Bashir Hayford Content With Point as Volta Derby Ends All Square

Heart of Lions head coach Bashir Hayford has expressed satisfaction with his side’s outcome in the fiercely contested Volta derby against Hohoe United, which ended in a goalless draw in the Ghana Premier League.

The Week 17 encounter, played on Friday in Hohoe, lived up to its billing as a battle of pride between two regional rivals. Both teams approached the match with caution and intensity, determined not to concede ground in the first derby meeting of the season.

Hohoe United came closest to breaking the deadlock when they were awarded a penalty, but the chance went begging. Heart of Lions also enjoyed promising moments going forward, only to be let down by poor finishing at crucial times, leaving neither side able to find the breakthrough.

Reflecting on the game after the final whistle, Hayford acknowledged the competitive nature of the contest and felt a draw was a fair reflection of proceedings.

“I think it was a very tough game because both sides didn’t want to lose,” Hayford said.
“The home side played aggressively, and we matched them boot for boot. They had a penalty they couldn’t convert, we also had a clear chance, and we couldn’t score.”

The experienced coach also pointed to the long-standing relationship between the two communities, suggesting the shared result suited the occasion.

“I think both sides are happy because the friendship between Hohoe and Kpando… maybe God didn’t want one to be happy and one to be sad, so all of us are sharing the points, and then we go home,” he added.

The stalemate sees Heart of Lions remain sixth on the league table, while Hohoe United continue their battle near the foot of the standings in 15th position as the season progresses.