Kotoko continued their unbeaten run in their last five games as they triumphed over rivals Hearts of Oak at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. A splendid display by Coach Prosper Ogum’s boys who gave it their all to settle the win in the second half capped off by a brilliant display from of Steven Mukwala, Richmond Lamptey and Isaac Oppong whose names were on the lips of supporters after the game.
First Half Highlights
It was a terrific first half between Hearts of Oak and Kotoko as the sides were all square at the break. Goals from Congolese midfielder Linda Mtange who was at the end of a beautiful free kick from Salifu Ibrahim and youngster Isaac Oppong, who recently returned from a long injury, equalizing for the Porcupine Warriors just before half time.
Hearts of Oak dominated the first half where they created most of the chances but could not convert their chances with Linda Mtange missing a glorious chance in the first minute of the match.
Second Half highlights
It was brilliant second half for Asante Kotoko as they scored two more goals to clinch a win over Hearts of Oak. Steven Mukwala scored both goals for Kotoko in the Super Clash on his third appearance after failing to score in the last 2 games against Hearts of Oak. He has also become unstoppable in Kotoko’s recent games. The Ugandan striker has scored in four straight matches in all competitions for the first time and has been directly involved in the club’s last 9 goals.
Martin Karikari scored a goal in the second half for Hearts of Oak after he was brought on for Salifu Ibrahim in the second half.
It was a noticeable stand-out performance by central midfielder Richmond Lamptey who was on fire in Kotoko’s midfield. It is clear Coach Prosper Ogum has made him an integral part of the team and structured the team to operate through him. Lamptey is arguably the best midfielder in the GPL at the moment, with some fans urging Chris Hughton to give Kotoko’s talisman a call-up to Black Stars.
Another key performance was from Blay. Asante Kotoko have now won in all the games Justice Blay has played this season. The central midfielder has been influential for Kotoko so far after not being able to settle in over the past season.
Kotoko play Great Olympics next in Accra.
