Hearts of Oak is a very strong side – Medeama coach Ibrahim Tanko

Ibrahim Tanko has praised Hearts of Oak as a tough opponent while backing Medeama to rise to the challenge when both sides meet this weekend in Tarkwa.The Medeama coach knows what to expect from the Phobians, especially after their recent record against his team, but he believes home support and his squads form can make the difference on the day.Medeama go into the game on the back of a steady run, with two wins and three draws from their last five matches, a sequence that has kept them in a strong position in the league.Reflecting on the fixture and Hearts quality, Tanko told the clubs media team:Hearts is a very strong side. Im sure the boys are ready to take the fight. We are playing home. We want to maintain our position at the top. Its not going to be easy but we are ready. The boys are ready to deliver," he told Medeama TVThe coach also remembers last seasons defeat to Hearts in Tarkwa and knows that result adds extra edge to the contest.Medeama will host Hearts of Oak on January 4 at the TnA Stadium, with kick off scheduled for 5:30 pm, in what promises to be a tense and competitive evening of football.