2014-15 FIRST CAPITAL PLUS BANK PREMIER LEAGUE XI

Agreeably, it was indeed an exciting season. After 480 matches across eight league centres in the 2014-15 First Capital Plus Bank Premier League, there was as much disappointment for clubs caught by relegation as there was joy for those who avoided the drop. In the end, 513 goals were recorded by 186 scorers, a stat averaging 2.14 goals per game.

As always is the case, some players stood tall,ensuring they never miss the opportunity to show their worth.

In this piece, your No.1 destination for in-depth analysis and permutations, Ghana League Statistics, compiles a list of the top 11 players who distinguished themselves to a dazzling effect – a five-star performance you might want to say.

Goalkeeper.

Osei Kwame of International Allies shoves off competition from Richard Ofori of Wa-Allstars and Felix Annan of WAFA to claim the post. Keeping13 clean sheet in 26 matches is highly commendable. He was made to take charge for the remaining two games when their substantive captain Joseph Aidoo was loaned to a Swedish club Hammarby Football Club. His reflexes and dives are absolutely incredible and no wonder it has earned him a call up to the Local Black Stars. In addition, Allies conceded the fewest goals in 2014/2015 season all thanks to Osei Kwame.

DEFENCE

Amos Korankye.

The name Amos Korankye of Sekondi Hasaacas might surprise many people but those who had followed the Premier League closely this season will testify to the fact he was splendid and was always the last resort when danger looms. Emmanuel Ankobiah and Godfred Saka provided stern competition but per statistics gathered, the right back fits in perfectly.

Eric Donkor.

At the left back position one name lingers and is not surprising it has to be Asante Kotoko’s Eric Donkor. The marauding defender is one the few versatile defenders who double as an offensive player adding to the number of attacking forwards who causes fear and panic among opponents. His surging runs and crosses are apt perfect. He made 10 assist and score one goal (against Hasaacas). If nothing at all we remember his neatly curved cross that met a powerful header by Amed Toure in the MTN FA Cup finals. Although Tijani Joshua of Ashanti Gold was a threat nonetheless his contribution to the Porcupine Warriors was applaudable.

Baba Mensah.

Baba Mensah was no doubt a solid defender in the First Capital Plus Bank Premier League. One of his trademarks in the league has been his neatly, expertly and calmly converted penalty kicks. When it comes to challenging for air-balls he is second to none. His defense organization for Inter Allies has got them far in the league thus helping them escape relegation. Admittedly, it won’t be surprising if he is seen in the future commanding a lead role in the national team.

Kadiri Mohammed.

Ashanti Gold’s defender Kadiri Mohammed put up a splendid defensive display to help the Miners claim their first league trophy that has eluded them for 19 years now. He does all the dirty works aside their captain Lawrence Lartey. He personally had the Hearts of Oak fans continuously clapping for him in their Week 16 game at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium in Accra. Kadiri has been the preferred choice for Coach Bashiru Hayford in defence, and has admirably partnered Lartey well in the set-up. Alfred Nelson and Ahmed Adams, although had a wonderful season for their respect clubs, somehow struggled towards the end of the year, thus, their omission.

MIDFIELD.

Eric Opoku.

Eric Opoku popularly known among soccer loving funs as ‘Hello Kwaku’ has been the ‘engine’ in midfield for Ashanti Gold this season. He is a tough tackler and reads the game very well giving room for other midfielders to operate. In case of possession lost his, recovery rate is exceptional providing a proper shield for the defense. Such is a player Ash Gold has in their fold.

Gideon Wadja.

One of the most creative midfielder in the league with excellent reading of the game is Gideon Wadja of WAFA (West African Football Academy). In this season he made more than 3 assist for his club. One thing he is noted for on the field is his positioning, very accurate and apt. His defense-splitting pass in games has equally been impressive. As young as he is and with age on his side it won’t be long foreign clubs come chasing his signature.

Bernard Ofori.

Traditionally, Bernard Ofori of New Edubiase is one of the best wingers in the local league. He has been consistent for Edubiase throughout the season. It's an undianable fact that he together with Fuseini Nuhu and Latif Anabila, carried the team on their shoulders when the going got tough. Single handedly, he scored 9 goals for the Obuasi- base side, beating Fredrick Yamoah of Inter Allies who had more than 6 assist, to the spot.

Bernard Morrison.

Ashanti Gold now has their third representation in the first XI in theshape of Bernard Morrison. The best unorthodox and nimble footed in the league. One advantage he has spilling off defenders in the attacking third has been the ability to use both legs. Ambidextrous player he is in nature. He made 6 assist and scored 6 goals. In addition, he won more than 3 penalties for the Miners.

FORWARDS.

Kofi Owusu.

It’s almost impossible to say the least – if not absolute – to ignore Berekum Chelsea forward and goal-king for the season Kofi Owusu. He scored 19 goals in the league overtaking Nathaniel Asamoah who led the goal king chart for a large part in the football calendar. Incredibly, 18 of his goals were from open play, with only one from the spot– a testament of his predatory instincts.

Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah.

Though Nathaniel Asamoah is now plying his trades with Moroccan giant Raja Cassablaca, Asamoah, nevertheless, merits leading the attacking role with Kofi Owusu. Before departing for the Northern African country, the former Kotoko man was the league’s leading scorer with 18 goals, and only lost the spot on the final day of the season. Such goal poacher he was.

Compiled by Nana Owusu Ansah (@n_pazl) and Kofi Amoah (@milikophy)