he remains calm to turn it into a punch serve. Always the strongest mentally, our future ace, Tanaka!

Noya, our guardian deity. ‘nuff said.

Asahi has truly made his presence known as the Ace. His serves and spikes are to be feared. Go Samurai guy! *snickers*

Daichi is getting more observant of his kids and aware of his surroundings. I have wondered at his expression before it’s later shown with his quick reaction to cover for Tsukishima. Good job Dadchi!

And last but not least, Suga! It’s about time for all third years to shine!

Everyone’s expression is cute btw, especially Daichi’s and Hinata’s but… Kageyama’s? What’s with his face? XDD

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NEW UPDATE!! I'VE REGAINED ACCESS ON MY ACCOUNT!!

audriel89's tumblr has been terminated, taking away all of my haikyuu's manga chapter analysis

so now i would slowly make copies of my Haikyuu analysis posts here for archival purposes. thank you everyone!!

[hq-analysis]

Haikyuu!! Chapter 242: The Chance That Connects

The cover and title pretty much sums up the chapter. It is the third years who decide the match. It is the third years that make Karasuno. 

They are the chance that connects. 

Chance favors the prepared mind.

That experience, that moment, that advice from their captain shape them into the people and players they are.

Since then, they connect their past and their future, their senpais and their kouhais. They carry all of their hopes and dreams, regrets and disappointments. They don’t let themselves falter and become the unshakable foundation of Karasuno that finally achieves the once impossible dream. They might be less flashy or noticeable than their kouhais, but they are the reason why their kouhais can soar so high and shine so brightly.

The last point feels like the culmination of all the sweat and tears, all the patience and persistence for the third years, because everyone are involved in connecting the plays. From their kouhais who flourish under their guidance and support…

to themselves who makes everything possible.

Chance does favor the prepared mind.

Captain Tashiro has left his mark on Karasuno. He has laid down the foundation of the current Karasuno.  This is his team as much as Daichi’s and Kurokawa’s. I am really happy that both he and Kurokawa have the chance to come and see themselves how strong Karasuno has become.

Regardless… the MVP for this match is the one and only SUGAWARA KOUSHI! <3333

Suga is the very personification of chance favors the prepared mind. He observes very carefully of the opponent from the sidelines, preparing himself and finally seizing his chance when it comes.

Congratulations, Karasuno for your first win in the Nationals! Go go Karasuno!