GPL: Kotoko Climb Top; Legon Cities Leap Out Of Relegation Zone As Hearts Drop Points
Asante Kotoko secured a crucial 1-0 victory against Karela United on Sunday, propelling them to the top of the Premier League standings at the Baba Yara Stadium. The match, characterized by a gritty battle between the two teams, saw midfielder Justice Blay score the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute.
Despite a performance that lacked their usual flair, Kotoko’s manager, Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum, expressed satisfaction with the result, which marks a significant comeback for the club as they reclaim the top position from Gold Stars FC. With this win, Kotoko now has 34 points from 18 matches, putting them firmly on track in their quest for the Premier League title.
FC Samartex 1996 faced disappointment at home, settling for a 1-1 draw against Dreams FC. Alhassan Mankuyali Mohammed initially put Samartex ahead in the 48th minute, but Joseph Esso equalized for Dreams, who have struggled throughout the season. Despite the draw, Dreams remain in the bottom three, sitting 10th with 23 points.
Young Apostles triumphed in the Bono derby, narrowly defeating Nsoatreman FC 1-0 thanks to a goal from Emmanuel Fosu Kyei just ten minutes into the second half. This victory marked Apostles’ fifth win of the season, lifting them to 11th place with 21 points, while Nsoatreman finds themselves in 14th position with 18 points.
Basake Holy Stars held Hearts of Oak to a goalless draw in an intense encounter at the AAK II Sports Arena. The Phobians, unable to break down a resolute Holy Stars defense, remain fifth in the league with 30 points, trailing leaders Asante Kotoko by four points.
Berekum Chelsea continued their resurgence, notching a second consecutive home win with a 1-0 victory over Vision FC. Emmanuel Sarpong’s 25th-minute goal ensured Chelsea climbed to eighth place with 25 points, while Vision FC languishes in 12th with 19 points.
Bechem United displayed their impressive form with a convincing 2-0 win over Nations FC. Isaiah Nyarko opened the scoring in the 27th minute, with Emmanuel Abban sealing the victory in the 84th minute. As a result, Bechem United now sits sixth with 30 points, while Nations FC has dropped to fourth.
Hearts of Lions returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Aduana FC. Kwesi Pong and Seedorf Asante scored for the Lions, who maintain their position in third place with 33 points, while Aduana FC struggles at 13th with just 18 points.
Legon Cities climbed above the relegation zone with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Gold Stars FC. Fredrick Akatuk’s goal in the 51st minute proved decisive, lifting the Royals to 15th position, just above Dreams FC, while Gold Stars remain in second place.
