Tanjong Pagar will take on Geylang International at the Jurong East Stadium to close out their Singapore Cup campaign this Saturday (6 December). Despite already being eliminated, Aaron Evans insists the match still carries huge importance for his team, who are determined to end their campaign on a high.

“From the outside, it might seem like we have nothing left to play for, but internally we know we still have everything to fight for,” he declared.

“We’re going into the game with that exact mindset – we want the three points. A victory will boost our confidence and help us build momentum heading into the Singapore Premier League season (that resumes) next year.”

Having signed for the club just four months ago, Evans has settled seamlessly into life in Singapore, anchoring the Jaguars' defence with a series of commanding performances. His presence and leadership have made a significant impact on a struggling Tanjong Pagar side, which has shown clear signs of improvement in recent weeks. 

The Jaguars needed a win over Albirex Niigata (S) in the last Singapore Cup fixture to keep their semi-final hopes alive, but fell just short, losing 1-0 to a Katsuyuki Ishibashi freekick, after the White Swans had minimal clear-cut chances, and even had a goal of their own disallowed.

“They scored an amazing free kick, but we pushed ourselves even harder after that. We displayed fight and hunger and did everything to win the game. It’s just unfortunate the result didn't favour us that evening,” said Evans, paying tribute to the Tanjong Pagar spirit that has driven the team’s improvement.   

Evans believes the strong sense of camaraderie within the Jaguars’ dressing room is a key factor behind the team’s fortitude. 

“We have a very close-knit squad where everybody is together, which is fantastic to see as that hasn’t always been the case in the previous clubs I’ve been part of,” he said.

“That spirit is so important, especially given our results so far. Because we’re so close, we’re always there to support and help each other, both on and off the field.”

Despite Tanjong Pagar still languishing in 7th in the eight-team SPL team table, Evans firmly believes that a new dawn is on the horizon for his side as they wrap up the calendar year.

“We go into every game wanting to win, but sometimes that's not a reality. That does not stop us from training, improving, and staying coachable. To me, that's a sign that we want to be here and progress as a team,” he said.

“Regardless of the results, every game is a learning curve. There are positives to be taken, and we are working hard together to get the results which will inevitably come.” 

Catch Evans and the Jaguars in action against Geylang International at Jurong East Stadium. Tickets available on Trip.com.