Traditional powerhouse Hearts of Oak open their campaign in next season’s top flight with an away match to Berekum Arsenal at the Robert Mensah Park in Cape Coast after the Premier League Board released the fixtures for the big kick off on October 9.

Promoted Tema Youth, which is making a come-back to the elite division after being relegated two seasons ago, have been handed a tough test of facing 21-time champions Asante Kotoko at the Tema Stadium.

Tema Youth CEO, Wilfred Osei Parma told JOY Sports, “It is always the wish of any administrator to start with a less formidable team. Tema has been without Premier League football for sometime so it will be a great opportunity to welcome Kotoko at our home venue.

He added that, “All we need to do is that we raise the morale of these boys and prepare them psychologically and make sure that things are in place before we meet Kotoko.”

Holders Chelsea of Berekum will begin their title defence against Mighty Jets at the Accra Sports Stadium.

New entrants Bechem United have been forced to start life in the top flight with a home game against New Edubiase at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, because the club’s home pitch in Bechem is undergoing rehabilitation works.

Bechem United CEO Kingsley Osei Bonsu told JOY Sports, “The fans are not happy because I have had a lot of calls from them and what they are saying is that we should have tried as much as possible for the team honours its match in Bechem.”

He added that, “I am finding it difficult to explain to the fans because we were expecting the PLB to come and have a second look at our home pitch before the start of the league. We may lose most of our fans in the opening match.”

Liberty Professionals who are still mourning the loss of departed club President Alhaji Sly Tetteh host Aduana Stars at the Karl Reindorf Park in Dansoman.

Debutant Wassaman United will play its first match away to Heart of Lions at the Kpando Park. Wassaman’s General Manager Kurt Okraku insists there are plans to ensure a good start for his side.

In the other opening day fixtures, AshantiGold hosts Dwarfs at the Len Clay and Wa All Stars will play away to Medeama SC.