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Soccer News of Monday, 21 July 2003

Source: GNA

Managements of Kotoko and Hearts asked to settle differences

Ejisu (Ash), July 20, GNA-A passionate appeal has been made to the managements of Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak to settle their differences over the Charles Taylor transfer issue amicably and avoid utterances that could create tension and panic among football fans in the country. The Ejisu Zongo-Krapa Kotoko Supporters Union which made the appeal, said despite the ruling from the Ghana Football Association (GFA), various interpretations continue to be given the ruling by the two clubs, thereby aggravating the already volatile and tensed situation.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued by the union and read by Mr. K.A. Abu Seidu, spokesman, at its meeting at Ejisu on Saturday. The union was not equally happy about the manner in which sports commentators presented their views and comments about the Charles Taylor issue on the radio, saying, "their presentation is most often focused on creating confusion on the issue, rather than helping to seek an amicable solution to the impasse". The union therefore urged the media to be more circumspect and cautious when discussing issues pertaining to the Charles Taylor transfer issue and always strive to use their medium to help bring about peaceful settlement of the fracas.

The union also suggested to the National Sports Council and the GFA to mount a sustained programme to reach out to the various supporters unions and groupings nationwide to educate them on "FIFA rules and regulations, and their implications". The members were of the view that the lack of adequate knowledge about such rules and regulations, has largely accounted for misunderstanding between supporters of clubs and match officials.