Bernard Don Bortey former Hearts of Oak star has said he was always motivated to play above himself anytime Hearts met Kotoko due to the euphoria surrounding such matches.
He described matches with Kotoko as an honour for every Hearts player which provided every player on both sides an opportunity to prove themselves.
During this period, the enterprising forward became a constant threat in matches against arch-rivals Kotoko and scored some memorable goals, including a breathtaking free-kick in the 2009 season.
Bortey told the Graphic Sports that he was always conditioned and in high spirits to beat Kotoko whenever they clashed.
“The euphoria surrounding Hearts and Kotoko matches was enough to prepare you for the task ahead. It motivated me enough to score Kotoko anytime we met.
“Every player in our time wanted to play in matches involving Kotoko because it gave one the platform to prove one’s worth to the supporters,” he noted.
Bortey played for nine years for the Phobians from 2001-2010 and won four Ghana Premier League titles, CAF Confederation Cup, as well as became the joint top scorer in the 2002 league season.
The gifted forward has turned his energies into developing talents after obtaining his GFA License C coaching certificate.
He was recently appointed coach of Division Two side, Techiman Gold Stars, where he is expected to use his experience to help develop young talents at the club.
Source: Graphic Sports
