Former Ghana Premier League referee Alex Quartey has challenged the common perception that officiating matches between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, the two biggest clubs in the country, is difficult.
Contrary to this belief, Quartey asserts that handling games involving these teams is actually the easiest.
In an interview with Kumasi-based Fox FM, the five-time SWAG Referee of the Year explained, “For me the easiest matches to handle are Hearts of Oak and Kotoko matches. You just have to apply the rules of the game. Mistakes are there but as a referee I always made sure I knew what I was doing on the pitch.” , Alex Quartey said in an interview with Kumasi-based Fox FM.
He further emphasized that with a steadfast approach and the determination not to be influenced by external pressures, referees can effectively handle the matches between Hearts of Oak and Kotoko. Quartey also praised the maturity of the players, stating that they, too, want to showcase their skills to the public.
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“Some people think Hearts and Kotoko matches are difficult but their games are very easy to handle. You can handle it well if you don’t allow the big men to influence you and then you apply the laws of the game. The players too are mature and everyone wants the public to see them play well” , he added.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that despite Quartey’s perspective, matches between these two football giants have historically been tense and emotionally charged. An unfortunate example of this tension is the tragic Accra Sports Stadium disaster, which occurred on May 9, 2001, resulting in the loss of 126 lives.
In recent times, Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku has acknowledged that the association still faces challenges concerning refereeing and coaching in the league. Addressing these issues will be crucial in ensuring fair and successful football competitions in the country.
