Avondale land major coup as Japanese star Sekiya heads to NPL Victoria

Avondale have secured a major coup ahead of the National Premier Leagues (NPL) Victoria season after signing Japanese attacker Tasuku Sekiya.

Sekiya moves to Melbourne following a sensational campaign in the NPL NSW last year, in which the 26-year-old was awarded Player of the Year and scored 15 goals in 26 matches for APIA Leichhardt Tigers.

He also captured nation-wide attention during the Tigers’ FFA Cup 2018 run, orchestrating the giant-killing of Melbourne Victory in the Round of 16 with a memorable brace.

Sekiya had previously played for lower league Japanese outfit Waseda United before he was scouted by ex-NSL star Naoki Imaya and offered the chance to play football Down Under.

The pint-sized forward has since carved out a reputation as one of the most exciting talents in the national second division.

Avondale finished the 2018 NPL Victoria season in third position behind Bentleigh Greens and Heidelberg United.

Avondale commence their 2019 campaign away to Dandenong City SC on Friday 15 February.