Kumasi Asante Kotoko maintained their winning streak with a second away win at Bibiani in the Western North Region by beating Goldstars 1-0 at the Dun’s Park last Friday.
Isaac Oppong emerged the hero of the day when his 55th minute goal turned out to be the match winner to give the Porcupine Warriors the bragging rights and strengthen their grip at the top with nine points.
Goldstars, who defeated Berekum Chelsea 1-0 in their maiden Premier League match at the Dun’s Park two weeks ago, were optimistic of repeating the dose against Kotoko as their vociferous fans painted the Bibiani township with their colours prior to the match.
By midday, the stadium, including the media stand, was full, amidst non-stop drumming and dancing.
Featuring mainly budding talents, Goldstars gave Kotoko a good run for their money with a first-half pressure to placate their fans.
They dominated play right from the start in search of the opener, but goalkeeper Razak Abalora was always on hand to save the situation.
The Porcupine Warriors also mounted some momentary incursions into the opponents territory, but were held in check by the experienced former Hearts of Oak defender, Nuhu Sulley. Sulley made sure that Christopher Nettey and Fabio Gama were stopped each time they attacked.
Isaac Oppong (also known as Sunyani Neymar) scored a classic goal to put his side ahead in the 55th minute after capitalising on a defensive lapse by Yakubu Dzia Ull Haqq to slot in the opener.
As the game became more exciting, Referee Maxwell Hanson tripped and fell, injuring himself in the process leading to a temporary hold-up. He, however, recovered soon afterwards to continue officiating after being attended to by the paramedics.
From then on, Kotoko’s stamina and fighting spirit were at play, pushing the home team on a back footing.
However, the home team recovered to launch a late rally for the equaliser but agile Abalora saved the day for Kotoko with some gallant saves.
