Hearts, Bechem United share spoils
Accra Hearts of Oak were yesterday held to a pulsating goalless draw by visiting Bechem United at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Following defeats to Medeama SC on Friday and Asante Kotoko on Saturday, the Phobians were expected to take advantage to reduce the gap at the top to four points, but that did not materialise.
The high-stake encounter burst into life as early as the second minute when Hamza Issah struck the crossbar from close range. Moments later, Mawuli Wayo directed a feeble strike over the goal from the edge of the box.
Bechem United’s Boa-At Regain missed the target with a bicycle kick inside the box, while Augustine Okrah’s surging run into the Phobian area in the 17th minute ended with the ball flashing across goal.
Hearts came close on a few occasions but lacked cutting edge, with striker Hamza Issah leaving the home fans frustrated with his finishing.
Hearts coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani introduced Mohammed Hussein, Theophilus Collision, Yaw Amankwah Baafi and Kwasi Asmah in search of more attacking bite, but the changes did little to alter the outcome.
Bechem United, led by coach Kobina Amissah, adopted a disciplined defensive approach to keep the marauding Phobian forwards at bay and earned a valuable point on the road.
Elsewhere, Bibiani Gold Stars snatched a dramatic late victory after defender Kelvin Oppong struck deep into stoppage time to secure all three points in a tightly contested Ghana Premier League encounter against Swedru All Blacks at DUN’s Park.
The match was evenly balanced from the opening exchanges, with both sides showing discipline and caution, aware of what was at stake.
Gold Stars, keen to end a recent winless run and goal drought, enjoyed more possession in the early stages but struggled to break down a resolute All Blacks defence.
Both teams went into the break level after a goalless but competitive first half, with All Blacks remaining compact and organised.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Gold Stars increasing the tempo as the game wore on, urged forward by the home crowd, while All Blacks threatened sporadically on the counter.
As the contest appeared destined to end in a draw, Gold Stars found the decisive moment deep into stoppage time. Defender Kelvin Oppong capitalised on a late attacking situation to fire home the winning goal, sparking wild celebrations inside the stadium.
The late strike sealed a crucial victory for the defending champions, extending their unbeaten home run and providing a timely boost in confidence.
BY RAYMOND ACKUMEY
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