Sports News of Saturday, 23 December 2017
Source: ghanasportsonline.com
2017-12-23
Frank Nuttall
Accra Hearts of Oak head coach Frank Nuttall insists he and his charges are looking forward to the return league of the Ghana at 60 anniversary Cup game with Kotoko on Sunday.
The Phobians were beaten by the Porcupines in the final of the MTN FA CUP two months ago but the fixture list has brought them together once again with Team Hearts looking to avenge the cup defeat.
Speaking ahead of the game, Nuttall revealed how his preseason training has gone so far and believes despite the game coming too soon at this stage, his side will be well prepared on Sunday.
“Our preseason training has been good,” he told accraheartsofoaksc.com “We have narrowed down the numbers at training and that is going to increase our focus. We have focused well and we have played a couple of friendly games and we are looking forward to the game [against Kotoko on Sunday].
“Certainly, it wasn’t in the original plans but it is something that has been put in at a later stage and that is what happened and we have to just manage that situation and prepare accordingly.
“I think that the game in Tamale is in the past and I do not think it has any relevance to this game. It is a derby game so I do not think previous results have any relevance.”
Hearts beat Kotoko 3-1 in the first encounter but going into this weekend’s game and with so many possibilities as to how to approach the game – whether to defend or attack or just sit back and settle for a draw – Coach Nuttall was a bit coy on how he intends to approach the game.
“We will see on Sunday [how we approach the game],” he said, with a grin on his face.
The Phobians have enjoyed brilliant support in Kumasi and coach Nuttall is looking forward to another “great support” from the teeming fans of the club at the Babayara on Sunday.
“The message to our fans is just to turn up in your numbers. You were great the last time we were in Kumasi and we need as much support as possible so come and be the 12th man [for us].
