Heart of Lions head coach Bashir Hayford remains optimistic about his team’s chances of lifting the Ghana Premier League title, despite a 2-1 defeat against Bibiani GoldStars in an outstanding Matchday 21 game at the DUN’s Park on Tuesday.
The setback left the Kpando-based side in third place with 40 points, five points adrift of the summit.
As things stand, Asante Kotoko sits atop the table with 45 points, while GoldStars occupies second spot, just a point behind the leaders.
However, Hayford believes the title race is far from over, emphasizing that there are still plenty of twists and turns to come.
“We have about ten matches left, and so 10 matches’ means 30 points,” Hayford said at a post-match conference. “It can make a difference. If somebody is leading with five points, and we have 30 points to contend with. We shouldn’t have to relax and say they are leading.”
Hayford’s comments suggest that Heart of Lions will continue to push for maximum points in their remaining games, starting with a high-stakes clash against Asante Kotoko at the Kpando Stadium this weekend.
“It is not over. [Even] When someone leads with 10 points, you can struggle and [catch up]. It is not over, we will struggle and see what we can do,” Hayford added, refusing to concede defeat in the title chase.
With the Ghana Premier League entering its final stretch, Hayford’s remarks serve as a rallying cry for his team.
With the stakes escalating, Heart of Lions must summon the mental toughness and determination to remain in contention for the prestigious title, amidst intense pressure from heavyweight rivals Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak.