Geylang s Tomoyuki Doi up for top honours at SPL Awards Night after record breaking season

SINGAPORE – Geylang International striker Tomoyuki Doi will have the chance to round off a sensational season at the Singapore Premier League (SPL) Awards Night, after being named among the nominees for several honours on May 27.

The Japanese star will receive the SPL Golden Boot and a special recognition award after scoring a league-record 44 goals in 31 appearances, surpassing former Singapore Armed Forces FC forward Mirko Grabovac’s previous mark of 38 goals in a 33-game campaign in 2001.

His attacking exploits have also earned him a spot on the shortlist for the AIA SPL Player of the Year, alongside Lion City Sailors’ defender Bailey Wright and forward Shawal Anuar, who played key roles in their club’s title victory.

Doi, 27, said: “I’m honoured to be nominated for the two awards. I really am grateful for everyone’s support, especially those who supported me in the last 1½ years when I joined Geylang. The key to being where I am is that I have always believed in myself and kept the focus on getting better. It’s as simple as that, nothing special.”

Due to be held at the Orchard Hotel on June 1, the event will see the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) celebrate standout performances from the SPL and the SPL Under-21 League, with accolades to be presented across 13 categories.

The Eagles had more reason to celebrate, with coach Noor Ali nominated for the Polar Mineral Water Coach of the Year award after leading Geylang to a third-placed finish – their best since 2003, when they were runners-up.

Also up for the award are the Sailors’ title-winning coach Aleksandar Rankovic, a first-time nominee, and BG Tampines Rovers’ Gavin Lee.

With the Sailors in the running for several top awards, their sporting director Badri Ghent hailed this as a