{
  "id": 6157536,
  "title": "Heavy pitch, intense heat made Kotoko draw physically demanding – Eric Tinkler",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/heavy-pitch-intense-heat-made-kotoko-draw-physically-demanding-eric",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-07T18:06:34.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/heavy-pitch-intense-heat-made-kotoko-draw-physically-demanding-eric-tinkler/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Asante Kotoko's head coach Eric Tinkler attributed the physical demands of their 2-2 draw with newly promoted Debibi United to a heavy pitch and intense heat during the Ghana Premier League opener. The Porcupine Warriors took an early lead, but Debibi United equalized strongly in the second half. Richard Owusu scored two goals, including the equalizer in the 73rd minute. Kotoko fought back to secure a point through Herbert Gyau's equalizer in the 79th minute. Tinkler noted that both teams' legs were visibly fatigued due to the challenging conditions. He had experience playing on similar surfaces, explaining that such pitches quickly affect players physically, targeting their calves, thighs, and hamstrings. The coach also criticized the lack of a water break during the match, stating that players should be given one in such hot weather conditions. Despite the tough circumstances, Tinkler emphasized that the pitch did not hinder Kotoko from playing their preferred style of football. The team will aim for their first win of the season when they host Heart of Lions in their next league fixture.",
  "summary": "Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler believes the heavy pitch and intense heat contributed to the physical demands of his side’s 2-2 draw with newly promoted Debibi United in their Ghana Premier League opener.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}