THE MTN FA CUP FINAL SHOWDWN

Writer:: Amoah Kofi

Twitter:: @milikykophy

Facebook:: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

One of the most prestigious cup in Ghana is the FA CUP, now sponsored by telecommunication giant MTN, dabbed MTN FA CUP. The competition started way back in 1958 and this season will be the 37th cup since its inception. The competition went dead in 2001 after Asante Kotoko won the last edition defeating Real Tamale United (RTU) by a lone goal. It later resurrected in 2011, taking a ten year break and has stayed on till now. The porcupine warriors, Asante Kotoko will face Tarkwa base Medeama at the Essipong Sports Stadium in this years MTN FA CUP final.

This will be the second time they are meeting in the same event and the third time this season. Kotoko lost to Medeama in 2013 at the Accra Sports Stadium when Samuel Anorbaah connected in a cross to beat Soulamah Abdoulai with few minutes to end the game. This, in a way will seem a revenge for Kotoko to appease their fans with at-least a trophy and avenge that painful defeat suffered in 2013. Medeama, who also won their first major trophy then in the club's history will definitely want to repeat the same dose on Kotoko.

Performances from both clubs in this season's First Capital Plus Bank Premier League hasn't been that convincing but fortunately for Kotoko, they seemed to have step on the gas and found the missing pieces along the way as they are unbeaten in their last five matches in the league whiles Medeama has only 1 win, 2 loses and 2 draws in their last five matches. Very sketchy for Medeama I should say but cup finals mostly have different stories to tell.

Very unfortunately, Medeama's leading goal scorer in the league, 25 year old Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah, who has 18 goals to his credit won't be playing a part as reports has it that he has landed in Morocco to undergo a medicals and subsequently sign a 3 year deal with Raja Casablanca, which makes him the third Ghanaian after Yakubu Mohammed and Awal Mohammed who has already signed with the club. This is what head coach Tom Strand said when he was asked about the absence of Nathaniel Asamoah, "hope that someone will  step up and have the courage and skills to surprise everyone".  He further added that "we are now together again to prepare for the match on Sunday. We will try and start well and comeback solidly". Spokesperson of the club Benjamin Kesse also said in an interview that "the absence of Nathaniel Asamoah could be a blessing in disguise for other players. We have alot of strikers in our team, the likes of Benjamin Bature and Akwesi Donsu who is currently the leading goal scorer in the FA Cup are all there to hold on to the forts" he said.

At camp of Asante Kotoko, the story is different as their captain Amos Frimpong, striker Dauda Mohammed and goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi won't be available for selection all in a bit to represent the country in the All African games scheduled in to take place in Congo Brazzaville. Former FC Nania player Prince Baffoe popular known as "Hulk"  or "Tropical" who now plays for Kotoko said in an interview with Kumasi base radio station Fox Fm that "we have talked to each other very well and this time around we are not going to allow what happened in 2013 to repeat on Sunday". This will be his fourth FA cup final on Sunday. He won it with Nania FC in 2011 defeating Kotoko, lost in 2013, and won it again with Kotoko last year. Kotoko's supporters chairman popular known as "Chairman K5" preached peace on the other hand saying "hooliganism in football should be done away with. You being harassed and beaten at one league center doesn't meant you should replicate the same on your opponent. I have forgiven them and no need to reply. Let's troop to the stadium and watch the game in peace". He was saying this in connection to alleged reports that he was beaten by Medeama supporters in week 21 when Kotoko played them in a reverse league fixture.

In the last 5 editions of the FA Cup, Asante Kotoko has played in 4 finals (2001,2011,2013 & 2014) but has won 2 of it (2001 & 2014). In total, they have won 8 FA Cup and has ended as runners-up 4 times. The club with the most FA Cup trophies is Accra Hearts of Oak. They have won the competition 10 times and 5 times as runners-up. Followed by Kotoko. Next, is Real Republicans with 4 FA Cups trophies and closely matched by Great Olympics with 3. If Kotoko are able to win on Sunday, it will be the second time of winning the trophy back to back since 1976 and 1978. Previously, there has been three clubs to have won the trophy on a back to back scenario. Asante Kotoko in 1976 & 1978, Real Republicans in 1961 & 1965 and Accra Hearts of Oak, distinctively on four occasions. Asante Kotoko has scored a whopping 15 and conceded only 2  goals en route to the finals, 7 more than Medeama who has 8 goals to their credit.

Sunday's match will be nothing short of excitement, near misses, speed, cruise control, midfield battle, defense splitting passes, tailor measured crosses and excellent showing of agility with powerful shots to beat both goalkeepers. At the back of the minds of both teams, there is an African spot for grabs. Whoever wins on Sunday automatically qualify 's to play in  Africa come next season. In addition, they take home 40,000 Ghana cedis and an extra 50,000 for their preparation to play in Africa. Runner-up takes away 15,000 Ghana cedis.

With their impressive and excellent football displayed through their qualifiers to the finals, I won't be missing this game for anything and hope you also don't.

ROUND UP OF WEEK 28 FIRST CAPITAL PLUS BANK PREMIER LEAGUE MATCHES.

Writer:: Amoah Kofi

Twitter:: @milikykophy

Facebook:: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

"How are the mighty fallen in the midst of battle!".... A quote from 1 Samuel 1:25 seems to be having a telling effect in our league, on one of our footballing giant, precisely in the camp of the continental club masters, Accra Hearts Oak. Former CAF Champions league winner in 2000 and 20 times winners in our local league are currently back at the relegation zone and are 15th on the league log. With 2 games to end the league season, the Hearts of oak fraternity will presumably be in full swing and put in much efforts behind the scenes and bounce back to pick the remaining 6 points to help them escape relegation. The league resumes on September 6th with Hearts playing Berekum Chelsea at home and WAFA away in the following week at the Sogakope Park to end the season. Critically, Hearts faith to escape relegation and stay in the league next season depends on their last match base on points build up by clubs above them and matches left. Alot of questions seems to trickle in on what has really gone wrong this season for the Phobia fraternity. Unbeaten in their last three matches, yet find themselves almost giving us a "good bye". A point at the Tarkwa TNA Park is quite laudable than to lose all the three points. Medeama has always dominated Hearts of Oak in recent matches and looked set to repeat the same dose but the spoils were shared as both teams failed to score. Goalless it ended at the Tarkwa Park.

On Saturday, the league leaders Ashanti Gold travelled to the Brong Ahafo region to engage Berekum Chelsea at the Golden City Park. A match that clearly will determine Ashgold's faith of winning this season's league really lived up to its billing. As early as the 8th minutes, former Maristburg striker, Yakubu Mohammed shot the miners in the lead with a calmly converted penalty. Chelsea's striker Kofi Owusu connected in a cross to cancel Ashgold's lead in the 35th and in the 66th minutes, Latif Salifu weaved his way through the Ashgold defence to double Chelsea's lead in the second half. The saviour I will say, Emmanuel Osei converted a second penalty for the miners in the 78th minutes to help them pick a point back to Obuasi.

At the Ho Park, Heart of Lions were at home to second place Aduana Fc this weekend. Prince Acquah converted a penalty in the 18th minute to give Lions the lead. No goals were registered again as Lions held on to pick all the three points. Very vital at this stage.

The Baba Yara wasn't left out of the action as Asante Kotoko played already relegated BA United (yet to be confirmed by the FA) who nearly served a cold dish to the Kotoko family this afternoon. Captain of the side, Amos Frimpong connected in a header from Eric Donkor's corner kick in the 18th minutes to give Kotoko the lead. Shortly after, Obed Owusu doubled Kotoko's lead in the 25th minutes before first half. Just when Kotoko thought there were controlling affairs, BA United had other ideas as Abdul Karim and Abdul Wahab pulled parity in the 63rd and 76th minute. Richard Mpong, who hasn't seen much action for a chunk part in the season for Kotoko really silenced his critics, gave head coach David Duncan a second thought about him and a last laugh for the Kotoko fans who have travelled far and near to watch their resurgent club. Mpong quickly shot Kotoko in the lead shortly after coming in as a sub and doubled his efforts three minutes later in the 82nd and 85th minutes to hand Kotoko all the three points.

Obuasi Len Clay wasn't short of excitement and nervy moments as New Edubiase fought from a goal down to defeat Yusif Bassigi's Hasaacas. Fredrick Quayson scored the first goal for Hasaacas in the 34th and his fifth in the season thus far. Just before the whistle was blown for the end of first half, Bernard Ofori leveled things up for Edubiase in the 45th minutes. With Edubiase missing a penalty in the second half, things were beginning to look bleak for them but Anabila Latif popularly called "Pogba" scored the winning goal in the 90th minutes as he did against Hearts of Oak.

Good old Godwin Attram who was all over the field in their game against WAFA could have scored a hat trick if not for the penalty he missed in the second half. Already having three goals in the league for Great Olympics, he scored his 4th and 5th goal in the season in the 50th and 78th minutes respectively. WAFA, as much as they could, tried but had no answers to the goals as they lost by two goals to nil.

Elsewhere at the Bechem Park, Bechem United held on to Noah Martey's 62nd penalty strike and the only goal in the match ( his 10th in the season) to pick all the three points at this crucial stage whiles Liberty Professionals saw off Eleven is to one, Inter Allies at the Carl Reindolf park in the closing stage of the game. With 8 minutes to end the match, Edward Ebo Mends scored the match winner in the 82nd minutes for Liberty to make sure the three points are safe in the bags.

Ghana Premier League - Statistical Preview to Week 27

Writer:: Amoah Kofi

Twitter:: @milikykophy

Facebook:: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

The race for survival and top four in league is on. With 3 matches to end the league season, clubs who find themselves wrongly placed and are getting drowned on the league table will seek to throw everything they have left so they are not coiled up by relegation. Through fair means and with their last breath left, a fight to maintain in the top flight division is assured in the closing stages. This isn't a period to share a joke with any club chairman, coaches or players since all attention seemed swayed towards escaping relegation.

A clear glance through the league table with specific attention to points shows a defeat or even a draw slips one club down to about two to three places on the league table. Points accumulated by clubs are so close in such a way no team is safe on the league log.

These weekend matches will light up the various venues with crucial encounters with the heat and chase still pending. Great Olympics who are yet to taste a defeat in their last 6 matches will welcome the lads, WAFA, from Sogakope who always delight supporters with scintillating football at the Ohene Djan stadium. The Tarkwa mauves boys will also play the continental club masters Hearts of Oak who are two steps down to the relegation zone whiles at the Baba Yara stadium, resurgent Asante Kotoko plays bottom rooted BA United who are without a win in their last 13 matches. At the Bechem park, Bechem United will seek to pick all the three points against Wa Allstars. Eleven is to one, popularly called, Inter Allies will travel to the Carl Reindolf park to square it out with Liberty in a regional derby whiles 14th placed Heart of Lions will try to end Aduana FC's hopes of surprising Ashanti Gold to the title as in 2009 as both of them play on Sunday. Lastly, Anthony Kommeh's Edubiase will humbly welcome 7th place Hasaacas at the Obuasi Len Clay Park this weekend.

Great Olympics  Vs  WAFA.

Great Olympics who are without a defeat in their last six matches in the league so far will be playing WAFA this weekend at the Ohene Djan stadium. Against all odds, Olympics picked a point from a dreaded grounds in Dormaa as they drew one all with Aduana football club. This has boosted their chance of escaping relegation aa they are currently 13th on the league table with 34 points.

WAFA who are 5th on the league table with 40 points will want to do a double over Olympics as they won the first leg by two goals to one. With Olympics seriously taking every game as a world cup final, it cast doubts of WAFA will be able to pick a win and further push them down to the relegation zone.

WAFA has 2 wins, 2 loses, and a draw in their last 5 matches in the league. This will be their 3rd time of playing teams from the capital city. They have won one (against Inter Allies) and lost one (against Liberty). Kwame Boateng (Olympics) and Zakaria Mumini (WAFA) all has 8 goals for their clubs and could increase their tally come Sunday. Ohene Djan stadium will be a one of a delight place to be on Sunday as both clubs treat their supporters to a beautiful football with one trying to escape relegation.

Asante Kotoko  Vs  BA Unite.

The story between Asante Kotoko and BA United has always been that of a lion and an ant. Kotoko, indeed has been roaring like a lion over BA United in their meetings in time past. In view of this, their meeting this weekend might not be different from previous meetings. There has been 60 meetings between these two sides. Kotoko has 46 wins whiles BA United has ONLY 6 wins with 8 ending in stalemate. Since the introduction of the Premier League system in 1999, they have met 11 times. Kotoko has go ahead to be on the winning side on 8 occasions, scored 23. BA has 2 wins and scored 7 with only 1 draw. Asante Kotoko really have an upper hand over BA United.

Since 1999, Kotoko has played 8 matches on match day 28 in the Premier League. They have won 6 and lost 2, scoring 11 and conceding 6. On the other hand, BA has played 2 matches on match day 28 since 2000. Unfortunately, they have lost all, conceded 5 goals and scored none. In a worst scenario, the last time they won an away game in the league was way back on 24th Oct 2004 (10 years 10 months). They defeated Tano Bofoakwa two goals to nil (0-2).

Amed Toure and Dauda Mohammed has scored the most goals for Kotoko this season, 11 and 5 respectively whiles Francis Kyeremeh and Danso Isaac has 4 and 1 respectively. How are the defense of BA United going to stand against a resurgent Asante Kotoko who are unbeaten in their last 4 games both home and away. BA United, on the flip side are yet to pick a win in 13 league matches as at now. The last time they won a match in the league was a 2-1 win against Berekum Chelsea on 26th April 2015 on match day 14.

This looks pretty much easy to predict but lets not forget there are surprises in football. Anything is bound to happen but a win for Kotoko is much expected.

Medeama SC    Vs   Hearts of Oak.

Only 2 points separates both teams, Meadeama and Hearts of Oak on the league log. The Tarkwa Mauves are 9th with 37 points whiles Hearts are 12th with 35 points. A defeat for either side on Sunday will see a drop to the relegation zone since clubs beneath them are playing at home. And all other things being equal, they will rise above them on the league table if they should win.

Since Kessben sold their Premiership status to Medeama in 2009, they have met 9 times. Medeama has won 5 times whiles Hearts has ONLY one win with 3 ending in drawn games. 25 goals has been produced in their clashes with Medeama netting 15 times and in turn allowing in 10 goals. Medeama has played Hearts 4 times at home. They have won 2 and drawn 2 and are yet to lose to Hearts at the Tarkwa TNA Park. 8 goals has been produced with Medeama scoring 5 whiles Hearts has scored 3.

The Tarkwa Mauves has 3 clean sheets in their last 5 matches played at home whiles Hearts have kept only 1 clean sheet (against Liberty)  in their last 5 outings. Generally, in their last 5 matches in the league, Medeama has 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 defeats whiles  Hearts has 3 wins and 2 loses. When it comes to goals, Medeama stands tall. Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah who is currently leading the goal king race has 18 goals for Medeama whiles Gilbert Fiamenyo and Foovi Aguidi has combined to score a total of 13 goals, 8 and 5 respectively for Hearts of Oak. The last 5 matches for Hearts on match day 28 since 2009 has seen them winning 3 and losing 2. Woefully, they have conceded on all match day 28 since 1999. On the flip side, Medeama are yet to draw or lose a match on match day 28 at home. They have played 4 and won all, scoring 8 and conceding 3.

Bechem United  Vs  Wa Allstars.

Wa Allstars  will travel from Wa to play relegation threaten Bechem United at the Park this Sunday on match day 28.  Bechem United who has lost only one match at home in the league will want to protect their home invincibility from there with a win so as to move away from the relegation zone. Allstars has a huge task on their hands to make Bechem,dance to their tune by picking all the three points as they lost at home to Liberty last week.

There  has been 5 meetings between them. Both have two wins with one ending in stalemate. Allstars has scored 5 whiles Bechem has 3 goals in their 8 goals produced. Allstars has 2 wins and 3 loses in their 5 matches played in the league. Bechem on the other hand has 1 win, 2 loses and 2 draws in their last 5 matches in the league.

The highest goal scorer for Bechem is Noah Martey who has 9 goals  whiles Kweku Asuandzie Baffour has 5 goals for Allstars. Bechem united has won 9 matches at home in their 12 matches played. They have lost 1 and drawn 2. Allstars, unimpressively has won only one match away, lost 9 and drawn 2 of their 12 matches played. They have picked 16 goals from their nets in the process and scored 6. Allstars has won 1, drawn 3 and lost 1 in their last 5 matches played on match day 28 since 2010.       

Ghana Premier League - Statistical Review Of Week 26

Let's look at some intriguing statistics after Week 26 games.

STATISTICS

• 439 - Total number of goals scored in the league, so far.
• 169 - Players who have scored in the league.
• 2.11 - Average number of goals registered per game.
• 18 - Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah (Medeama SC) has scored more goals than any player.
• 13 - Kofi Owusu (Brekum Chelsea) has 13 goals 
• 12 - Stephen Baffour (Brekum Chelsea) has 12 goals
• 11 - Nuhu Fuseini (New Edubiase) and Ahmed Toure (Kotoko) have 11 goals
• 2 - Yakubu Mohammed (AshGold) and Kennedy Ashia (Liberty) have scored 10 goals  each.
• 3 - Noah Martey (Bechem United), Sheriff Deo Mohammed (Inter Allies) and Richard Arhin (Aduana Stars) have 9 goals
• 3 - Number of players with 8 goals : Gilbert Fiamenyo (Hearts), Kwame Boatemg (Olympics) and Zakaria Mumuni (WAFA)
• 2 - Players with 7 goals each : Mumuni Zakaria (WAFA) and Dauda Mohammed (Kotoko)
• 2 - Players with 6 goals each : Bernard Morrison (AshGold) and Bernard Ofori (New Edubiase)
• 7 - Players with 5 goals : Doetse Agbashie (Olympics), Foovi Aguidi (Hearts), Asuandzie Baffoe (All Stars), Osman Muntaka (Lions), Kojo Poku (Hasaacas), Stephen Nyarko (Wa All Stars) and Emmanuel Ankobeah (Hasaacas)
• 9 - Players with 4 goals : Samuel Afful (Hasaacas), Alhassan Nuhu (Edubiase), Prince Acquah (Lions), Osman Sackey (Lions), Isaac Quansah (Lions) Francis Kyeremeh (BA United), Benjamin Bature (Medeama), Yaw Arnol (Bechem United) and Frederick Quayson (Hasaacas)
• 17 - Players with 3 goals each.
• 36 - Number of players with 2 goals each
• 139 - Total number of home wins recorded in the league
• 22 - Total number of away wins recorded in the league
• 47 - Number of drawn games recorded this season with just 28 ending in a scoring draw
• 309 - Total number of goals scored by home teams
• 130 - Represents goals scored by visiting clubs
• 221 - Goals scored in the first half
• 218 - Goals scored in the second half
• 1-30 mins - 132 goals have been scored within this period
• 31-60 mins - 161 goals have been scored within this period
• 61-90 mins - 146 goals have been recorded in this period
• 54 - Number of penalties scored in this year's league out of a total 68

Ghana Premier League - Statistical Review Of Week 25

Let's look at some intriguing statistics after Week 25 games.

STATISTICS

• 414 - Total number of goals scored in the league, so far.
• 163 - Players who have scored in the league.
• 2.07 - Average number of goals registered per game.
• 17 - Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah (Medeama SC) has scored more goals than any player.
• 12 - Kofi Owusu (Brekum Chelsea) has 12 goals 
• 11 - Nuhu Fuseini (New Edubiase) and Stephen Baffour (Brekum Chelsea) have 11 goals
• 3 - Amed Toure (Kotoko), Yakubu Mohammed (AshGold) and Kennedy Ashia (Liberty) have scored 10 goals  each.
• 2 - Noah Martey (Bechem United) and Richard Arhin (Aduana Stars) have 9 goals
• 3 - Number of players with 8 goals : Gilbert Fiamenyo (Hearts), Kwame Boatemg (Olympics) and Mo Sheriff Deo (Inter Allies)
• 2 - Players with 7 goals each : Mumuni Zakaria (WAFA) and Martin Antwi (WAFA)
• 2 - Players with 6 goals each : Bernard Morrison (AshGold) and Dauda Mohammed (Kotoko)
• 4 - Players with 5 goals : Kojo Poku (Hasaacas), Bernard Ofori (Edubiase), Stephen Nyarko (Wa All Stars) and Emmanuel Ankobeah (Hasaacas)
• 8 - Players with 4 goals : Samuel Afful (Hasaacas), Osman Muntaka (Lions), Francis Kyeremeh (BA United), Doetse Agbashie (Olympics), Asuandzie Baffoe (Wa All Stars), Foovi Aguidi (Hearts), Yaw Arnol (Bechem United), and Frederick Quayson (Hasaacas)
• 21 - Players with 3 goals each.
• 36 - Number of players with 2 goals each
• 134 - Total number of home wins recorded in the league
• 21 - Total number of away wins recorded in the league
• 45 - Number of drawn games recorded this season with just 27 ending in a scoring draw
• 291 - Total number of goals scored by home teams
• 123 - Represents goals scored by visiting clubs
• 210 - Goals scored in the first half
• 204 - Goals scored in the second half
• 1-30 mins - 123 goals have been scored within this period
• 31-60 mins - 155 goals have been scored within this period
• 61-90 mins - 136 goals have been recorded in this period
• 51 - Number of penalties scored in this year's league out of a total 65

WEEK 27 ROUND UP OF THE FIRST CAPITAL PLUS BANK PREMIER LEAGUE MATCHES.

Writer:: Amoah Kofi

Twitter:: @milikophy

Facebook:: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

8 league matches were played across various league centers of the First Capital Plus Bank Premier League as it entered week 27 with few surprising score lines. Before week 27 matches, clubs such as Great Olympics and Accra Hearts of Oak were to at least draw or pick a win in their respective matches since their position on the league log were nothing to write home about but a relegation bound.

The title chase was on at the top with Aduana Fc giving league leaders Ashanti Gold a hot chase with only 1 point separating them and the battle for top four was also in contest as Inter Allies were hosting Kumasi Asante Kotoko at the Tema Astro turf.

At the Sekondi stadium, Hasaacas made sure relegation threatened Heart of Lions had no chance for a point as Joseph Mugre scored an early goal in 14th minutes and the only goal to separate both sides. No surprise to their win as they have been very solid at home in this season’s league matches. WAFA on the other hand made sure they dash away Berekum Chelsea's hopes of annexing the league trophy for the second time since 2010 by defeating them two goals to one. Martin Antwi scored his 8th goal of the season in the 28th minutes whiles national U-20 striker Samuel Tetteh deepened Chelsea's woes by scoring the second goal in the 57th minutes. Striker Kofi Owusu pulled one back in the 77th minutes as it ended 2-1 at the Sogakope park.

Elsewhere at the Sunyani Coronation Park, BA United played host to New Edubiase with both picking a point at the end. Former Berekum Chelsea striker Bismark Idun opened the scoring for New Edubiase in the 65th minutes and as quickly as possible BA United pulled leveled 4 minutes later in the 69th minutes through Samuel Norgbey. No goals were recorded as it stayed one all.

To prevent any relegation stories and permutations with 3 matches to go, Hearts of Oak had no excuse than to pick all the three points as they were 15th on the league log. True to it, Kenneth Okoro scored his second goal of the season and the only goal in the 24th minutes as Hearts held on to it to pick the maximum three points at stake. Currently 12th on the league table and as comfortable as it could be for them for now with 3 matches to end the league season. Far away at the Wa park, little did we give Liberty any chance of causing a stir to pick not even one but defied all odds to pick all the three points at stake. Allstars were the favorite to dawn Liberty as they lost away 3-1 to Kotoko in midweek at the Baba Yara stadium with Kweku Asuandzie Baffour scoring a spectacular non drop volley against Kotoko in midweek, opened the goal account in the 16th minutes for Wa Allstars. His 6^th goal in the season so far. 3 minutes later Liberty pulled parity through Felix Addo in the 19th minutes and with 11 minutes to full time; Kennedy Ashia scored the match winner in the 79th minutes for Liberty to pick all the three points and their second away win in the season.

At the Obuasi Len Clay Park, league leaders Ashanti Gold bit their nails as they were nearly stunned at their own backyard but managed a crucial 2-1 win over Medeama. Kwesi Donsu who has been impressive for Medeama this season made his presence felt as he scored an early goal in the 7th minutes for the mauves. Ivorian international Didier Kore cancelled Medeama's lead in the 32nd minutes and rounded it up with a neatly converted penalty in the 80th minutes to keep their title hopes alive. At the Dormaa park, which has been a no go area for visiting clubs rather experienced a cold feeling as Great Olympics picked a point to make sure they survive relegation and see Aduana's one point chase tripled to three points. Isaac Nyarko scored his first goal of the season for Olympics in the 60th minutes but Nana Yaw Afriyie scored a late penalty with 7 minutes to go in the 83rd minutes to end the tie one all.

Reports emanated from the Tema Park has it that both Inter Allies and Asante Kotoko fluff their chances to carry the day as they missed begging chances in both first and second half. Kotoko made only one change to their squad that thrashed Allstars in midweek with Amed Toure taking youngster Dauda Mohammed's place in the starting lineup. After both missing alot of chances, they stayed resolute and firmed at the back as it ended goalless in Tema.

WHAT GHANA'S 4 REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE BRINGING INTO THE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE THIS SEASON.

Writer:: Amoah Kofi

Twitter:: @milikykophy

Facebook:: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

The English Premier League (EPL) has never been bereft of excitement, passion, scream for goal by commentators, sadness, joy and most unavoidably surprises. Undoubtedly, one of the best and most popular league in the world.

From players, coaches, team managers and team owners up to the Premier League board members each will be marking time and patiently marching straight into a brand new 2015/2016 league season. The marketability and branding of the EPL makes matches a delight to watch with mouth watering encounters, sound bytes, rivalry and interviews. The skills, thrilling passion and agility showed by smaller clubs per se withstanding the bullying muscle of the so called big clubs are incredible. Such matches are very fascinating and interesting.

Luckily, Ghana won't be left out the train as André Ayew, Jeffrey Schlupp, Christian Atsu and Jordan Ayew makes up the 4 Ghanaian quartets who will be representing the West African country on the 8th of August 2015 as the league kick start. How are these players going to fare as the intensity and the pressure begins to build up. Will they be able to face their fans, put up a spirited performance and wave their hands in the air after matches or face the vibrant media to answer series of question on poor performances. A question every EPL fan will be asking. Their speed, passes, accuracy, technique and other sporting abilities will be taken into play and well monitored in the course of the league.

ANDRÉ   DEDE   AYEW (SWANSEA).

25 year old André Morgan Rami Ayew, affectionately called Dede Ayew in the media circles was born on 17th Dec 1989 in France. The second son of the 3 time African footballer of the year, Abedi Ayew Pele, the maestro they call him. He has risen from the grassroots and now a force to reckon with in the world of football.

Dede  Ayew began his professional football by signing for his father's former club, Olympiqué Marseille in 2005 and made his debut at the age of 14.  Due to his quick learning in the game and a promise of a bright future he wasn't done away with but loaned to Lorient and Arles Avignon. His brilliance and skills helped Avignon gain promotion to the French Ligue 1 in 2010.  Earlier on he captained Ghana's U-20 side to win gold at the World Youth tournament in Egypt. The first African side to achieve this remarkable feat. We famously remember his 25 yard strike against England in the group stage which Ghana won by four goals to nil. He was recalled to join the Marseille's senior team after his exploits. Since then, he has played a total of 160 matches for Olympiqué Marseille and scored 44 goals before going on a free transfer to English Premier League side Swansea.

One thing that we have never lost sight of him is his passion for the game and commitment. We have seen him clapping several times to urge his team mates on when the going gets tough. And the painful part is the beat on his chest when he scores. Ouch, that could be painful. He did same in Ghana's game against USA at the just ended 2014 world cup when he scored the equalizer and Ghana’s second game against Germany. Continuously beating his chest, his kind of goal celebration. This is a true reflection of a self motivated player with a die in the wood commitment to his work.

He is one player who has enormous offensive abilities often than not tracks back to help the defense

. He enjoys dribbling around to create space for strikers to coolly finish up a pass from him. Taking defenders on has been one of his trademark. His aerial duels has been very remarkable and one thing he does often in games is to hold on to the ball. He has perfected that in times past and no wonder it won a penalty for Ghana in South Africa 2010 world cup match against Australia. That has always attracted fouls for him and his team. Are these the only qualities embedded in him? No. One thing he also enjoys is to play short passes and a quick one two to beat on rushing defenders. Above all, he likes to cut in from sides and dazzles in laying off. Such an incredible and talented player he is.

On the flip side, certain dimensions to his play is his frequent fouls and one thing you will never see Dede Ayew do much repeatedly in matches is crosses. Crossing from either right or left hasn't been his trademark. Not to say he doesn't, he does, but the question is how frequent is it. He will rather hold on to the ball, dribble and attract a foul from the opponent.

This is the kind of skills, agility and foresight the Premier League followers will be enjoying from him when the 2015/2016 league kick start.

CHRISTIAN   ATSU (AFC BOURNEMOUTH).

Christian Atsu Twasam  born on 10th January 1992 is  currently a player of Chelsea but loaned to AFC Bournemouth. He is one player I like to see him play most often because of his nimble footed and excellent reading of the game.

Atsu began his football career with Portuguese outfit FC Porto but due to lack of playing time, he was loaned to Rio Ave. He join Porto once again after his loan period expired and was eventually sold to Premier League side Chelsea for £3.5m in 2013. As if the loan spree was going to see an abrupt end, he was loaned on arrival to Vittesse  Arhem in the Holland Erevidise top flight league where he played 30 games and scored 5 goals. In a bit for more playing time, a taste of the Premiership and close monitoring, he was loaned out once again to Premier League outfit Everton where he had a torrid time. He struggled for playing time and sometimes no where to be found at the team's bench. Despite being selected by CAF as the most valuable player (MVP) in the African Cup of Nations staged in Equatorial-Guinea, he only made 13 appearances in all competitions. To sum it up, he created 5 chances and made 1 defensive error. One of his worst season I guess.

Atsu now has another opportunity to prove his critics wrong as he will be beginning the season with newly promoted side AFC Bournemouth. His attributes has been that of taking set pieces and in addition takes delight in taking long range shorts. A typical example to this is his sumptuous 30 yard strike from the right side of the midfield to beat Guinean goalkeeper Naby Yatara in the Cup of Nations. His dribbling skills of using both feet's to go past defenders is such incredible and one good thing about it is, he has bettered it with confidence. He moves the ball with much confidence giving incisive and defense splitting passes in such aplomb. That is the beast he is growing himself into. And in the coming years, he will be a real force. He and Dede Ayew enjoys similar playing styles, cutting inside from either right or left, playing short passes and laying off. One thing opponents will not want to let glaring to him is an opportunity for a counter attack. He will thankfully grab that opportunity and make it count. A plus to his football career is his strength and agility withstanding the might of bulky defenders. Diving to win fouls has never been an option for him.

One thing he needs to work on is his aerial duels, tackling and defensive contributions. If worked on, he will be a delight to watch especially watching him play along side another African compatriot Max Gradel who is signed from St. Etienne.We wait for eye catching football and crazy skills as fingers are crossed.

JEFFREY  SCHLUPP (LEICESTER CITY).

Born in Germany, Hamburg on the 23 of Dec 1992 and plays for Leicester City in the English Premier League. Schlupp is a product of Leicester City's youth academy. His commitment and hard work has been unquestionable. A versatile player he is, can play an attacking role and defend as well. In defense, he will give you a sweet surging runs at the laterals, crossing and covering up in midfield. A sweet display at either left or right back. A real solider on duty defending his territories. Appearing 34 times for Leicester City last season and scoring 4 goals  isn't anything surprising.

The crowd, media, boos, and press won't be anything new to him as this season will be his second spell in the EPL. He is easily identified when in tussle or challenge for a ball. His has much strength to add to his qualities, shoving off attackers and wingers. His defense contributions and ball interception was spot on last season. With a few miscalculated attempt, generally he has been on top. His ball blocking has been timely. Long balls and shots has been one thing he tried repeatedly for Leicester last season.

But one demerit I have heard the English commentators and the Daily Mail report about him in matches is his momentarily loss of concentration. That can cause any team a defeat on any good day. With his game against Malawi for the Black Stars at the Accra Sports Stadium, he shown nothing than a player maturing into an exceptional player and even had a goal to his effort. This new season will see new Jeffrey Schlupp giving a hell of a time to teams in the EPL.

JORDAN   PIERRE   AYEW (ASTON VILLA).

23 year old Jordan Ayew, a brother to Andre Dede Ayew, who is now a Villain started his football career with Lyon Duchere in France from 2000 to 2006. In 2006, he joined Olympiqué Marseille as a trainee and subsequently signed a professional contract in 2009. He signed 3 years with Marseille. He made his debut on 16 Dec, 2009 against Lorient scoring in the process. He played for Marseille from 2009 to 2014 making 111 appearances and scoring 14. He moved from Marseille to Lorient in 2014 playing 29 times and netting 12 times last season.

Jordan has been criticized by a lot of  Ghanaians in time past because of where he normally positions his jersey pants in matches. Pulling it just below his buttocks as if is almost going down (called ‘otto phister’ in Ghana).  And his recent form for the Black Stars. But critically, he is a player who comes into the frame with a huge huge prospect. Given time and patience he will flourish with style and swag. No wonder he showed glimpses of it at the just ended African Cup of Nations held in Equatorial-Guinea. He has 28 appearance for the Stars and has scored 8 goals to his credit.

He has played for Marseille, Sochaux and Lorient in the French Lique 1 and currently joined his brother in the English Premier League signing for Aston Villa. Jordan share similar playing qualities with his brother. His speed, long range shots and dribbling technique has been his major trademark. To talk of speed, then he has found the right league to ply his trade. The EPL has been noted for this over the years. He is a player who has improved in the attacking role and can play as an arrow head or cut in from either right or the left side of attack. He enjoyed a 59% shot accuracy and created 34 chances last season for Lorient. He doesn't only score but creates goal scoring opportunities for others. A trait we see his senior brother Dede Ayew.

A lacking effect has been his discipline on the field of play. He picked 8 yellow cards last season for 

Lorient which could be a disturbing effect for him as a striker. His temperament control has also been a suspect. The EPL will be a hell of breeding grounds if such is not controlled. But on a whole, he is one person who fights and never give up on the field. He is a fighter and that is what the EPL is all about.

With EPL starting this weekend, we hope and pray for injury free season as these players entertain and excite us with good performances. Atsu's side Bournemouth will play at home to Jordan's Aston Villa at 2:00pm. At the same time, Schlupp's Leicester City will welcome Sunderland and in a late kick off, current champions Chelsea will begin their title defence against Dede Ayew's Swansea City at 4:30 pm.

Ghana Premier League - Statistical Review Of Week 24

Let's look at some intriguing statistics after Week 24 games.

STATISTICS

• 401 - Total number of goals scored in the league, so far.
• 161 - Players who have scored in the league.
• 2.09 - Average number of goals registered per game.
• 16 - Nathaniel Ohene Asamoah (Medeama SC) has scored more goals than any player.
• 12 - Kofi Owusu (Brekum Chelsea) has 12 goals 
• 11 - Nuhu Fuseini (New Edubiase) has 11 goals
• 4 - Amed Toure (Kotoko), Stephen Baffour (Brekum Chelsea), Yakubu Mohammed (AshGold) and Kennedy Ashia (Liberty) have scored 10 goals 
• 1 - Noah Martey (Bechem United) has 9 goals
• 3 - Number of players with 8 goals : Gilbert Fiamenyo (Hearts), Richard Arhin (Aduana Stars) and Mo Sheriff Deo (Inter Allies)
• 3 - Players with 7 goals each : Kwame Boateng (Olympics), Mumuni Zakaria (WAFA) and Martin Antwi (WAFA)
• 1 - Players with 6 goals each : Bernard Morrison (AshGold)
• 3 - Players with 5 goals : Bernard Ofori (Edubiase), Stephen Nyarko (Wa All Stars) and Emmanuel Ankobeah (Hasaacas)
• 10 - Players with 4 goals : Samuel Afful (Hasaacas), Osman Muntaka (Lions), Francis Kyeremeh (BA United), Doetse Agbashie (Olympics), Asuandzie Baffoe (Wa All Stars), Foovi Aguidi (Hearts), Dauda Mohammed (Kotoko), Yaw Arnol (Bechem United), Kojo Poku (Hasaacas) and Frederick Quayson (Hasaacas)
• 19 - Players with 3 goals each.
• 36 - Number of players with 2 goals each
• 131 - Total number of home wins recorded in the league
• 19 - Total number of away wins recorded in the league
• 42 - Number of drawn games recorded this season with just 25 ending in a scoring draw
• 284 - Total number of goals scored by home teams
• 117 - Represents goals scored by visiting clubs
• 203 - Goals scored in the first half
• 198 - Goals scored in the second half
• 1-30 mins - 116 goals have been scored within this period
• 31-60 mins - 154 goals have been scored within this period
• 61-90 mins - 131 goals have been recorded in this period
• 49 - Number of penalties scored in this year's league out of a total 61
• 8 - Kofi Owusu is the 8th player to score in three (3) successive games

GHANA PREMIER LEAGUE - Statistical Preview to Week 25 (Part 2).

Writer: Amoah Kofi

Twitter: @Milikykophy

Facebook: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

Hasaacas   Vs   Olympics.

Yusif Basigi's Hasaacas will be welcoming Accra base Great Olympics in the 25th week fixture at the Sekondi Sports stadium this weekend. This encounter is very cagey for Olympics who are 15th on the league table with 29 points. Olympics will somehow have the bragging rights going into this match since they won the first encounter at the Ohene Djan stadium  by two goals to nil.

In contrast, it is a tall order for Olympics simply because Hasaacas are yet to lose a game in their last 12 home matches played in the league. They have won 9 and drawn 3, scored 22 and conceded 7. Olympics, on the other has played 12 matches as guest to other clubs in the league. They have won 1 (against Liberty), lost 8 and drawn 3. They have let in 15 goals and scored a paltry of 5 goals.

This clash will be Hasaacas fourth time of meeting Accra base clubs in the league. They have won 2 (against Inter Allies and Liberty) and drawn 1 (Hearts of Oak), scoring 6 and conceding 3 in their process. Quite interestingly, Olympics have scored only 1 in their last 6 outings whiles Hasaacas has also conceded only 1 goal at home in their last 5 matches played in the league. On level grounds, both clubs have 3 wins, 1 loss and 1 drawn game in their last 5 matches. This will be an insurmountable task for Olympics to turn the tables around against 7th placed Hasaacas who has shown an impressive performance in home matches.

One official of Olympics was heard on air saying they are now beginning to play their league matches and with 6 matches to go, let's see what happens in their battle to stay in the league.

Ashanti Gold   Vs   Liberty Proff.

The Obuasi Len Clay park won't be a  fertile ground for any visiting club as the league leaders Ashanti Gold are without a win in their last two matches which has seen second placed Berekum Chelsea cutting their seven points lead to just two points. Liberty will have to take the bull by its horn if they are to cause any surprise and stir in the Obuasi township this weekend. The atmosphere will be very much unpleasant for Liberty as the miners will by fair means want to extend their lead at the top pending any unfavorable results at the Berekum Golden City Park.

The last 23 meetings between these two clubs has seen Ashanti Gold winning 10, losing 6 and drawing 7. 44 goals has been produced in their clashes. Ashgold has score 24 and let in 20 goals. This will be Ashanti Gold's fourth time of meeting Accra base clubs in the league. They are yet to lose a game in their three meetings with them, winning two and drawing 1. On the flip side, Liberty are yet to win a match and score as well in Ashanti Region against Ashanti base clubs, losing 1-0 against Kotoko and drawing goalless with New Edubiase. Liberty are yet to win a match away from home in the league, losing 6 and drawing 6, scoring 4 and conceding 14. Ashanti Gold has a 100% record at home in their 12 matches played. They are yet to lose a match at home, winning 9 and drawing 3. They have whacked in 19 and let in 6 goals. To add to their records, Ashgold are yet to concede at home in 180 mins of football. Quite sadly, both clubs have 1 win, 3 losses and 1 drawn game in their last 5 matches in the league.

Ashgold fluff their chances in their game against Kotoko last weekend to extend their lead when Chelsea lost 2-1 to Bechem United. The miners could do a double over Liberty this weekend as they won the first leg by 0-1

.

WAFA   Vs   Bechem United.

High flying WAFA will once again dazzle their supporters in Sogakope to a Barcelona-like kind of football as they play home to Brong Ahafo side Bechem United. Their style of play is the entertainment kind with free flow football and sweet inter-positional switches by players. Very sumptuous. There is nothing one could do than to clap when WAFA are in their elements. They did same against current champions Asante Kotoko and won by a goal to nil.

A morale booster for WAFA against Bechem United as the disciplinary committee cleared their coach, John Killa of any wrong doings in their clash against New Edubiase in Kumasi as he was sent to the dressing room in the first half for allegedly spitting on the fourth referee. He will be at the bench to streamline things for WAFA to help them pick a win against Bechem United. WAFA will be hoping Bechem's away woes continue as they drew one all in the first round and count on it to help them pick the maximum three points making it four in all.

Ironically, 4 points separates them on the league log as WAFA has 36 whiles Bechem also has 32. Interestingly, WAFA is 5th whiles Bechem is coolly placed 12th on the league table. A huge task awaits Bechem as WAFA has won 9 matches at home, lost 1 and drawn 2 in their 12 matches played at home. Shamefully, Bechem has ONLY 1 draw and lost 11 in 12 away matches. They have conceded  23 scored 8 and still yet to win an away match. In their last 5 matches, both have 3 loses and 2 wins.

Bechem's best will be a draw game as WAFA returns home after their defeat to Liberty last week.

Berekum Chelsea  Vs  Medeama SC

These two clubs have met 9 times dating back to 7th Nov, 2010. Chelsea has won 3, lost 5 and drawn 1. 15 goals has been produced in their clashes with Chelsea scoring 7 and conceding 8. Chelsea are currently second on the league table with 39 points whiles Medeama are also 9th with 33 points. This is no fluke for Chelsea as former Mighty Jet's attacker Kofi Owusu and Stephen Baffour are the best pair in the league so far scoring more than 17 goals between them. On the side of Medeama, Nathaniel Asamoah leads the goal king charts with 16 goals but it seems his goals aren't enough to push them to challenge for the title as they are 9th on the league table.

Chelsea have drawn only one match at home (against Kotoko) and impressively won 11 of their 12 matches in the league this season. They have scored 24 at home and conceded 7. Far more impressive, they are unbeaten at home in 2 years and 6 months now. In 180 mins of football (2 games), they are yet to concede a goal at home. In other revelation, Medeama SC have 5 draws in their 12 away matches and lost 7. They have let in 17 and scored 8. In their last 5 matches, Chelsea has 3 wins, 1 loss and 1 draw whiles Medeama has 1 win, 2 loses and 2 draws.

With the Golden City Park being a dreaded grounds for visiting clubs, we might be seeing Medeama being added to the list of casualties at the hands of Chelsea come Sunday.

BA United   Vs    Aduana FC.

The premier league is almost done and dusted for bottom languishing BA United as they play Aduana football club in a regional derby at the Sunyani Coronation Park. BA United are bottom on the league log with 18 points whiles Aduana is third with 38 points. A whopping 20 points difference between them.

One official of BA United was heard this week placing a curse on the team that whoever, being it the head coach, players, team official or  any board member who allows himself to be compromise by any of the opposing teams base on the fact they are almost relegated with have a score to settle in the spiritual world. This is very bad in association football and should be condemned. Such behaviour and comments should have warranted him to face the wrath of the disciplinary committee and punished severely to serve as deterrent to others but nothing has been done as at now. There is a saying that he who alleges got to proof so we keep our fingers crossed for now as they might be gathering enough evidence to this.

There have been 3 meetings between these two clubs in the league in time past. Aduana has won 2 and lost 1. BA United are yet to score a goal against Aduana in 180 minutes of football. Far more worse scenario, since BA United won 2-1 against Chelsea at home on match day 14, they have gone winless in 10 league games, 900 minutes of football. This is very serious. On the flip side, Aduana have also scored 1 goal in their last 5 away matches.

This match could end in a draw but wont be surprise to see Aduana pick all the three points.

Inter Allies   Vs   Heart of Lions.

Inter Allies will be seeking a fresh start against Ho based Heart of Lions as they saw their eight match unbeaten run come to an end against Aduana FC over the weekend. They will have to regroup and get the ducks in line to get the results coming in once again. This match wont be that easy for both sides especially Lions, who aren't safe on the league log and could see themselves drop from their 13th position to the relegation zone once again. There is pride as stake for both clubs as the Tema stadium will be such a busy grounds for them this weeken

d.

These two clubs have battle it out on 3 occasions. Two has ended in draw whiles Lions have won one. 7 goals has been produced with Inter Allies scoring 3 and conceding 4. The points gab between them is not that wide but their position on the league table is very much fascinating. Allies are 4th with 36 points whiles Lions are 13th with 31 points. So interesting. 5 points gab between them.

At home, Inter Allies are yet to concede in 270 minutes of football (3 matches). Quite a remarkable feat by them. In general, they have conceded ONLY 4 goals at home in their 12 matches played in the league so far. Far more applaudable  feat, Allies have won 4 and lost 1 of their last 5 matches played in the league. Battling Lions on the other hand has won 2, lost 2 and drawn 1 of their last 5 matches. Quite dangerously, Lions are the third joint team with Bechem United to concede the highest number of goals in the league so far letting in 31 goals. BA United has more, allowing 37 goals in their nets.

The best results for Lions will be a drawn game but who knows, they could manage a win against all odds as uncertainty surrounding football is incomprehensible.

WA Allstars   Vs  New Edubiase.

Wa Allstars and New Edubiase has battled it out on 11 occasions. Their first ever meeting dates back to 20th Dec, 2009. Both teams have enjoyed 4 wins with 3 ending in stalemate. In these clashes, 19 goals has been produced with Allstars scoring 11 and whiles Edubiase has 8 goals.  New Edubiase are gradually lifting themselves up to escape the slippery edges of relegation. This in effect culminates their performance which saw them edged past the phobians, Hearts of Oak last week Saturday by defeating them two goals to one at the Obuasi Len Clay Park.

Edubiase are 10th on the league table with 33 points and with two points separating 6th placed Allstars, an all out is what is needed by Anthony Kommeh's boys to catch them and be on level points. Sadly, Edubiase is the second team apart from BA United to concede the highest number of goals so far.

Allstars have 1 win in their last 5 matches, drawing 2 and losing 2. Edubiase, impressively has 3 wins, 1 loss and 1 draw in their last 5 matches. But one herculean task that awaits Edubiase is that,

 Allstars are yet to concede a goal at home in 540 minutes of football (6 matches) after conceding a goal against Inter Allies in their 2-1 win  whiles Edubiase has also failed to score in two outings now (180 minutes).

Edubiase have their own destiny in their hands as a defeat will definitely change their current position on the league table. A very difficult match for both sides but a slim win for Allstars won't be surprising.

GHANA PREMIER LEAGUE -STATISCAL PREVIEW TO MATCH DAY 25 (Part 1).

Writer: Amoah Kofi
Twitter: @Milikykophy
Facebook: Miliky-Amoah Kophy

Hearts of Oak   Vs  Asante Kotoko.

Old rivalry rekindled.

In Italy, it is called Derby della Madonnina between AC Milan and Inter Milan. It dates back to 1908 with Milan winning 111, drawing 77 and losing 105. In England, Liverpool and Manchester United has produced fierce battles with their first meeting coming in 1894. There have been 119 trophies between them since then. The mention of "Mother of all battles" over a century now talks of Greece most successful clubs in the shape of Olympiacos and Panathinaikos. And in Spain, there is the "El-Classio" between Barcelona and Real Madrid dating back to 1902 with Barcelona winning 105, drawing 56 and losing 92.

In Africa, the meeting between Zamalek and Al Ahly in Egypt has never been short of tension and violence so as Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa has produced similar heat and nerve cracking moments. In West Africa, Ghana to be precise, the meeting between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko has produced and continued to produce fire works and charge mood which changes everything in the country in terms of football.

Pundits, connoisseurs, analyst, sports broadcasters and fans has given various names to their clashes. The latest and most common in recent years in papers, on radio and television is the "Ghana's version of El-Classico". But whatever the title is, it promises to be a crucial encounter and a super clash between them this time around base on their league performance this season.

Undoubtedly, the two most successful clubs in Ghana will meet this Sunday on the 2nd of July 2015. The whole of Accra town will come to a standstill so as Ghana as Hearts battles Kotoko in a fight for a breath to sustain life in the league. In our football calender, it is the biggest clash and no doubt it is dabbed category A match by the FA because of the number of followers they command.

As usual, the braggadocio style attain by their supporters has already began. Right from their matches in week 24, the heat and arguments as to who will carry the day come Sunday started. This will be nothing short of a crucial encounter pending their current form in the league and position on the league table. The Ohene Djan sports stadium will see both old and current management and board members from both Kotoko and Hearts in a bit to give morale support to their teams and urge them to victory. This is very remarkable and needs to be commended. All hands on deck for now.

Former Kotoko player and current management chairman, Opoku Nti was speaking to the media this week and made it emphatically clear that he does not recall a season in which both Kotoko and Hearts are meeting in such a manner that a win by one, probably Kotoko, will so-to-say sink Hearts further to relegation. In his playing days for Kotoko and in football management, he can't remember such an incident happening. This is what makes this year's clash much more different from previous ones.

This year's clash will be the 102nd meeting between Hearts and Kotoko as history has it. Hearts has 34 wins whiles Kotoko has 31 with 36 ending in stalemate. Their meetings dates back to 1958 where they first met in Kumasi at Jackson Park. Hearts led Kotoko by 2-4 but the game ended abruptly and was rescheduled. Hearts won the replay by 2-5. In Accra, they have met 52 times with Hearts slightly on top with 15 wins and closely followed by 14 wins for Kotoko whiles 23 has ended in drawn games. The first ever meeting in Accra ended 2-4 in favour of Kotoko on Sunday 16th Nov,1958. In addition, since Ghana started the Premier League system in 1993/1994, they have met 40 times with Hearts of Oak having the lions share of 15 wins whiles Kotoko has 8. 17 has ended in stalemate. In their last 10 matches from 14th March 2010 to 7th Feb 2015, both have 3 wins and 4 ending in a draw with 11 goals being produced. This will be Kotoko's third visit to the capital city this season. They won 2-3 against relegation threaten Great Olympics and lost 3-1 to Liberty Professionals. In contrast, Hearts are yet to win a match against teams from Ashanti Region at their home grounds. They lost 1-2 to New Edubiase and drew 2-2 with league leaders Ashanti Gold. Hearts has played 12 home matches in the league so far. They have won 6, lost 2 and drawn 4. They have scored 19 goals and let in 11. Interestingly, Hearts has conceded the first goal in four matches of their last 5 matches in total. Except Heart of Lions which they managed to score first and won by 4-0, they conceded first against BA United, Hasaacas, Aduana, New Edubiase and lost on all occasions.

Kotoko on the other hand has played 12 league matches as guest this season. They have won 3, lost 5 and drawn 4. They have let in 16 goals and scored 14. One thing gaining grounds with Kotoko is that they are yet to score in their last two outings. Drew goalless with Medeama and lost by a goal to nil against WAFA.

Well, with these, missing this super clash and epic encounter will be unpardonable. There is everything to play for in this match as both are relegation threatened. Join me at the Ohene Djan stadium to witness this thrilling encounter. If not, sit behind your TV set and in the wake of the power fluctuation, get to a spot or a corner where there is power to catch a glimpse of it. Better still stay glue to your radio set for commentary as Kotoko and Hearts  dazzles us with skills, tenacity, agility and a beautiful kind of football on Sunday.

This is not to say Hearts and Kotoko's clash will be the only match to be played on Sunday. There will be seven other league matches across the various league centers but as big as their clash has been in previous years, it will always overshadow other league matches. This is one thing we have to humbly accept.

League leaders Ashanti Gold will meet Dansoman base Liberty Professionals at Obuasi to try and keep their title hopes alive. BA United will welcome Aduana FC in a regional derby at the Sunyani Coronation Park whiles Berekum Chelsea will be giving league leaders Ashanti Gold a hot chase in a bit to unseat them as they play at home to Medeama SC. Other matches include WAFA playing at home to Bechem United whiles Wa base Allstars welcome New Edubiase. Inter Allies who ended their eight run unbeaten matches to Aduana last week will seek a revival against another relegation threatened club Heart of Lions at the Tema Astro turf whiles Hasaacas plays Olympics at home.