When Singapore football fans speak of legends who lit up the National Stadium with flair and fire, the name Roy Krishnan always surfaces. Born Ramasamy Krishnan, but better known by the footballing world as Roy, he carved his name into the hearts of thousands with breathtaking runs, unforgettable goals, and an unshakable commitment to the beautiful game.
Roy Krishnan: From Ramasamy to Roy – A Journey Forged at Farrer Park
Like many footballing greats of Singapore, Roy’s journey began at Farrer Park – the “nursery” where dreams turned into reality. It was here that he caught the attention of the iconic coach Choo Seng Quee, who nurtured his raw speed and determination into polished talent.
His debut came in 1971 at the prestigious Merdeka Tournament in Malaysia, where he proudly wore Singapore’s jersey for the first time. For Roy, every match was not just a game but an honour. The boy from Jurong had become a national footballer, carrying the hopes of an entire nation on his shoulders.
It was also during a training tour in England that he transitioned from “Ramasamy” to “Roy.” A journalist, finding his full name too long for the match listing, shortened it. The name stuck – and soon the crowds at Kallang roared for “Roy Krishnan.”
Iconic Moments That Defined a Legend
Few players can claim to have provided as many unforgettable moments as Roy did. His dazzling speed and daring runs down the left flank earned him the reputation of being Asia’s fastest left-winger. But beyond titles, it was his ability to rise to the occasion that cemented his place in Singapore football history.
-
The Equaliser Against China (1974):
Before 50,000 roaring fans at the National Stadium, Roy sprinted over 40 metres and drilled the ball past Chinese goalkeeper Hu Chih-Kang. The stadium erupted, and the match ended 1-1 – but that goal became immortal. -
Hat-trick Against Malacca (1975):
In a Malaysia Cup clash, he tore apart Malacca’s defence, scoring three times in a 6-2 victory. That night, Singapore fans witnessed sheer brilliance on the left wing. -
The Chilean Champions Upset (1973):
When Union Espanola, packed with World Cup players, came to Singapore, no Asian team had managed to beat them. But with Roy’s winning strike, Singapore stunned the Chilean giants 3-2. -
Playing Against Japan and Pele’s Praise:
Against the visiting All-Japan team in 1974, Roy’s performance was outstanding. Later that same year, he impressed none other than Pele, the greatest footballer of all time. Pele told him, “As a left-winger, you should be in Brazil. Like Rivelino.”
For a boy who once delivered letters as an office boy at Singapore Pools by day and trained by night, these were dreams that turned into reality.
Roy Krishnan: Spirit Beyond Injuries and Setbacks
Football, however, can be cruel. In 1975, Roy suffered a serious knee cartilage injury during Singapore’s tour of China. Though he fought hard to return, the injury plagued his career and forced him into early retirement from international football in 1976.
Yet, it was his resilience that defined him. In 1971, even after a serious taxi accident on Deepavali morning, he reported to training the same day with cuts on his face – sacrificing his festival for his nation’s football. That was the spirit of Roy Krishnan.
The Mentor and the Man Behind the Game
After hanging up his boots, Roy turned to coaching and mentoring. In 1980, he took up a coaching course under Trevor Hartley and later guided Holiday Inn’s football team to strong performances in the Singapore Business Houses Football League. His ability to inspire and nurture players showed that while his speed had slowed, his footballing brain remained razor sharp.
Years later, he continued his service to football in various roles – from assistant coach to logistics manager at Albirex Niigata (S). Always present, always contributing, always giving back to the sport that gave him purpose.
A Living Inspiration
Today, at 72, Roy Krishnan still speaks of football with the same sparkle in his eyes that he had as a teenager at Farrer Park. His medals and trophies line his Shunfu flat, each piece a reminder of a life lived for the game.
Asked what keeps him going after more than five decades, his answer is disarmingly simple:
“I love the job.”
Also Read : Gopinath Menon: A Visionary Engineer Shaping Roads & Bridges