Faisal, Kotoko, Hearts & Lions vie for Top-4

Accra, Nov. 22, GNA - The 2004 GT Premier League officially came to a close on Sunday with four clubs grabbing the first two top positions from each zone to qualify for the prestigious GHALCA Top Four tourney as well as CAF organised competitions. King Faisal, the defending champions gained their qualification after defeating in-form Real Tamale United (RTU) 2 - 0 at the Kumasi Sports Stadium. The defending champions had to wait for the league to go for a home stretch before securing the much-needed win to earn the second spot in Zone A. The two most glamorous clubs in the country, Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko secured their tickets after penultimate matches in their respective zones to win the top spots from their zones. Hearts are making the fourth appearance in the competition since its inception whilst Kotoko are appearing for the third time. The new entrants in this years' competition is Kpando based, Heart of Lions who placed second in Zone B to qualify to participate in the competition. Lions by their qualification have replaced Liberty Professionals who for the past two years have participated in the competition. The competition which is gradually becoming the most lucrative event on the local scene is reported to be attracting mouth watering offers from various corporate bodies for the 2005 edition. Information gathered by the GNA Sports reveals that participants will see massive improvement in their appearance fees as well as other incentive packages. In another development, Hearts and Kotoko will represent Ghana in the CAF Champions league competition next year whilst Faisal returns to the Confederations Cup competition alongside Lions.