MORIYASU LEARNING FAST

Keigo Moriyasu has had a steep learning curve since arriving in Australia. While the 22 year old had to adapt to the more physical approach to soccer here, he’s also had to learn a new language. Despite those hurdles the Hiroshima native has made every post a winner to date, scoring five goals in just six NPL games this season.

Arriving from Japan in February, Moriyasu initially tried his luck with some NSW NPL teams but deadlines for visa players arrived too soon.

“Staff at Blacktown City introduced me to the Edgeworth club,” he said.

Astonishingly Moriyasu continues to take the more than 2 hour train ride to Edgeworth from his Sydney home, as he attends English classes in the NSW capital. He spoke of his plans to move to the Newcastle/Hunter region in July once his classes have finished.

“I chose to play in Australia because I wanted to become a good English speaker,” he said. He noted that amongst all the English speaking countries [apart from the U.K.] he was drawn to Australia because he knew more about Australian soccer. The winger’s deft touch and powerful shot have caught the eye in Australia’s 2nd tier and regional tabloid the Newcastle Herald has been giving rave reviews.

Moriyasu proved he is a quick learner with another goal in Edgeworth’s 4-nil thumping of Valentine last weekend.

The 22 year old was relieved to escape unwanted attention in Japan. Being the son of popular Hiroshima manager Hajime Moriyasu meant he was under scrutiny that most young players don’t have to deal with. In Australia he is virtually anonymous, though if he continues to perform at his current level, that may change.

Meanwhile, he stated that he was enjoying life in Australia and all his teammates at Edgeworth had been good to him. When asked about the length of the Northern NSW NPL season, the winger was adamant 18 regular season games weren’t enough. He may be able to extend the number of games he plays if Edgeworth make the NPL finals and qualify for the main draw of the FFA Cup. Moriyasu will play a vital role if the Eagles are to make it through the final stages of qualification.

Though the style of play in Australia is very different, Moriyasu appears to be adapting to the physical side of the game. He has shaken off a number of aggressive challenges in recent weeks and is learning how to assert his own physicality.

The diminutive winger has added something different to Edgeworth’s attack this season, and is a strong contrast to star A-League recruit Daniel McBreen. Locals can catch Moriyasu in action this Sunday when Edgeworth takes on Charlestown at Jack Mclaughlan Oval. Kick off 2:45pm.