Basake Holy Stars head coach Johnson Smith has attributed his side’s 2-0 defeat to Dreams FC to complacency, admitting his players lost focus after a strong run of form.
Speaking after Sunday’s Ghana Premier League clash, Smith suggested Holy Stars paid the price for easing off following a five-game unbeaten streak prior to the encounter.
“Ghanaian footballers, when they are winning matches, they allow their head to become swollen and that’s what’s killing them,” Smith said.
The experienced tactician also highlighted tactical and disciplinary issues, noting a significant drop in intensity compared to previous matches. He explained that caution among some players, who were walking a disciplinary tightrope, affected the team’s overall performance.
“Our transition play was very slow if I compare it to our last five matches. Some of our players are also on two yellow cards and didn’t want to get so much involved to get another yellow card,” he added.
The loss marks Smith’s first defeat since taking charge of Holy Stars. Despite the setback, the coach is already looking ahead to the second round of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.
Smith revealed plans to strengthen key areas of his squad but admitted he may have to rely on his current crop if reinforcements are not secured.
“I want to strengthen the goalkeeping side, the central, and the striking department. If I don’t get [them], I will maintain and work with the players we have,” he said.
