Oly, Hearts to rumble again

After wobbling to hold league leaders Ashantigold in their first second round home match last Wednesday, Accra Hearts of Oak face yet another difficult opposition in age-old rivals, Accra Great Olympics, in an 18th week First Capital Premier League top liner at the Accra Stadium tomorrow.

Hearts did not disappoint against Ashantigold in terms of ball possession but lacked the firepower to overcome their opponents thus, relying on a controversial penalty to keep their heads above water. If their performance against Ashantigold is anything to go by, then Hearts could cause a stir tomorrow with a little bite upfront. 

But coming face to face with Olympics, who also ran away with a barren draw against New Edubiase at the Obuasi Len Clay Stadium last Sunday, Hearts will be in for some real fireworks.

Considering the display of both teams in their first round meeting a few weeks ago, which pulled arguably the best crowd in a Premier League match in recent times, both teams will come into this battle with the bench tipped by many pundits to reign supreme in determining who carries the day.

On a day when veteran goalkeeper Richard Kingson, Dan Quaye and captain Godwin Attram will be expected to dig from their archives of experience and blend with the younger ones, Hearts’ defence, revolving around Isaac Oduro, Robin Gnange and Sabahn Laryea could have a mouthful from the Olympics attackers.

Kumasi Asante Kotoko will also play host to struggling New Edubiase at the Baba Yara Stadium after losing 1-3 to Kpando Heart of Lions.

Kotoko pitched camp at Tema during the break, raising the expectations of their teeming fans of an improved performance during the second round, but though their fans were disappointed, many believe their loss to Lions last Sunday would serve as a blessing in disguise to motivate the Porcupine Warriors on to victory, especially at their own backyard.

In the other fixtures, Ashantigold, after their impressive performance against Hearts in their outstanding league match, welcome Wa All Stars to their stable at the Obuasi Len Clay Stadium.

WAFA host Inter Allies in another interesting game at their Sogakope base, while Liberty Professionals face Heart of Lions at Dansoman.

• Just like the Hearts and Olympics clash, the rest of the duels are local derbies which will see Sekondi Hasaacas visiting Medeama SC at the Tarkwa T and A Park, B.A. United travel to Berekum to face Chelsea, while Bechem United storm Dormaa-Ahenkro to play Aduana Stars.