Kotoko players lashed for lack of commitment

Kumasi, April 24, GNA - Bashiru Hayford, head coach of Kumasi Asante Kotoko Football Club on Monday attributed the team's recent dismal performance to lack of commitment on the part of the players.

He said that but for the lack of commitment and technical indiscipline on the part of the players, Kotoko would have salvaged at least two points in their Premier league matches against Sekondi Hasaacas and Berekum Arsenal in which the team lost 1-2 and 0-2 respectively.

Coach Hayford told the Press in Kumasi that: "I am highly disappointed with the lukewarm attitude lately put up by some of my players on the field of play in some crucial matches".

He said that it was quite unfortunate that some players find it difficult to translate what they have been taught at training unto actual matches adding that it was high time they the (players) stepped up their efforts to ensure the team's growth.

The coach stated that in spite of the recent mishaps, the technical team was working hard to ensure that the team finished among the first two clubs at the end of the Premier League.

This, he said, would enable the team to participate in next year's Africa Champion's League and as well enhance Kotoko's image. Coach Hayford also expressed his unhappiness that most supporters had resorted to attacking his personality since Kotoko lost its last two matches, saying, this development had the tendency to derail the team's focus if not nipped in the mud.

He therefore appealed to the supporters to resolve to rally solidly behind the team even in times of difficulties since football was full of uncertainties.

Disappointment was written on the faces of many Kotoko supporters at the weekend when the team was defeated 0-2 by Berekum Arsenal at the Berekum Golden City Park last Sunday. The defeat has thrown the aspirations of Kotoko's entry into the African Champions League into jeopardy since the team now has to win its last match against Great Olympics at all cost to contend for a place in the continental championship.