With the first round of the 2016/17 Premier League ended, attention shifts to the MTN FA Cup round of 32 matches this weekend and without doubt, the Central Regional town of Swedru will be the centre of attraction when Kotoko engage Proud United on Sunday.
Kotoko started the FA Cup campaign from the round of 64 stage, where they beat Division One side, Bekwai Youth Academy 3-1 on penalties after a gruelling 90 minutes action that ended 1-1. Proud United started from the preliminary stage. They recorded a 2-0 win against Nyakrom Youth and proceeded to beat Fetteh Youngsters 1-0. They’ve scored three goals in two games without conceding.
Hosting Kotoko at the Swedru Park on Sunday, Proud United will hope to take advantage of their home support but their chances of accomplishing an upset are slim because the Porcupines are cut for the task ahead. Since the FA Cup was re-introduced in 2011, Kotoko have always gone progressed past the round of the 32. The Porcupines have actually been to four finals since then winning one and losing three.
Their worse attempt was 2012 when they were eliminated at the 1/16th stage by Amidaus Professionals at the Tema Park. Last season, Kotoko suffered a jolt at the quarter-final stage, losing to eventual winners Bechem Unite 3-2 on penalties a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Despite their recent predicament in the league, the players are determined to overcome any obstacle this weekend. “The FA Cup is important to us. We must do everything possible to progress” said goalie, Ernest Sowah who had his debut league game this season last Sunday.
The last time Kotoko visited Swedru was 2011/12 during the off-season. They pitched strength against Swedru All Blacks in a thrilling trial match which ended 2-0 in Kotoko’s favour. Sunday offers Kotoko fans in Swedru and its environs the chance to watch the fabulous team but this time in a highly competitive knockout match.
In terms of pedigree, Proud United comes nowhere near Kotoko but in a competition noted for upsets and surprises, Ernest Sowah believes that, their opponent can’t be underestimated. “We cannot underrate any team at this stage. It’s clear from our recent matches that, we are the target of every team. We’ve to rise and win to make our fans happy” he said while urging supporters to remain positive.