Coach Royce Brownlie has finally got his man with Ryo Ono signing for Moreton Bay United.
Royce was impressed by the Japanese striker both watching and playing against him, describing Ryo as “one of those creative players I like”.
“When I played against him, he was always elusive, popping up and scoring goals, being in the right place at the right time,” said Royce.
“He’s very creative and when we lost Jacko (Jackson Courtney-Perkins to the NPL Victoria) I wanted Ryo even more because he can help us fill that role.”
The 28-year-old, originally from Toyko, put pen to paper after four years at Capalaba as they rose from the Brisbane Premier League (BPL) to the FQPL and last year the NPL Qld.
In that time, he scored seven goals in 22 BPL matches in 2017, 25 goals in 43 FQPL matches during 2018 and 2019 and seven goals in 22 games of the 2020 NPL.
Ryo’s 2019 tally included both goals in Capalaba’s 2-0 victory over Logan, then coached by Royce and including new Jets’ teammate Linden Farr.
“It was a tough decision (to leave), because I had four seasons at Capalaba, but they had a lot of changes last year,” said Ryo.
“I want to be challenged which is why I came here. I want to be a winner, (make) top four and finals. Royce was a big reason for coming here. He asked me more than once.
“Last season with COVID I was thinking a lot of time about this year. I think this is a good move for me. Moreton Bay is one of the best clubs in NPL.”
Ryo said he likes playing on the wing and cutting in, but will go “where ever Royce wants to play me.”
Royce explained: "We play different system to Capalaba, which will be the hardest thing for him. He’ll be in an attacking midfield role.
“Ryo’s just got to find his feet here and he will be dangerous. He’s part of a good squad we’ve got for this year.”