Felix Annan – His composure was excellent. He made a couple of brilliant interventions which kept Kotoko alive at crucial moments. One remarkable thing about his performance was his long kicks inside and with the exception of one that went completely wayward, Annan had most of his long kicks right. He deserves five marks for his effort.
Amos Frimpong – It will be unfair to rate the captain. He didn’t last more than 25 minutes having gone out after 24 minutes due to injury. He was given medical attention after only 20 minutes when he injured his right arm in a challenge. Eric Donkor took his place afterwards.
Eric Donkor – His presence was felt, playing for 66 minutes as a substitute. His work rate was good. Given his experience and maturity, he however didn’t operate at an optimum level. His incursions upfront in the second half were fine. For his effort, Eric Donkor also earns five marks.
Ahmed Adams – He had a tough challenge at the back with his counterparts as they constantly had to deal with Liberty’s raids. Adams made good interventions. He didn’t show signs of fatigue. His experience prevailed but the entire defensive setup can’t not escape blame for Liberty’s goal. All that considered, Adams also deserve five marks.
Abeiku Ainooson – His maturity was greatly at play. Not much was seen in terms of his pace particularly when he had to run or contain any fast movement of the opponent. He showed disturbing signs of fatigue. He as well can’t absolve himself of blame for Liberty’s goal. As a result, he also earns five marks.
Awudu Nafiu – As one of the three experienced defenders fielded, Nafiu didn’t disappoint but like his two counterparts, Liberty’s goal left a scar on his debut performance. He made timely interceptions and good clearances. He would’ve to show more grit next time and for his output, the former Ashgold player earns five marks.
Seth Opare – He was noticeably present. His movements with and without the ball; pace, and general contribution were brilliant. He showed quality in the middle, playing with admirable confidence. Time will bring the best out of Seth Opare who deserves six marks for his effort.
Prince Acquah – He played for 67 minutes. His presence was felt quite well as he contributed fairly well. Acquah would’ve to show more strength. He must also work on his confidence. His inherent quality or potential isn’t in doubt. For his debut performance, he deserves five marks.
Edwin Tuffour – He replaced Prince Acquah. He played for 23 minutes. When he came on, Kotoko either needed to score a third cushion goal or maintain their lead. His role was so evident. His presence in the middle, with a rather defensive task was impressive. Being a substitute and with the duration he played, four marks is a fair deal.
Kwame Boahene – He had quite a remarkable debut. His interceptions, ball distribution and pace were all in order. His confidence was appropriate for the game. His presence was well felt. He contributed immensely to the attack and for that debut show, six marks is appropriate.
Emmanuel Gyamfi – He came across as one of the most excellent performers. His pace was remarkable. His ball distribution – nearly flawless. He earned Kotoko the penalty. Gyamfi characteristically took on his opponents with confidence and succeeded almost every time and with that, he parts away with seven marks.
Yakubu Mohammed – For scoring two goals, showing accuracy from the spot, and adding the match winner, Yakubu earns seven marks. His strength and pace was good although until he scored not much was seen of him. Yakubu would need to do more in subsequent matches.
Obed Owusu – His place was taken by Ollenu Ashitey after 28 minutes so just like Amos Frimpong, Obed Owusu can’t be rated. His substitution was a result of injury. Obed had earlier sought treatment but minutes afterwards, he showed signs of pain.
Ollenu Ashitey – He came on for injured Obed Owusu. He played for 62 minutes. His pace was admirable the same as his skill and ball distribution. He showed good confidence. He added so much to Kotoko’s play and goes away with six marks.
Source: asantekotosc.com
