Hearts of Oak’s interim coach, Abdul Rahim Bashiru, expressed disappointment after the team conceded a late goal in a 1-1 draw against Nations FC on match-day 15 of the Ghana Premier League.
Despite Hamza Issah’s early goal, Richard Danso’s late equalizer secured a share of points for Nations FC.
Speaking on StarTimes after the game, Coach Bashiru pointed to goalkeeper Richmond Ayi’s error, failing to secure Danso’s effort, as a crucial moment that cost Hearts of Oak the win. The draw extended Hearts of Oak’s winless streak to four games.
“Another blunder from the goalkeeper, and also, we didn’t defend well, just like the last game against Kotoko. That’s the problem we’ve been facing, but we will go back and do the homework as well,” Bashiru commented.
He acknowledged the team’s improved second-half performance but stressed the need for better defensive aggression. Despite facing pressure, Bashiru urged his players to remain calm.
“In the first half know, but the team gave what I was expecting in the second half. There was so much pressure on my boys but I told them to stay calm. It’s like they were so much pressure on them and we didn’t defend aggressively as well.”
Hearts of Oak will face regional rivals Great Olympics in the ‘Ga-Mantse’ derby on Friday, December 22, 2023.