Accra, July 11, GNA - Struggling Obuasi Ashgold have yet another daunting task at hand as they welcome Kumasi Asante Kotoko in the 14th Week premier league match at the Len Clay Stadium on Wednesday. The match promises to contain all the ingredients that thicken the rivalry that exists between the two sides in the premiership.
Perched surprisingly at an unimpressive eighth position in the premiership after selling out an attractive brand of football to fans in the Gala competition early this year, the miners appear crest fallen. And having lost their last game against Lions at Kpando, Ashgold are simply not in the mood to let go another three points this time at their own back yard.
This, coupled with their occasional significant victories recorded over Kotoko in league matches played at their home base is what will "dope" them to chase all three points at stake on Wednesday.
However, the desire of Kotoko to keep their championship aspirations on course by jumping to the top spot when leaders Hearts of Oak slip, will on the other hand, serve as a stimulant for them to target their second away win in the league.
A look at the records of the fabulous lads speaks of their unimpressive away performance, as they have won only a match in the season, confirming them as poor travellers, thus tilting the scale in favour of the gold diggers.
But the ability of the coaches of the two sides to apply the needed tactical strategies, as well as the output of the 22 players on the pitch will be the decisive factor.
Should Karimu Zito of Kotoko get his formula right by using the right materials for the game to implement his plans, the three points might shoot up Kotoko's haul.
The onus is now on the likes of Emmanuel Osei Kuffour, Shaibu Yakubu, Mathew Atiogbe and the front men of Ashgold to place the ball in the net at the least opportunity, whilst Kofi Amoako and his men at the defence will also have to embark on extra duty to stop George Yamoah, Nasiru Ghani, Douglass Nkrumah and experienced Nii Odartey Lamptey from doing any damage.
From all indications, the match would surely put fans of the two sides in suspense for the entire duration of the game.
League leaders Accra Hearts of Oak will trek to the Gyandu Park in Sekondi on campaign to keep their slim lead on the table, whilst King Faisal will be aiming to reverse their string of defeats as they welcome Kade Hotspurs to the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
Real Tamale United (RTU) will return to their favourite Kaladan Park to worsen the plight of Power FC who lost their last game at home, and Liberty Professional are tipped to pick three points against Okwawu United at the Ohen Djan Sports Stadium in Accra.
At Tema, Heart of Lions will be the guests of Real Sportive whiles inform Berekum Arsenals engag Tano Boafoakwa at the Golden City Park in Berekum.