Team Manager of Accra Hearts of Oak, Saban Quaye says the quest to end the club’s 8-year trophyless run should be motivation for the players when they come up against rivals Kumasi Asante Kotoko on Sunday.
The two most decorated clubs in Ghana’s football history will clash in the final of the 2017 MTN FA Cup and Saban Quaye admits management of the Hearts of Oak has not made any special incentive for the players.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra ahead of the game, Saban Quaye remarked that winning the trophy and representing Ghana on the continental stage should serve as enough motivation for the players and that the players will go into the game with same mentality and approach as the 2004 CAF Confederations Cup winning team.
“Winning the cup and the medals are enough incentives to the players. We have not planned for any financial reward for the players. We are approaching this game with the same motivation and mentality as we did in the 2004 finals in Kumasi so after the game whatever comes out, we just pick it,” he said.
The two sworn-rivals had an underwhelming season in the Ghana Premier League.
Hearts finished 3rd while Asante Kotoko finished in 5th position, the first time in a while that they are finishing the season outside the Top Four places.
The Porcupine Warriors sealed qualification to the FA Cup final after Saddick Adam’s extra-time goal helped Asante Kotoko beat Medeama 1-0 in the semi-final played in Obuasi earlier this month.
Twenty-four hours before Kotoko booked a place in this year’s FA Cup final, Hearts awaited in the final after beating WA All Stars 2-1 at the Len Clay stadium in Obuasi.
The clash between the two is expected to live up to expectations in Tamale.
It will be the first time the two teams will face each other.
