Rospak SC welcomed Nzema Kotoko to Akoon on 6th October 2024 for a league home match that kicked off at 3:00pm. The home side emerged victorious with a convincing 3-1 win, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience throughout the contest.
Rospak SC lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Evans Blay took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Osei Yaw on the right, Prince and Ernest Arhin as central defenders, and Clement Essien on the left. Osman Assan operated as the lone central midfielder, tasked with linking play between defence and attack. The attacking midfield quartet featured Joseph Ntow on the right, Anthony Marshall in the central role, Derrick Asare on the left, and Frederick Twumasi supporting the lone striker, Kobinah Boakye.
The substitutes for Rospak SC included Richard Appiah, John Amoah, Francis Havor, Godwin Eshun, and Samuel Bayitse, providing depth and tactical options for the manager as the match progressed.
The match began with an early shock for Rospak SC as Nzema Kotoko took the lead just four minutes in. A well-placed shot from close range found the back of the net, leaving Evans Blay with little chance to respond. The home side, however, did not let this setback deter them, maintaining their composure as they sought to equalise.
As the first half unfolded, Rospak SC began to assert their dominance, with their midfielders working tirelessly to regain possession and create opportunities. Their efforts bore fruit in the 39th minute when Ernest Arhin levelled the score with a powerful header, expertly assisted by Joseph Ntow's flick. The goal ignited the home crowd, who rallied behind their team as they headed into half-time on level terms.
The second half saw Rospak SC make a tactical substitution, bringing on Richard Appiah for Derrick Asare immediately after the break. The change aimed to inject fresh energy into the midfield as they looked to take control of the game. However, the match took a more physical turn, with a yellow card issued for persistent infringements in the 61st minute, signalling the referee's intent to maintain discipline.
In the 62nd minute, Rospak SC took the lead for the first time in the match. Frederick Twumasi found the net with a simple tap-in, courtesy of a short pass from Osman Assan. The home side's confidence surged, and they began to dominate possession, pushing for a third goal.
The pressure paid off in the 70th minute when Prince scored with a header from a corner delivered by Osei Yaw, extending Rospak SC's lead to 3-1. The home side's defence remained resolute, absorbing pressure from Nzema Kotoko as they sought to claw back into the game.
Further substitutions were made in the 74th minute, with Francis Havor replacing Frederick Twumasi and Godwin Eshun coming on for Osei Yaw, who had sustained an injury. The tactical adjustments aimed to maintain the team's momentum while ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch.
As the match drew to a close, Rospak SC faced a few challenges, including a yellow card for Clement Essien in the 90th minute for a bad tackle. Despite this, they held firm to secure a well-deserved victory, with Anthony Marshall earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his influential performance in midfield.
Rospak SC's triumph over Nzema Kotoko not only boosts their league standing but also highlights their potential as serious contenders this season. The team will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, while Nzema Kotoko will need to regroup and reassess their strategies moving forward.
