PAINE, Eric
Sports Personalities of Singapore,
Accession Number 003406
- Oral History Centre
Source
- 6
Total Reels
- Mohd Yussoff Ahmad
Interviewer
- 05:22:22
Total Running Time
- English
Language
Copyright Notice
All rights to the recordings and transcripts on this website, including the rights to copy, publish, broadcast and perform, are reserved. Written permission is required for any use. If you have any queries, please contact nas@nlb.gov.sg
Reel/Disc 1 of 6
Metadata
- 1 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:54:15
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
Eric Paine was born in 1949. His father came from England and mother was a local Chinese Peranakan. Eric elaborated on his father’s background who joined the army and came to Singapore during the World War II in 1945. However Eric’s father became the prisoner-of-war (POW) for six months before being released because of good conduct. Eric’s father stayed in Singapore when he met Eric’s mother. Eric elaborated on his father’s profession, from working at Petaling Jaya as a juke box manager to coming back to Singapore and worked as a Police Inspector in Harbour Board. Eric described his growing up days at Petaling Jaya. Eric’s family fortune got better when his mother got a job and struck lottery.
The family moved to a better place and in 1977 they bought a place in Jalan Todak, a double storey terrace. Eric shared on his mother’s characteristic whom he described as a strict beautiful woman. Eric’s father remarried two years after his mother passed away. Eric cited that he learnt integrity and must stand for righteousness from his parents. Eric elaborated on his childhood days. He mentioned that he’s a Eurasian who spoke Cantonese before English and studied Malay in school. Eric described his childhood experience growing up in Thomson and Balestier area. He related one incident in Balestier where he was being protected by a group of gangsters when he and his friend were being bashed up by the Reserve Unit. Eric also mentioned he witnessed a settlement that went wrong between two groups of gangsters.
Eric elaborated on his schooling days. Eric decided he wanted to become a goalkeeper when he saved two penalties for his school; he was in Primary Five then. Eric got selected in Combined Schools Team when he was in Secondary Three at Victoria Secondary School. Before that, he related on how the sports masters in football, hockey and rugby wanted his services. Eric related why he did not continue his studies after his “O” level. He felt that he could excel both in studies and sports but too much time was spent on football. Eric’s father being an avid sports fan as he also ever represented Singapore let him played in a match on the evening of his English “O” level examination. As a teenager, Eric looked up to Wilfred Skinner as his idol. Eric related on his impression of Uncle Choo Seng Quee when he first met him at Jalan Besar Stadium and he was 10 minutes late for the training.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
Reel/Disc 2 of 6
Metadata
- 1 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:53:01
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
Eric also idolised Rahim Omar and Awang Bakar. He mentioned that when he was younger, he wanted to become a forward because of Awang Bakar. In international scene, Eric was a great admirer of the best goalkeeper of the world - Russian Lev Yashin or nicknamed as the Black Panther. Eric elaborated on Lev Yashin’s good sportsmanship. Eric related on how he managed his time with school and training and later on when he joined the army where he also played for SAFSA besides the national team. Eric described Singapore soccer scenario when he was a teenager. Eric elaborated on the scene at Farrer Park where 8 matches played at the same time and how clubs were managed then. Amongst the famous clubs then were Darul Alfiah and Fathul Karib. It was said that there would be ‘fireworks’ everytime the two clubs met.
Eric related on his impression of Seng Quee when he was sidelined on his first training for being 10 minutes late. Eric thought that the punishment was too harsh and even had second thoughts of joining. But when he saw the training that Seng Quee did with the goalkeepers, Eric was itching to be in the action. Eric described Seng Quee’s orthodox tactics and training methods. Eric described the typical training sessions that he gone through under Seng Quee who put high emphasis on physical fitness. Eric had already accepted Rahim Omar’s offer to play for Blue Rovers when Seng Quee approached him to join Star Soccerate. Eric knew that he would be spending most of his time on the bench if he was to join Star Soccerate as they had already first choice goalkeeper. Eric played for Blue Rovers for two-and-a- half season. He mentioned that being in a weakest team made him a good player. Eric shared on how he got roped into the Singapore Youth team and the competition he was involved with the team in Bangkok.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
Reel/Disc 3 of 6
Metadata
- 3 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:54:13
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
Eric related his experience competing with the team in Asian Youth Championship where Singapore lost 8-0 to Thailand. Eric related the deafening crowd and atmosphere. Eric shared on how the way was paved for him to be in the senior national team. Cosef was the coach then and Eric shared on the coach’s training methods. Eric related that he would rather start in a match than sitting on the bench and been called up to replace the goalie in play. Mainly because there would not be much time to warm up when the usual warming up time is 45 minutes. Different coach has different ways in choosing a goalkeeper for a match. Some matches require an experience goalkeeper while some may want more agility as Eric puts it. Every goalkeeper has his own strength and weakness.
Eric shared on his experience training with the team to Arsenal and Chelsea in 1972. Eric had actually hung his boots in 1971 but he made a comeback after that playing for SAFSA and eventually he got selected back to the national team through merit. Eric shared on the team’s first game with Edmonton in icy and bitter condition. Eric related on his experience training under Arsenal head trainer for youth academy Steve Burtenshaw. The team then trained with Chelsea, Eric cited that Chelsea’s players were very cordial, friendly and willing to share. However there was one unpleasant incident that happened during the last game where Eric got a kick at the pelvic bone and had to be carried out. Eric hung his boots after the trip because of the way the manager handled the team’s affairs and welfare during the London trip.
However Eric made a comeback in 1974. He got selected back to the national team when he played a brilliant game against Hong Kong Seiko. Eric related on the team’s lost to Penang in 1974 Malaysia Cup semi-final. While Eric thought the team matched Penang physically and tactically, the Lions just lost out on mental toughness. The national coach then was Michael Walker. Eric opted himself out of the team in 1975, Eric cited that most of his team mates were from the army and understand his job needs that required him to go for important courses. Eric gave his comments on The Straits Time write up about him and his demands. Eric rejoined the team on 15th June 1975 largely because of his father’s influence.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
Reel/Disc 4 of 6
Metadata
- 3 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:56:38
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
Eric represented Singapore in 1975’s Asian Cup tournament in Hong Kong. Eric got injured in a game against North Korea where he had a big gash on his left eyebrow that needed eight stitches. Eric shared in detail his injury. Eric played in the Malaysia Cup final loss against Selangor. Eric had a fantastic game but that was not enough to knock Selangor out. Eric mentioned that the pitch wet condition did not allow the Lions to play their normal game and some players were not prepared for that kind of wet condition. Whereas Selangor was well adapted and had a lot of international players in the team. In 1976, Malaysia Cup campaign, Eric played in all the games and was unbeaten except for the final where he sustained an inflamed Achilles’ tendon injury. Eric commented on Quah Kim Lye’s comment in the papers that Eric was having cold feet for the final. Eric cited that it was a case of misunderstanding as Kim Lye did not know the truth. Eric shared on the purpose on the team’s tour to Russia and England. Eric touched on the petition to recall back the players who were dropped and Eric believed it worked.
Eric related on how his father persuaded him to rejoin the team in 1977. Choo Seng Quee had initially asked Eric’s father to talk to him about rejoining the World Cup Asian Qualifying rounds. It took his father a lot of persuasion to move him. Eric eventually relented when his father said everytime he saw Eric donning the national jersey, he felt he was the one who was playing and that he had a short football career and he missed playing very much. With that, Eric came back. Eric shared on the training under Choo Seng Quee and on the World Cup Asian Qualifying rounds. Eric did not play in the Malaysia Cup winning year in 1977 because of knee injury but he was on the bench. Edmund Wee kept the goal. Though he did not play in the final, he still felt elated and happy that the team won. Eric described the supporter’s reaction when they got back to Singapore. Eric was surprised though with the allowance that was given out when he received a much lower share having played all the games, except for the final, than those who were on the bench in practically all the matches and only played in the final.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
Reel/Disc 5 of 6
Metadata
- 3 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:52:52
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
Eric was still in the team the following year. Sebastian Yap took over as a coach from Choo Seng Quee. While he was surprised with Sebastian’s appointment, he still respected Sebastian as the coach. Eric shared on Sebastian’s training method which had too much stress on fitness. Along in the 1978 Malaysia Cup campaign, Eric had a thigh muscle strain and he related an incident that the coach put the blame on him for the team’s loss in a game when the coach had actually the choice of not fielding a not fully fit Eric Paine.
Eric’s father was fuming mad at the coach’s comments in the papers. Eric would have just wanted to give up if not again for his father’s influence to complete the campaign. In the final, Edmund Wee kept goal again as Eric had a hairline injury. Eric asked the coach to field him when Edmund had a knock and kept committing mistakes that normally he would not have done. However, Eric’s request fell on deaf ears. Singapore lost 4-2 eventually to Selangor after leading 0-2. Eric felt more of a disappointment than anger and that he did not think he was with the right coach. When the team came back to Singapore, a handful of diehard fans were there along with the press and the players’ families.
Eric shared on the incident where he was approached by a bookie to ‘sell’ a game when SAFSA played against Hotel Singapura. Eric shared on the factors that led him eventually to retire from playing national football. Eric retired in 1978 and became a full time soldier until retirement in 1994. After which he went into leather business for three years before helping Quah Kim Song manage Tampines Rovers. Eric took a break after quitting Tampines Rovers. Eric then decided to join Ministry of Education and became Operation Manager until present. Eric last played a competitive match in 1984, after which the doctor advised him not to play any contact sports due to tore hamstring.
Eric mentioned that he sees the current number one Lionel Lewis as the junior Eric Paine. Eric shared that to be a good goalkeeper, one has to act fearless, agile, must go for the ball and not to worry about getting injured. More important is the attitude and the will to improve. There is no short cut to success. Eric commented on the S-League, the national team and the lack of soccer icons like in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Eric shared his fondest memory in his soccer journey - the letter he received from Trevor Hartley expressing his gratitude and fondness of the game Eric had displayed in a particular tournament. The letter which Eric cherished very much is still with him and will always be.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
Reel/Disc 6 of 6
Metadata
- 7 Jul 2009
Recording Date
- 00:51:23
Running Time
- MP3
Format
- Open Access
Conditions Governing Access
Synopsis
When Eric Paine got to know about the works and opening of Kallang stadium, he was elated, excited and looking forward to play at the stadium. Eric described his feelings the first time he got out of the pitch at the stadium. He mentioned that it felt good as the cheers became louder and louder as every name was announced. It was indeed a proud moment and the pride still lingers. Eric cited that the roar was so deafening that he could not hear himself. For an experienced player like Eric, he was able to block out the crowd and kept focus on the game but for inexperienced players, they tend to get intimidated.
Eric admitted that the crowd support inspired him to do better and it showed in the score lines where Singapore team was unbeaten in Malaysia Cup whenever Eric kept goal. Eric cited that the purpose of the spectators coming to the stadium were to see the team play so in the players’ mind, they would do their best to win. Eric described the crowd’s mood as cheerful and boisterous. Some came as early as 3 pm for an 8 pm match and some brought along families. He cited that the atmosphere was tremendous and more it made the players wanting to put up a good performance especially when most of the fans queued overnight in order to buy tickets.
Eric commented on the Kallang Roar’s evolution. Eric cited that the crowd loved when the team was playing well and there’s keen competition and rivalry with the opposing team. To top it up, the press levelled up their style of reporting and that generated interest. With all that, the number of spectators grew more and more. Eric cited the fans came in full support and usually the groups had team leaders. These leaders would come up with drum beats, melodic clapping and stomping of the feet. While no one knew exactly who started the chants, Eric believed that it started from diehard fans that had been following the team even when playing away to the extent of some taking leave. They usually took the position at the centre of gallery.
Eric cited that chants of “Referee Kayu” were hurled at the referee when he made a decision against Singapore team. A player would be accused of “Kelong” if he did not play to the best of his capability. Eric cited that at times, a player would have their “off” day and it could be quite hurting to be accused of that by just playing below par. Eric mentioned that the chants of “Ole-ole” came about when the team made strings of passes and made a monkey out of the opposing team. Some players would also be given nicknames such as Rajagopal was called “Camel”, Mohd Noh - “Allan Clarke” etc. For Eric, he was named the “Black Panther”. Eric regarded it as recognition of one’s play. Eric cited that Kallang Roar played an important part during Malaysia Cup where it spurred the players to live up to their game. Incentive was not much at his time but the players were able to play well and Eric tributed it to the Kallang Roar. Eric mentioned that the crowd never belittled players if anyone was not playing well and they supported the team as a whole. Eric cited that the press played their role in building up the excitement to entice the crowd and as a result they became more supportive and vocal and that united the crowd regardless of race and walks of lives in their support to the national team. Eric cited that it was unfortunate that the stampede happened in Malaysia Cup 1977 semi final, Singapore against Selangor. A minute silence was observed in respect for the man who died.
Other than that, Eric said the crowd was still jovial and passionate. Eric mentioned that the better team won in the SEA games 1983 final against Thailand. Although Singapore had the full house backing them up, Thailand was just the superior team in that final.
To Eric, Kallang Roar meant pride and it was like an acknowledgement that the crowd welcomed him. To Eric, to be able to don the jersey with the national flag on his chest was something that money couldn’t buy. Kallang Roar as remembered by Eric was an act of tremendous support and passion displayed by the crowd and it influenced the players to step up their game. Eric elaborated more on the link of the roar and players. As each player had their own following, the supporters kept coming back and while doing that, the influence was brushed on to others hence the support got bigger and bigger. Eric gave his comments on how the Kallang Roar could be revitalised and having mini Kallang Roar in S-League was not impossible if the right strategy was applied.
We will get back to your request within 5 working days
