In a gripping encounter at the Gomoa Fetteh Astro Turf on 27 October 2024, Rospak Sc faced off against Soccer Intellectuals in a cup match that ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw after 90 minutes, with the visitors ultimately triumphing 15-14 in the penalty shootout. The match showcased a blend of skill, determination, and a touch of controversy, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Rospak Sc adopted a 4-1-3-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. The backline consisted of two central defenders, Ernest Arhin and Emmanuel Boafo, flanked by right defender Peter Arhin and left defender Clement Essien. Osman Assan played a pivotal role as the central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. Ahead of him, the trio of Joseph Ntow, Frederick Twumasi, and Kofi Anthony operated as attacking midfielders, with Kobinah Boakye and Reuben Tetteh leading the line as forwards.
The substitutes for Rospak Sc included Richard Appiah, John Amoah, Godfred Eshun, Benjamin Ofori, and Samuel Bayitse, who would later play crucial roles in the match's unfolding drama.
The match began with Soccer Intellectuals taking the lead in the 24th minute, as they capitalised on a moment of brilliance from outside the box, with a right-footed strike that left Rospak's goalkeeper with no chance. This early setback forced Rospak to regroup and push forward in search of an equaliser.
In the 31st minute, Rospak was forced into an early substitution due to an injury to Joseph Ntow, who was replaced by Richard Appiah. The change disrupted the rhythm slightly, but Rospak continued to press for a response. Just eight minutes later, Frederick Twumasi levelled the score from the penalty spot after a foul in the box, converting with confidence to bring the home side back into contention.
However, the match took a turn for the worse for Rospak as they received two yellow cards in quick succession, the first for a bad tackle in the 38th minute and the second just three minutes later, leading to a red card for unsporting behaviour in the 42nd minute. This left Rospak with ten men as they headed into half-time, but they remained resolute.
The second half saw Rospak make tactical adjustments, bringing on John Amoah for Reuben Tetteh immediately after the break. The game continued to ebb and flow, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert. In the 72nd minute, Rospak made two more substitutions, introducing Godfred Eshun and Benjamin Ofori for Kobinah Boakye and Osman Assan, respectively, in a bid to regain control of the midfield.
As the match approached its final stages, Soccer Intellectuals capitalised on a defensive mistake from Rospak, scoring in the 83rd minute to take a 2-1 lead. The home side, however, refused to back down and fought back valiantly. In the 87th minute, Frederick Twumasi struck again, converting another penalty to level the score at 2-2, sending the match into a tense conclusion.
With the score tied, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Soccer Intellectuals emerged victorious, converting 15 penalties to Rospak's 14. The shootout was a nerve-wracking affair, reflecting the intensity of the match itself.
In the end, both teams displayed commendable spirit and skill, with Rospak Sc showing great resilience despite the challenges faced. The match will be remembered not only for its thrilling moments but also for the determination displayed by both sides in pursuit of cup glory.
