Thomas Abbey has opened up exactly what led to their 3–1 defeat to Asante Kotoko in the final of the 2017 MTN FA Cup.
Hearts of Oak conceded three first half goals before recess and would only produce a consolation to end the game 3-1. Saddick Adams scored all three goals for Asante Kotoko to pin the Phobians.
According to the Phobians’ skipper[Thomas Abbey], his team mates were rather chasing unpaid salaries and bonuses before their trip to Tamale to face their rivals.
“I can say that before the match, everything favored Hearts. We were supposed to win but there were very serious problems in the team. We had not been paid for three months and winning bonuses from seven matches were also not paid,” he told Angel FM.
“I can tell you that, before the final, we were not even training. We were protesting so we will go to the training grounds and only jog for twenty minutes and go back home.”
“Most of the players had their contracts expired so we knew the match was the last opportunity to demand our pay. Not surprising that we lost in the first half. I can say it was what led to the defeat.”
