Hearts Kotoko Dominance Not the Course

...of Our Soccer Woes - Ntow-Fiako Mr. Kwame Ntow-Fiako, Accra Representative of Brong Ahafo United has said the present dominance of Hearts and Kotoko in the premier league is in no way destroying the beauty of the game in the country.

Speaking in an Interview with GNA Sports, Mr. Ntow-Fiako, said the two clubs have invested so much in the game over the years and they are reaping the dividends of their investments, hence their dominance.

He said Hearts and Kotoko have a large following, which gives them a stronger financial base to attract quality players in the country.

The B.A representative who doubles as a member of the Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said "even in away matches these two clubs have their supporters dominating in the stands showing the total commitment these fans have towards these two clubs."

Mr. Ntow-Fiako said unlike other smaller clubs who rely on philanthropists and the meagre gate proceeds, the two most glamorous clubs make a lot of gains from player transfers, which have become very lucrative.

The B.A representatives said these two clubs recruit the best players from other clubs at the end of every season. He said it has been the dream of most players to play for them due to the mouth-watering bonuses and salaries they get.

Mr. Ntow-Fiako said "if the other clubs can get sponsorship packages from companies in their respective regions as well as mobilise enough support for their matches they can also match the two clubs and make the game more competitive as people would like it."

On the performance of his club, Mr. Ntow-Fiako was optimistic that they would improve on their game in the second round of the league since they are aiming at being among the first four after the league.

"Being among the first four and playing in the GHALCA Top Four competition is our main objective and by playing in that competition we would make some money for the club," he said.

He said they played in the first round without a coach, "but now we have employed the services of Coach Emmanuel Quashie formerly of Berekum Arsenals and our top striker Daniel Bonfa is back and this would therefore improve our performance in the second round."

Mr. Ntow-Fiako added that they have established a new board to help the current chairman and expressed the confidence that with their contributions the club

would put up a good show.

Commenting on officiating in the country, Mr. Ntow-Fiako described it as very bad but added that club chairmen and officials are part of the problem.

He said if the club chairmen would stick to their vows and not influence the referees then there would fair officiating.