Asante Kotoko interim coach Prince Yaw Owusu has admitted their title ambitions have been dented following the defeat to Hearts of Oak in the Ghana Premier League.

Baba Adamu’s 14th-minute looping header condemned the Porcupines to their first defeat at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium this term.

The loss dropped Kotoko to fifth on the table, nine points adrift of leaders Medeama SC.

"It's made it very difficult for us,” Owusu said in a post-match interview.

"We need to fight very hard; it is not easy.

“They were rushing to score [against Hearts], and it cost us. We need to talk to them and work with them."

It was Owusu’s first match at the helm following the resignation of Karim Zito.

When quizzed about his ability to lead the Porcupines, he said: “Yes, I am the right man to lead Kotoko.”

Kotoko, who are now outside the top four, will be eager to respond when they face Young Apostles on Matchday 23.