We brought you the match review, now we have 7 things we learned from matchday 3

UNREST IN MEDEAMA

Joy Sports correspondent for the Kotoko Medeama game, Kofi Asare, reported after the game of serious unrest in the Medeama camp. Swede Tom Strand had been rumored to be on his way out if he had lost the Kotoko game. Speculations were rife with former Amidaus coach Tony Lokko already linked to the job. To add insult to injury, reports indicate the coach was infuriated by the fact that the coaching staff resisted a substitution Strand wanted to make at halftime. He took a laid back posture throughout the second half and did not partake in the post-match conference. Asare reported the coach was locked in the dressing room to prevent the coach from making the sub. It clearly seems a power struggle in the Tarkwa club who are preparing to go to Africa. Whoever was behind Bismark Oppong’s substitution however must be lauded as Oppong fetched the leveler.

BUT MALIK AKOWUAH IS GHANA’S PIRLO

Disregard the free kick, disregard the sublime assist for Bismark Oppong and still Malik Akowuah displayed characteristics of Italian deep lying playmaker Andrea Pirlo. The former Ashantigold midfielder dictated the pace of the game in his quarterback position for the entire duration.He was the heartbeat for his side. Akowuah had a field day and picked his teammates time and again with wide range of passes. Composed in possession, efficient use of the ball and effective in the tackle were the highlights of Akowuah’s display. It comes as a big surprise Kotoko failed to close him down all game but Ghana has a gem of a midfielder in Akowuah. He is not our typical all action box to box midfielder.

AND SANTA SAI WAS PRESENT IN KUMASI

Michael Sai took the title of Santa Claus yesterday after gifting Kotoko two goals. Both goals, with all due respect could have been converted by any 60 year old granny. Such were the gifts presented to Bennet Ofori and Michael Yeboah. Sai came in to replace to Muntari Tagoe and judging by this display, he will find his way back to the bench. The reason for Tagoe’s absence is unknown but he needs to quickly return should Medeama overturn their bad start to their campaign and make a major impact on the CAF Confederations Cup.

WAKE UP..IT’S NO DREAM ANYMORE..DREAMS FC ARE WORTH IT

After beating Dwarfs and Bechem, many still termed Dreams FC superb start as a fluke but after holding their own against Inter Allies, CK Akonnour’s side must be taken seriously. On the astro turf in Tema where only WAFA can survive, Dreams twice took the lead and were only denied late on by a Prince Baffoe strike. Four points in six on the road in the Ghana Premier League is a fantastic achievement for any side and more so a new entrant. Their biggest bane however will be maintaining this high standard throughout the season but for now, Dreams are worth the hype.

KEN-YATS-DEFENCE

Hearts of Oak have still not conceded in three games. Much credit goes to Kenichi Yatsuhashi who is building a solid side with emphasis on the solid defensive foundation. The Japanese American has maintained the backline of Owusu Bempah, Kennedy Appiah, Robin Gnagne and Richard Akrofi for all three games and ably shielded by Emmanuel Sarbah Laryea. These five men have been well drilled to defend as a unit and individually. Keni must take plaudit for this especially when three (Bempah, Gnagne and Sarbah) out of these five were regulars in the Hearts disappointing campaign last season. It is inevitable they will concede at a point in the season but a mean defence is the starting point of winning a title. Keep at it Keni.27 games to go.

TETTEH AND WAFA WILL DISGRACE YOU

Seven goals in two home games is more than enough to terrify WAFA’s next opponent to Sogakope. Add this to the fact that you’ll be outplayed by these youngsters and you will be contemplating whether to make the trip to Sogakope or forfeit the three points. The youngsters have been scintillating on their home turf in two outings this season and from every indication, they will grow in leaps and bounds. WAFA took out Kotoko and now Hasaacas by 5 goals with Samuel Tetteh and Charles Boateng the chief architects. Pace, close control, good ball retention and good understanding of the game will undo many sides who will go to Sogakope. Tetteh was in and out of the WAFA side last season due to international commitment but should he have a run in the league this term, he will surely justify his call up to the Black Stars.

BASIGI AND HASMAL MUST CLOSE THE BACK DOOR

Three in Wa, two at Sekondi and five at Sekondi. Hasaacas have now conceded ten goals in their first three games. This is totally unacceptable for any elite division side. Hasmal will have to work on their defensive structure but it condemns them relegation sooner rather than later. The Sekondi side boast of a frontline of Afful, Bekoe and Arko but that is not a guarantee for victory. The game against Techiman is evident of Hasmal. They managed to score four but let in two. The days the frontline fail to function sees Hasmal in for a spanking. Still early days yet and Basigi must work extra hours on the defensive side of the game in training this week.

 

ON A SIDE NOTE..SAY A PRAYER FOR ADUANA

Aduana are in trouble. Three games, three defeats no goal scored. This is in sharp contrast to the talents at their disposal. The Dormaa side should they have their day will be one of the most exciting teams in the league. Let’s pray they recover and add more quality to the league.

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