Ghanaian club Bibiani GoldStars SC is thriving under former Ghana International, Stephen Frimpong Manso despite arriving at the club in December. Many have easily forgotten the strong team built by Coach Michael Osei in three seasons, which saw them finish 9th and 5th in the 2021/22 and 2022/23 league seasons, respectively.

Manso took over GoldStars following the departure of Osei in the first round, playing his first game against league leaders FC Samertex 1996 in matchday 15. His goal was to transform or guide the Miners to move away from the relegation zone, which seems to have been achieved already.

GoldStars had not won in their last seven league games, causing them to drop to the relegation zone after a good start to the season.

Many might want to applaud the gaffer, Frimpong Manso, for the swift turning point of the club, but much credit could also go to some individuals whose performance has paved the way to glory week in, week out, including Emmanuel Appau. The 2002-born player, though not starting many games under Frimpong Manso, has shown commitment and performance.

Many are beginning to consider him as the secret weapon of Coach Frimpong Manso, delivering whenever called upon.

The Black Mateors winger has made 21 league appearances this season (2023/24), starting 8 times, being substituted in 11 times, and on the bench twice with no suspension record.

Coach Manso's enviable record in 15 league matches is attributed to the work rate and influence of Emmanuel Appau, who is gradually becoming the second most influential player for the side after Alex Esso. The former Asante Kotoko trainer has 4 defeats and 8 victories in the aforementioned games in charge.

The Miners have suffered just one defeat in their last 9 matches, thanks to former Wassaman FC forward Emmanuel Appau. He has scored two goals, assisted twice in GoldStars' last 10 matches, and created 26 goalscoring chances so far this season.

Even from the bench in 11 games this season, Appau has the second most successful take-ons (20) in the set-up behind Charles Gyamfi Kamara (22).

Appau, who is making his third season a delightful one, has been one of the outstanding performers for Bibiani Goldstars this season, showcasing his skills in 21 appearances and playing a total of 1,260 minutes. His contributions to the team have been significant, with him winning 2 Most Valuable Player awards.

Recording the same number of appearances he made in his debut season (21) for Bibiani GoldStars, he has truly proven his worth as a valuable asset for the Miners whether as a starter or coming off the bench as a substitute.

He played a key role in GoldStars holding second-placed Nations FC to a goalless draw in the week 28 fixture away at the Abrankese complex, as he saw a few minutes of game time for the Miners.

Considering his abilities, he is expected to inspire the team to a top 4 or 6 finish this season, having already pushed them to 9th on the log with 39 points.

Appau is already touted by two Ghanaian clubs, Aduana Stars FC and Legon Cities FC, for being very impressive this season. A winger capable of operating as a number 10, he has devised ways of impacting games and adapting to tactics and systems.

Coach Paa Kwasi Fabian is a huge fan of the forward and admires his work ethic. Despite a brilliant first season stint with Legon Cities, he looks to strengthen his side when the season ends. Appau is considered a versatile player, capable of tormenting every defense in the Ghanaian top-flight.

As an attacking gem, he has proved to be the unsung hero of Bibiani GoldStars this season, especially under Coach Stephen Frimpong Manso, with his goal involvement very impressive and admirable despite not commanding enough starting berths.

Story by Kolog Bonaventure