GPL: Karela, Samartex, Nations and GoldStars grind out narrow wins as Aduana stumble at home
Matchday 15 of the Premier League delivered tightly contested encounters across the country, with narrow victories, moments of brilliance and crucial points at both ends of the table.
Karela United continued their formidable home form with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Vision FC at the Aliu Mahama Stadium. Malik Abubakar’s 56th-minute strike proved decisive in Tamale, as the hosts maintained their unbeaten home record this season to move comfortably into mid-table. Midfielder Zakaria Abdulai was deservedly named Man of the Match after an outstanding all-round performance.
FC Samartex also edged a tense encounter at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, defeating Heart of Lions 1–0. Emmanuel Mamah’s well-taken 39th-minute goal separated the sides, lifting the Timber giants to sixth place on 24 points, while Heart of Lions slipped to seventh with 23.
Nations FC returned to winning ways at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex with a narrow 1–0 victory over Young Apostles. Emmanuel Annor struck from the penalty spot deep into first-half stoppage time, and the hosts showed resilience after the break to protect their lead. The win extends Nations’ unbeaten home run and moves them up to 10th, easing pressure on head coach Frimpong Manso. Young Apostles, who were seeking back-to-back wins, remain ninth with 20 points.
Defending champions Bibiani GoldStars secured a vital away win, edging Hohoe United 1–0 at the Hohoe Sports Stadium. Richard Kotey’s stunning 33rd-minute free-kick proved the difference, as the Miners produced a disciplined defensive display to see out the contest and claim a rare road victory.
Dreams FC produced one of the weekend’s most convincing performances, beating Berekum Chelsea 3–1 at the Tuba Astroturf. Adamu Aminu opened the scoring early before Abdul Razak Salifu and Suraj Seidu extended the lead in the second half. Kofi Ansu Patrick netted a late consolation for Chelsea, who remain in the bottom three, while Dreams climb to 12th on the table.
League leaders Aduana FC were held to a goalless draw by Hearts of Oak at the Nana Agyemang Badu I Park. Hearts enjoyed the better chances in the first half but failed to capitalise, while Aduana pushed harder after the break without breaking down a resolute Phobians defence.
The stalemate keeps Aduana two points clear at the summit, though second-placed Medeama still have games in hand. Hearts of Oak remain fourth on 25 points after 15 matches.
