It will not be easy against FC Samartex but we are determined to win – Kotoko coach Eric Tinkler

Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler has urged his players to concentrate on what they can control ahead of Sunday's Ghana Premier League trip to FC Samartex.

The Porcupine Warriors travel to the Nsenkyire Sports Arena for a Matchday Three encounter, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 GMT.

Tinkler has overseen an unbeaten start since taking charge in the off-season, with Kotoko opening the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Kpando Heart of Lions before drawing 2-2 with league newcomers Debibi United.

Samartex have also begun the season strongly under new coach Nana Kweku Agyemang, winning their opening two matches to move into second place.

The South African acknowledged the challenge of a long journey but said his side must keep their attention on the aspects of the game they can influence.

“I said to the players we need to think about focusing on the controllables,” Tinkler said.

“We can’t control the fact that the trip will be a very long trip; that is just a fact, and we have to accept it, but we’ve got to try to make the best of it.”

He also warned that Kotoko face a difficult afternoon against an in-form opponent.

“Playing against Samartex is not going to be an easy game, but our actions will determine the results,” he added.

Kotoko head into the weekend fourth in the table and will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run against one of the league's early pace-setters.