Match Preview: Taniguchi the Heartbeat of Eagles' Attack

Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

Geylang International finally returned to winning ways on the fifth time of asking in all competitions, as they smashed Singapore Premier League (SPL) rivals Tanjong Pagar United 5-0 on February 27.

While Tomoyuki Doi took the spotlight for scoring a second-half hattrick against a hapless Jaguars, it was his Japanese compatriot Ryoya Taniguchi who catalysed the landslide victory.

Bossing the midfield at the Jalan Besar Stadium that Thursday evening, the attacking midfielder not only opened the scoring as early as the third minute, but was also the driving force behind Doi's remarkable eighth hattrick of the season.

That commanding performance has left the Ultras Eagles - Geylang's unofficial supporter group - in awe.

"Young, skilful, talented attacking midfielder," says Julie Teo with much admiration for the 25-year-old. "He has been demonstrating what he's capable of, as reflected in his 10 goals and 17 assists for the team."

Hailing Taniguchi as the right signing for the two-time league champions, fellow diehard Martini Abdul Talib points out: "He complements Doi well. His reading of the game is always on point."

While the former Japan Soccer College academy player may not have hit the height of his breakout season in 2023 where he plundered a career-high of 23 goals that campaign, taking a longer view of his career shows Geylang have still got what they signed for. In fact, his goal tally this season is nearly similar to the nine and 11 goals that he scored in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

With eight more SPL fixtures and a couple more in the Singapore Cup remaining in the season, Julie believes Taniguchi can outscore his second-highest season record of 11 goals easily. "I think there are more goals to come from him," she shares.

In view of Geylang's thin squad this campaign, Martini hopes that Taniguchi could stay out of trouble by not engaging in unnecessary challenges. "He should make sure not to be entangled in risky tackles that might cause injuries," cautions the vocal supporter who is known for expressing her views on Hairul Syirhan. "His presence in the game is much needed."

Taniguchi is sure to take heed of Martini's advice when he faces former club Balestier Khalsa at Jalan Besar Stadium this Friday (March 7), aiming to help the Eagles avenge their recent Singapore Cup defeat.

With that see-saw clash ending in favour of the Tigers, Geylang's clinical attacking play was in vain as they were let down by defensive lapses at the back.

In the rematch on Friday, Taniguchi and his offensive company will strive to ensure that every goal they score will be good enough to secure the points.

Team news: Head coach Noor Ali has almost all his men at his disposal, except for the injured Zikos Chua and Rio Sakuma.