Soccer News of Monday, 18 October 2004

Source: GNA

Attuquayefio still unhappy spite of Hearts' massive victory

Accra, Oct. 18, GNA - In spite Hearts of Oak's 5-1 resounding victory over Cameroonian side Sable d' Batie in the CAF Confederations Cup second round tie at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, head coach Jones Attuquayefio is still unhappy and could quit the club.

His displeasure was not as a result of lack of support from the players but rather the hostile attitude of the vociferous Hearts fans. The coach said he would not subscribe to the idea of fans making inputs in player selections for matches.

"We have won, but I'm still not a happy man. It's high time the fans realised that they cannot decide which player(s) are capable of honouring a particular match. This must stop else I will resign,"

Attuquayefio told the GNA Sports in a post match interview. According to coach Attuquayefio, he would only remain as the helmsman if the fans change their negative attitude and rather support the club through thick and thin.

He cited the club's league match against Sekondi Hasaacas last Wednesday where the two sides drew one-all at the Accra Sports Stadium accusing the fans of verbally assaulting the technical handlers because some of their favourites were not fielded.

"These fans are sometimes just ungrateful. Even if you win a match without their favourite players, they will deliberately refuse to recognize your efforts", he said.

The coach said Sunday's massive victory was a result of hard work and determination on the part of the playing body and the technical handlers.

"I had a meeting with the players prior to the match and reminded them of our recent poor results and the need for us to reverse the trend since our careers were at stake."

The coach said the meeting was fruitful and Sunday's results were indications of good thing to come.

He said with hard work the team could replicate the achievement in 2000 where it conquered Africa in the Champions League and the Supper Cup.

This, the coach said, begins with their next away game against South African side Santos on Sunday, October 31.

Hearts are second on the standings in Zone Two with seven points, one less than group leaders Conton sport of Cameroon.