Asante Kotoko coach Charles Akonnor says his side’s defensive frailties was the bane of their elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.

The Ghanaian giants needed to overcome Zesco United in the final game of the group stage to seal after blowing up the chance to do so in their penultimate game against Al Hilal in Kumasi last Sunday.

However, two defensive blunders in the second stanza of the match cost them dearly after Stephen Nyarko had shot them into the lead on the stroke of half time.

During his presser, coach Akonnor pin-pointed that script could have been written differently had they defended better.

“The goals we conceded since we started this campaign has been a major problem and it has affected us. Honestly, we’ve lost bitterly but I must say I’m proud of the boys.”

“Today is the end of the journey and hopefully we’ll learn from this campaign and comeback stronger.”

Kotoko conceded eight goals in six games to finish 3rd on the Group C standings with seven points.

Sudanese side Al Hilal topped the Group and were joined by Nkana FC.