Preview: Michael Quaye
New Edubiase United may have proven the nemesis of Kumasi Asante Kotoko over the past three years, but on the evidence of current form, quality and passion, Edubiase appear headed for the slaughter house as the two sides clash in the Premier League in Kumasi on Sunday.
Having served the last of a five-match home ban two weeks ago, the Porcupine Warriors return to their favourite base, the Baba Yara Stadium, where both the weak and mighty have fallen under Kotoko’s weight in some of the memorable fixtures at the venue.
Otherwise a tough opposition, Edubiase are among a few who have defied the profile of the Baba Yara fortress to humble Kotoko before the eyes of their own vociferous faithful.
But after two rounds of matches in the new season, the two sides lie poles apart, Kotoko on top of the standings with a 100 per cent record, while Edubiase remain at rock bottom without a point.
The apparent gulf in current form aside, Kotoko have been buoyed in confidence by last Sunday’s 1-0 win over Hearts of Oak in Accra.
Edubiase’s situation seems even more puzzling given the wide talent base at the club now. Already with the hardworking Stephen Manu and Alhassan Nuhu in their attacking arsenal, the Bekwai-based club have acquired the once feared ‘serial killer’ Bernard Don Bortey.
For a player with an exciting history against Kotoko, Bortey adds to the jigsaw Edubiase will present on Sunday when he comes up against the likes of Abeiku Ainooson, Jordan Opoku, Michael Akuffu, Seidu Bancey and Yahaya Mohammed.
Edubiase’s team manager, Edwin Amaah, believed lack of luck was behind their two opening defeats, and simply told Graphic Sports “we will play on Sunday, no shaking”.
Whether or not that could be the turning point in their fortunes in the season will depend on how much Kotoko will take them seriously.
Inter Allies, also struggling on the debut season at the top flight, will be the destination for Hearts of Oak Tema where David Duncan and his charges will seek quick redemption following their loss to Kotoko last Sunday.
In other matches, Hasaacas host Aduana Stars Sekondi, Bechem United welcome Ebusua Dwarfs to Bechem, Berekum Chelsea and Medeama SC clash at Berekum, Hearts of Lions stay at their Kpando base against Amidaus Professionals, Liberty entertain King Faisal in Accra, while AshantiGold and Wa All Stars play at the Len Clay Stadium.
