Hearts, Kotoko face defining tests in GPL

Asante Kotoko and Aduana FC will renew their growing rivalry tomorrow when they clash in a crunch Ghana Premier League (GPL) Match week 4 encounter at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

The Porcupine Warriors will be eager to return to winning ways after sharing the spoils with FC Samartex 1996 in their previous outing in Samreboi.

Playing in front of their home supporters, Kotoko would be expected to approach the game with greater urgency as they seek to strengthen their position on the league table.

Coach Eric Tinkler has come under increasing attention from supporters following Kotoko’s performances, with fans expecting the South African coach to find the right balance and deliver a result against an Aduana side that has already shown its competitive edge this season.

Aduana FC, however, will not arrive in Kumasi merely to make up the numbers; The ‘Ogya’ lads go into the contest with confidence after recording a 2-1 home victory over Karela United last weekend. 

Their recent form and previous games against the Reds could make Sunday’s encounter another stern test for Kotoko.

The likes of Richard Boadu, Hubert Gyau, Lawson Kyei Manu, Emmanuel Mamah, and Eric Gbeta among others will have to up their game if they harbour any aim of winning against a resolute attack of Mizack Afriyie, Stephen Amankona and Remember Boateng.

Before the Kotoko-Aduana showdown, Karela United FC and league leaders Hearts of Oak will open Match week 4 today at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, with kick-off scheduled for 3 p.m. 

Hearts will be looking to make a strong statement away from home, while Karela will be hoping to recover from their defeat to Aduana.

The Sunday line-up continues with FC Ashantigold hosting Debibi United FC at the Len Clay Stadium at 3p.m. 

The home side will look to use familiar surroundings to its advantage, but Debibi United coming from a 3-0 win over the weekend will be determined to frustrate their hosts and leave Obuasi with something to show for their efforts.

Elsewhere, at the TnA Stadium, defending champions Medeama SC will welcome Basake Holy Stars in another 3 p.m. fixture. 

Medeama will be expected to take control of the game from the start, while Holy Stars will seek to make the contest very difficult.

Young Apostles FC will also host Heart of Lions FC at the Wenchi Stadium while at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, Bechem United FC will face Dreams FC. Gold Stars SC will host Port City FC at the Bibiani Dun’s Park; Swedru All Blacks FC will welcome FC Samartex 1996 to the Swedru Stadium; just as Berekum Chelsea FC host Vision FC at the Golden City Park in Berekum. 

Chelsea will be hoping to impose themselves on the game early, while Vision FC will look to remain organised and punish any defensive lapses.

By Enoch Ntiamoah Siaw

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