Soccer News of Sunday, 18 March 2012

Source: --

Kotoko holding FA Cup belief

Asante Kotoko coach Maxwell Konadu is attempting to hand his team a double this season as they turn their attentions to the FA Cup.

The Porcupine Warriors with nine points clear in the premier league are coasting towards their 22nd title but on Sunday they will have an opportunity to edge closer to another Cup when they host Hasaacas in Kumasi in the Round of 32.

Konadu's side last season missed out of all trophies as they came inches close to lifting the FA Cup but were undone by Division One side, FC Nania in the final.

Ahead of the meeting with Hasaacas at the Baba Yara Stadium, Konadu is aware of the possibility of an upset but remains positive on his team’s prospects.

“We have three of our regular players serving suspensions because of accumulated cards but I believe we have enough replacements for this game,” Konadu said.

“I believe we have an upper hand because we are playing at home but we are not complacent because we recognize Hasaacas as a formidable side.”

Berekum Chelsea will be at home to Unity Stars in a derby at the Golden City Park on Sunday while a resurgent AshantiGold welcome King Faisal to the Len Clay Stadium.

Hearts of Oak could face Dunkwa United in the Round of 32 if they manage to beat Kintampo Sharp Arrows with their second round fixture pending.

Before Sunday's match action, Saturday will throw up an exciting pairing in the Cup competition as Heart of Lions will be home to Tarkwa United at Kpando.

A date for three fixtures in the Round of 32 - Yegoala vs Edubiase/B.A. Utd, Sharp Arrows/Hearts of Oak vs Dunkwa Utd and Danbort vs B.A. Stars/Kotoku Royals - has been postponed as the organizers plan to fix a date following the resolution of the legal issues.

Round of 32 fixtures

Heart of Lions vs Tarkwa United - 17 March

Berekum Chelsea vs Unity Stars - 18 March

Asante Kotoko vs Hasaacas - 18 March

AshantiGold vs King Faisal - 18 March

Inter Allies vs Berekum Arsenal - 18 March

Eleven Wise vs Kyenkyenkye - 18 March