Ashgold to finish league among top four clubs - predicts Coach

Obuasi, Aug 2, GNA - Hans van der Pluym, Ashantigold's head coach has said that despite the set backs suffered by the team, they will finish among the top four Clubs of the GT Premier League.

"Even though my attackers have failed to live up to expectation, the team still has what it takes to ensure our qualification and participation in at least the Confederation Cup", he added. Speaking in an interview with the GNA Sports at Obuasi at the weekend, coach van der Pluym, however, did not rule out the possibility of Ashgold winning the league, saying, "If the opportunity presents itself, we shall not hesitate to grab it".

The coach was a special guest at the Confederation of Africa Rugby (CAR) Under-18 Northern Zone II tournament, which ended at the Obuasi Ofori Stadium.

Coach van der Pluym bemoaned the inability of the Club's inspirational Cameroonian import, Valentine Atem, who is now recuperating from an injury to participate in the League and said this development had deprived his attack of the much-needed bite. He commended the Club's management and supporters for being resolute in their support for the team and mentioned Emmanuel Osei Kuffour who joined the team from Accra Hearts of Oak this season for bringing his experience to bear on the team's performance.

"When you have such experienced players in your fold, you are capable of turning the tables in your favour when the going gets tough". On officiating, the coach entreated referees to step up their performance so as to reduce the numerous controversies and tendencies that could spark off hooliganism.

Touching on Ghana's qualification for the 2006 World Cup, coach van der Pluym called on the Black Stars to eschew complacency now that they were on top of their group and should be dedicated to the realisation of the aim of qualifying. 02 August 05