As the 2016/17 Premier League starts, the 29 registered players will have what’s expected to be a sparkling curtain raiser to a demanding 30 rounds of matches when they open their campaign against Liberty Professionals at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday.
The Porcupines have gone two straight seasons without a major trophy. The massive changes that have hit the club from managerial to technical and to the playing body signals only one thing – that the hierarchy – from the Owner and Life Patron, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to the ordinary fan expects a major title this season.
Amos Frimpong and his charges understand the task ahead. The captain told Asantekotokosc.com in an interview that, the team would make their title chase clear to the world. “No disrespect to Liberty Professionals but I think they’ve met us at a wrong time” he stated.
“We’re serious at winning this season’s league. The first match of the season is crucial especially as it’s at home. We want to win it. It won’t just be a good omen. It will also boost our confidence and that of our Management, coaches and supporters” said the skipper.
The squad has changed with ten new players joining the fray. Asked if he they’ve adjusted well to understand the task, Amos Frimpong replied in the affirmative, saying that, “Everyone is aware of what’s expected of him. This includes the new players. We’ve spoken to them and made aware of how thing work here. They’re getting along well.
Ollenu Ashitey and Seth Opare are among the new players. The duo, like the others, has showed good prospects in pre-season. “I am looking forward to Sunday’s match against Liberty Professionals” said Ollenu. “We’ve had a fairly good preseason and we’re going into the league now” he added.
“It is the first game of the season. The expectation is nothing but a win” said Seth Opare. “Liberty Professionals are a good side but we’re a better side. That is for sure” said the former Aduana Stars player. Atta Kusi joined Kotoko from Liberty two seasons ago and like Edwin Tuffour who came last season form the same side, they are sure of victory.
“We beat them 3-1 in Kumasi last season. I remember they scored first but we eventually won. Later, we beat them 2-0 at Dansoman in the second round. We’ve a good record. I don’t think that will change. This is football all right but we’re well prepared for them”.
Atta Kusi also made a strong point. “Expectations are high. We must pick the first three points and replicate that in the coming matches” he noted. “It’s going to be a challenge, an exciting to start the league. We owe our Management, the coach, our fans and ourselves the three points. We promise to deliver on Sunday”.