By: Bernard Nyankomago-Yeboah

Date: 29-07-11

Technical Advisor, Malik Jabir, says the technical staff of Kumasi Asante Kotoko would go back to the drawing board and put the necessary measures in place to ensure that Kotoko becomes strong for the incoming 2011/12 football season.

In a post match interview with Kotoko Express after watching his side lost 0-1 to Nania FC in this year’s MTN FA Cup final at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium last Sunday, Malik hinted that the technical bench has identified all the shortcomings in the team. He assured they would collaborate effectively with management and recruit quality players to strengthen those areas before next season kicks off.

“I want to assure the supporters that the technical staff and management will make judicious use of the off season and prepare a strong team for next season” he noted.

The expectation was high among Kotoko supporters who stormed the Ohene Djan Stadium last Sunday that the Porcupine Warriors would clinch this year’s MTN FA Cup in order to get the opportunity to play in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

However, the well determined and organized Nania FC defied all odd in the presence of the massive Kotoko supporters and beat the fabulous boys 1-0 to win the trophy at stake for the first time. The goal came in the 113 minutes through Evan Omari after both teams had played goalless in regulation time.

It was a goal mouth melee and the skillful winger who was left unmarked by the Kotoko defenders back heeled the ball at the blind side of Goalkeeper Abdoulaye Soulama to carry the day for his side.

Commenting on the game itself, Malik said “I think our players were tired. You know they have not had enough rest since the Glo Premier came to an end and that really affected us today.

“But I will not take anything away from the Abedi Pele’s side. They really worked hard today and they deserve the trophy” he stated.

Asked why Yaw Frimpong who has been very instrumental in the Kotoko right full back since the competition started was not part of the team, Malik answered that he fell sick some few days to the crucial game and there was nothing they could do than to drop him.

He commended the supporters for their massive attendance on the evening and asked them to calm their nerves over the disappointment assuring that they will see a better team next season.