Soccer News of Saturday, 12 January 2008

Source: GFA

Stars Lost to Dubai Club

... Muntari sees red
Ghana, despite losing, enjoyed a fine run in a test game against Dubai-based club side, Al-Shabbab today.

The game which saw Claude le Roy playing out two different sets of teams in each half was rather competitive as it afforded the coach an opportunity to see his team play together for the first time.

And the physical play of the home side in the first half which ended goalless saw Black Stars midfielder, Sulley Muntari exiting the game after he was shown the red card.

Back from recess, Ghana introduced a new set and with just 8 minutes of play remaining, Al-Shabbab bundled in the winner.

Despite losing the test game, it was a good run out for the Black Stars with Claude Le Roy assessing his team before the start of the African Cup of Nations.

Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who played his game in a Ghana shirt showed great pace with some quick turns.

The game was the first trial for Ghana after Claude Le Roy named his final team for the African Cup of Nations.

A useful session for Ghana as the team continues with preparations for the competition.

The Black Stars would play Guinea in the opening match of the Cup of Nations at the Ohene Djan Stdaium on January 20.

First Half team: Richard Kingson, John Paintsil, Hans Adu Sarpei, Ahmed Barruso, John Mensah, Laryea Kingston, Michael Essien, Haminu Draman, Sulley Muntari, Asamoah Gyan and Junior Agogo.

The second session got underway with a totally new set as Le Roy sent on:

Second Half team: Sammy Adjei, Nana Kwasi Asare, Harrison Afful, Alhassan Illiasu, Eric Addo, Anthony Annan, Bernard Kumordzi, Andre Ayew, Baffuor Gyan, Quincy Owusu-Abeyie and Kwadwo Asamoah.