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| File photo: Hearts clash with Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium, today. |
The contest for the premier league title is far from over, but there are signals that suggest Sunday's epic clash between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko could go a long way to decide whether or not the league trophy remains in Accra or returns to Kumasi for the first time in a decade.
The importance of the match is further emphasised by the close race between the two clubs, such that a victory by either side could make the contest keener and probably more difficult.
Charles Taylor's controversial switch from Hearts to Kotoko has only added another flavour to the already interesting fixture, and the gifted player is expected to figure prominently in the game.
Taylor was part of the Hearts squad that chalked some memorable victories over Kotoko, and with a reversal of roles the 2002 goal king will attempt to inspire the Porcupine Warriors to victory.
Certainly victory for Kotoko will consolidate their lead over Hearts to four points, but in league matches in Accra, Kotoko have often run out of luck. In fact, their last league victory over Hearts in Accra dates back to September 1993 when Frempong Manso secured them a 1-0 win. After managing to split the points in Kumasi a few days ago, Hearts fancy their chances on home soil. But the Phobians have often had disappointments in Accra where they have drawn in four encounters.
Coach Herbert Addo has managed to revive the team with the infusion of fresh blood like Nasiru Gani, Adnan Ali, Ablade Morgan and Lawrence Adjei who have kept the club's title hunt on track.
Check out the starting line up between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko
Hearts XI (4.3.3)
Goal Keeper
1.James Nanor
Defenders
2. Dan Oppong
3. Kwabena Boafo
4. Richard Nii Noi
5. Dan Quaye
Midfielders
6. Amankwa Mireku
7. Charles Allotey
8. Emmanuel Osei Kuffuor
Forwards
9. Wisdom Abbey
10. Don Bortey
11. Lawrence Adjah Tetteh
Head Coach: Herbert Addo (late)
Kotoko XI (4.4.2)
Goalkeeper
1. George Owu
Defenders
2. Issah Ahmed
3. Frank Amankwah
4. Aziz Ansah
5. Joseph Hendricks
Midfielders
6. Godfred Yeboah
7. Yussif Chibsah
8. William Tiero
9. Daniel Yeboah
Forwards
10. Nana Arhin Duah
11. Charles Taylor
Head Coach: Hans Kodric
Croatian