Frimpong Manso cries foul over officiating after Nations FC’s heavy defeat to Asante Kotoko

Nations FC head coach Frimpong Manso has expressed frustration over what he described as a clear penalty decision that was overlooked, insisting his side was denied a crucial opportunity that could have changed the course of the game against Asante Kotoko.

The Abrankese-based outfit succumbed to a 3-0 defeat to the Porcupine Warriors in the week 26 of the Ghana Premier League clash, held at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

Kotoko made a strong start and took the lead in the 23rd minute when Albert Amoah rose highest to head home the opener, giving the hosts a deserved advantage at the break.

Goals from captain Samba O’Neil and Nigerian import Morifing Donzo in the final ten minutes of the match cemented victory for the home team.

Speaking after the match, Manso lamented the inconsistency in officiating, pointing out that while penalties were awarded to their opponents, his team’s legitimate appeal was ignored, leaving a sense of injustice despite accepting the final result.

“In the final ten minutes, the referee was bold to award two penalties to Asante Kotoko, yet overlooked a clear one for us. We lost 3-0, but the closing stages got away from us as we pushed forward in search of a goal. Our desire to score left us exposed, with too many players committing to attack. We accept the defeat, but the circumstances are difficult to ignore.” He said.

The result lifts Kotoko into third place, now six points behind new league leaders Bibiani GoldStars, boosting their hopes of mounting a late title challenge with eight matches remaining.

For Nations FC, it was a disappointing afternoon as they dropped to 11th place. Kotoko will next travel to face Aduana FC, while Nations return home to take on Berekum Chelsea.