This is why people choose European football – Bashir Hayford speaks after pitch invasion

Hearts of Lions coach Bashir Hayford has made headlines after his unconventional move during his team’s Premier League clash with Bechem United in Week 28.

The encounter at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park was marked by supporters’ hostility, prompting Hayford to take matters into his own hands by invading the pitch.

In a video circulating online, the veteran coach was seen carrying a chair onto the pitch, where he eventually sat during the match.

Speaking to Akoma 87.9 in Kumasi, Hayford explained that his actions were purely a self-defense mechanism aimed at highlighting the unacceptable behavior witnessed during the game.

Heart of Lions coach Bashir Hayford sat on the pitch with a chair, delaying play for about 20 mins during a Ghana Premier League game against Bechem United.#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/zoKHcU9ioA

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) April 29, 2024

“I have traveled the length of Ghana following football for thirty years, and never have I seen anything like this where supporters and team officials invade the pitch and threaten referees,” Hayford expressed with shock. “This is the main reason people will choose to follow European football,” he asserted.

• Bashir Hayford explains why he sat in the middle of pitch to interrupt play
• Heart of Lions coach Bashir Hayford sits in middle of pitch during match

Reflecting on the incident, Hayford confirmed rumours that he was sprayed with urine by an unidentified supporter. He emphasized the need to protect his players amidst the hostile environment, which led to the game being halted for nearly twenty minutes.

“My boys are human beings, and we had to do everything to protect them, and that was the reason you saw me with a chair on the pitch,” Hayford stated.

Despite the disruption, the seasoned coach eventually exited the field, enabling the game to recommence. Despite playing with only 10 men, Bechem United succeeded in avoiding defeat on their home turf with the game ending 1-1.

While Bechem United currently occupy the sixth position on the table with 40 points, Hearts of Lions find themselves languishing in the 17th spot, just above Real Tamale United.

By Emmanuel Owusu| Akoma Sports|Ghana