Despite defeating Bekwai Youth Academy on penalty shootout in the MTN FA Cup in the round of 62 in Bekwai, Frimpong Manso has claimed it was difficult match.

The game ended 1-1 in regulation time. Kwame Boateng powered the Porcupines into the lead a minute after the interval but the Division One side cancelled the deficit very late into the game when Jawu Thomas headed home a corner kick in the 94th minute and the game had to be decided on penalty shootout.

The Porcupines were at their shooting best as they scored all three kicks while Bekwai Youth Academy missed three of their four kicks.

Goalkeeper Isaac Amoako, who was playing his first competitive game after his 2015 knee surgery, actually saved the fourth kick, sending Kotoko to the Round of 32 stage.

However, Frimpong Manso who was in place of Godwin Ablordey on the bench believes despite the victory over the Division One side it was difficult match and has showered praises on his players for their performance.

“In the FA Cup matches, there are always a lot of surprises.” He told Asempa FM. “The lower division teams are always motivated to do something great but we planned that we will use this matches as a preparatory match in our next three matches.

“We introduced some new players because we want to see them growing. We won on penalties because it was difficult game but I am impressed with the attitude of my players on the pitch.

“In the second half of the game we were not on the ball that much and it doesn’t mean they outplayed us but I believe everyone has their own opinion.” He added.