Accra, Sept. 1, GNA - The National Sports Council has on behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports expressed its appreciation to all who have in diverse ways contributed to ensure the incident-free clash between rivals Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak in the Top Four soccer tournament at the Baba Yara Sports stadium in Kumasi last Sunday.

It said "It is the hope that such show of tolerance and sportsmanship, commitment and dedication will be exhibited at all times during football matches so as to protect lives and property". Mr Hamah Hamid Issakah, head of Public Relations of the National Sports Council in a press release copied o GNA Sports on behalf of the Ministry paid particular mention of the security arrangements that was put in place for the match.

The statement said the Council's appreciation goes to the security apparatus made up of the Police, Military, National Security, BNI and NADMO, which ensured that the gates and immediate vicinity of the stadium were free from both human and vehicular traffic and described the situation as being one of the best in recent times at the stadium. It added that the Fire Service, medical team and club officials also showed a lot of professionalism in the discharge of their duties while the fans also comported themselves very well. The statement said the Council also wishes to say 'kudos' to the Regional Sports Development Officer, Francis Kpesenu and his staff for working hard to ensure that all requirements were put in place before, during and after the match.

It further expressed its appreciation to Metro TV for telecasting the match live, which it noted contributed to reduce the pressure at the gates as it made the work of the organisers smooth and without any hindrance. 01 Sept. 09