Ahenkanfmonline.com Ahenkan 93,3 FM
by:[Ben Mawuli Botoh]
Ahenkan Football Academy (AFA) wrapped up the first round of the Eastern RFA Division Two League (Zone 3) on a high note this weekend, securing a hard-fought 2-1 away victory over Vidako in Akwatia.
The victory marks a significant milestone for the Akyem Oda, Aboabo-based club, recording their first-ever back-to-back wins in the 2025/2026 campaign following their Match Day 10 triumph over Kotoku Rush.
Match Report: A Battle in Akwatia
The game began with the visitors asserting dominance early on. Ahenkan FA took total control of possession in the first half, eventually breaking the deadlock to go into the break with a narrow lead.
The second half proved to be a stern test of character for AFA. The home side, Vidako, returned from the recess with renewed energy, finding an equalizer to restore parity. However, the Ahenkan squad displayed resilience, responding almost immediately to retake the lead. They managed the game effectively in the dying minutes to clinch a crucial 2-1 win.
The 2-1 victory has proved vital for Ahenkan FA, who have now closed the gap to just eight points off the league leaders, Kotoku Royals. The battle at the top remains fiercely contested; while the Royals hold the summit, the race for the remaining top spots is tighter than ever, with only two points separating the second-placed team from the sixth, keeping the promotion race wide open heading into the second round.
Coach Nketiah: “Tactical Discipline is Paying Off”
Speaking to the press in a post-match interview, Ahenkan FA Head Coach Dominic Nketiah attributed the recent upturn in form to improved defensive organization and better decision-making upfront.
“We have been working so hard to fix our defensive issues,” Nketiah stated. “The attackers are gradually making some good, decisive decisions in the final third, which has helped us avoid defeat in our last three games.”
Looking ahead to the start of the second round, Nketiah promised fans an improved overall performance when they host Osenase Royals on Match Day 12.
Zone 3 First Round Review: The Rise and Fall
The conclusion of the first round offers a clear picture of the league’s landscape, characterized by shocking dips in form and impressive recoveries.
Ahenkan FA’s Turnaround: Ahenkan’s season began on a rocky note, suffering a 3-0 baptism of fire in their debut game against Osenase Royals. Early struggles with squad depth hampered their progress, but the second registration window proved to be the turning point. The injection of new talent and the registration of previously unavailable players has stabilized the squad, helping them record 2 wins and a draw in their last three games.
The Title Race & The Top 4
Kotoku Royals (1st): The former Premier League and Division One side has asserted their dominance, leading the pack with 25 points. despite a recent defeat to Kwaebibirim United, they hold a comfortable 6-point cushion at the summit.
Kwaebibirim United (2nd): Sitting second, they have had a mixed end to the round, suffering shocking back-to-back defeats to Abomosu All Stars and Crystal Boys.
Kotoku Rush (4th): Once the second-best team in the zone this season, a loss of control saw them slip to 4th, though they hold a game in hand (outstanding Match Day 9 fixture).
Asikam Power Rangers: After a slow start, they have clawed their way into the Top 5.
The Relegation Battle & Disappointments
Osenase Royals: In a twist of irony, the team that hammered Ahenkan FA 3-0 on opening day now sits at the very bottom of the table.
Power Breakers: Labelled the most disappointing team of the round, they have managed to fight their way just out of the relegation zone.
Kaistorms FC: One of the zone powerhouses has failed to impress, sitting 7th with 15 points.
The Akwatia Struggles: Both Akwatia-based clubs, Abomosu All Stars and Vidako, find themselves languishing in the bottom four.
Akyemansa Techiman Stars: The club failed to honor a single match, effectively gifting 3 points to every opponent in the zone.
Editorial: A Call for Improvements
While the first round has been a success largely due to the resilience of stakeholders and the teeming fans, there are areas for review heading into the second half. Officiating has been generally acceptable, though reality checks are needed to maintain standards.
Furthermore, the Regional Association is urged to make necessary adjustments to foster the continued success of Zone 3, while supporters are reminded to keep their utterances in check to ensure a safe match-day environment.
