That's right, folks. Their relationship has reached that stage were the mangaka feels the need to introduce the "kick the can impetus to move relationship forward" character. I think it's required by Japanese law.
Lets just be grateful Houki-chan is an obviously non-romance type.
Nothing like a bit of competition to motivate the athletes. And nothing like a introducing a serie of misunderstanding when you don't know how to advance your story huh? I'm looking at you 99% of romcom authors!