Chelsea to test Kotoko's recovery

Accra, Nov. 25, GNA - The recovery process of Kumasi Asante Kotoko faces yet another test on Sunday when they come against Premier League leaders, Bechem Chelsea at the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi in the top-liner of the Week 13 clash of the 2010/2011 Glo Premier League. Kotoko appear to be on the road to revival with the arrival of the Serbian trainer, Bogdan Korak who managed a draw against B.A Stars last week after some string of losses, but face yet a difficult test against the high-flying Chelsea, who are three points clear at the top. The 'Porcupine Warriors' are yet to win a game at their favourite home grounds since beating Real Tamale United (RTU) in week seven on October 17, and their unfamiliar performance has amplified pressure from their vociferous fans on the technical team and playing body for an improvement. Once touted as the 'fast track stadium', the Baba Yara stadium venue has suddenly metamorphosed into a waterloo for Kotoko as far as this season is concerned with only two hard-fought victories to boast of in five matches at the 40,000-plus capacity stadium.

The Serbian trainer has axed eight players since assuming the reigns and the team can be said to be nearing good days if their performance against B.A Stars will serve as a measure. Chelsea are 'streets' ahead of Kotoko on current form and are highly favoured to deepen the woes of the Porcupine Warriors to extend their lead at the top.

The Berekum-based club needs the points badly to keep alive their ambitions of remaining at the summit of the standings after the first half, and will be banking on the likes of Obed Owusu, Emmanuel Clottey, Emmanuel Banahene, Abdul Basit and Jackson Owusu to avenge the 0-2 loss suffered against Kotoko last season at the same venue. Nothing short of a victory for the Porcupine Warriors will be detrimental to their fortunes as it will push them down the bottom ranks of the league standings.

Reigning champions, Aduana Stars will be away to Obuasi to face Ashantigold in a match that promises to be full of fireworks. Incidentally the two clubs will represent the nation in next year's continental club championships, and the outcome of the clash will boost either club's position on the ladder. At the Kpando Park, Heart of Lions will host Accra Hearts of Oak in the battle of the 'Hearts' and clash of equals judging by the performance of the duo in the 12-week old premiership.

Real Tamale United (RTU) face a tall mountain in their quest for their second win of the season when they face against Kessben, whose fortunes have dwindled in the last few games. The 'Pride of the North' have yet to win a game since October 6, and Kessben may worsen their plight with another familiar defeat at the Tamale sports stadium.

Cape Coast Ebusua Dwarfs are likely to return empty from their trip to Wa as guests of All Stars, whilst Arsenal lock horns with King Faisal at the Golden City Park, Berekum. Debutants Mighty Jets will face New Edubiase at the Ohene Djan Stadium, Accra.