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Soccer News of Tuesday, 22 May 2007

Source: GNA

Kotoko demand fair officiating in Top Four League

Kumasi, May 22, GNA - Mr Kwame Boafo, a Management Member of Kumasi Asante Kotoko Football Club has called for fair officiating in the upcoming GHALCA Top Four League in the face of what he alleged was the consistent bias officiating against Kotoko over the years in such competitions.

"What we demand of our referees is that they should exhibit a high level of professionalism in the discharge of their duties when the tournament starts to ensure its success," he said.

Mr Boafo made the call when he assessed the chances of Kotoko in the Top Four League in an interview with newsmen in Kumasi on Monday. The Kotoko Management Member said much as the league served as an important exercise for Ghanaian clubs' preparation towards major competitions, there was the need to strive for excellence in all departments of its organisation.

Whilst predicting total victory for Kotoko in the Top Four, he appealed to supporters to rally solidly behind the team even in times of difficulty.

Mr Boafo lambasted some supporters and "serial callers" for fomenting trouble in the team by sowing seeds of discord among management members.

"As a result of this negative practice even a simple misunderstanding among management members on some issues is misinterpreted by these callers and supporters to be division in our ranks," he remarked.

He said it was about time supporters refrained from peddling unsubstantiated allegations about management members since such practices tarnished their hard won reputation.

On the management's meeting with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, held at the weekend, Mr Boafo indicated that the meeting had enriched their focus.

He commended the owner and spiritual leader of Kotoko for his advice and commitment towards the development of the club. The management member stated that the meeting, which was held behind closed doors, had taught them many lessons about strategizing for the future.

Mr Boafo urged supporters of the club to support development projects initiated by management in the overall interest of the club.