FUKUOKA (Kyodo) Yokozuna Hakuho dispatched of rank-and-filer Kotoshogiku in convincing fashion to remain one off the pace in the chase for his third consecutive title at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament on Friday.

Bull rush: Komusubi Aminishiki pushes down fellow komusubi Goeido to improve to 5-1 on Friday at Fukuoka Kokusai Center during the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament. KYODO PHOTO

Hakuho had to wrangle for position against Kotoshogiku but eventually deployed his favored right-leaning grip before quickly lifting the No. 3 maegashira over the edge to improve to a 5-1 record at Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Kotoshogiku fell to 3-3.

Hakuho, who won his eighth career Emperor's Cup at the autumn meet in September, remains hot on the heels of rank-and-filers Miyabiyama and Dejima after suffering an opening-day defeat. He is the strong favorite to take the home tournament silverware in the absence of rival Asashoryu.

Former ozeki Miyabiyama muscled out Tochiozan (1-5) in a relentless attack to stay perfect while Dejima, another former ozeki, toppled Tochinonada (1-5) to remain in a share of the lead.