Former Cape Town City FC and Sekhukhune United head coach Eric Tinkler has called on Ghana Premier League officials to implement mandatory cooling breaks amid sweltering weather conditions.
Tinkler played to a 2-2 draw against Debibi United in his first league match as coach of Asante Kotoko SC this past Sunday at the Golden City Park in Berekum.
The result leaves the 24-time Ghana Premier League winners in sixth position with one point. The former Orlando Pirates coach described the result against the newly promoted side as fair.
However, he was critical of the fact that both clubs were not allowed to have a water break despite the hot weather conditions.
WHY ERIC TINKLER IS CALLING FOR COOLING BREAKS IN GHANA PREMIER LEAGUE
“Then the intense heat, the dehydration starts coming in. We didn’t have a water break, but in this weather, we should at least be having a water break for players,” said Tinkler.
“So that’s the only criticism that I would give. But the pitch didn’t stop us from playing any football.”
FORMER ORLANDO PIRATES COACH REFUSES TO MAKE EXCUSES ON PITCH CONDITIONS
Despite admitting that the pitch conditions were not favourable, the former Bafana Bafana player rubbed out suggestions that it influenced results.
Last month Tinkler admitted that adapting to local playing surfaces will be an ongoing challenge, though he remains firm that his squad must embrace the reality on the ground.
“Remember, the pitch doesn’t just influence one team; it influences both. I could see their legs were dead,” he added.
“Not only our legs but their [Debibi United players’] legs. The pitch is heavy, thick, and I have played on pitches like that, and it’s hard because it starts affecting your calves, thighs and hamstrings.
Following the draw against Debibi United, Asante Kotoko will face Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday, 13 September.
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