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Kotoko split points with Liberty in
Glo Top 4 Tournament
Kumasi, Sept. 11 Ghanadot/GNA -
Kumasi Asante Kotoko escaped defeat and managed to settle
with a 1-1 drawn game with Dansoman-based Liberty
Professionals in their second round Glo Top 4 encounter at
the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Wednesday evening.
Liberty Professionals took the lead in the 67th minute after
a goalless first half through Tua Khamix who perfectly
headed home a cross from Eric Boakye from the right flank
into the blind side of goalkeeper Soulama Abdoulaye.
Kotoko who could not translate their numerous scoring
chances in the first half due to the brilliant performance
of goalkeeper Daniel Adjei who saved most of the dangerous
situations came under severe pressure after the goal.
Liberty who beat Kotoko 2-1 in the first round of the
tournament at the Ohene Djan stadium in Accra barely two
weeks ago and showed their determination for a second dose
nearly increased the score in the 70th minute but another
terrific shot from Tua sailed over the bar to the relief of
the Kotoko fans.
The ‘Porcupine Warriors’ who were determined to avoid a
second defeat rallied through out the game and managed to
get the equalizer two minutes later through Eric Bekoe who
tapped in the ball from a pass delivered by Jordan Opoku in
a goalmouth melee.
Kotoko who wanted to avenge the earlier defeat and convince
their teeming supporters of a win on Saturday in their
confederation Cup match against Jeuness Sportive of Kabyile
improved their game while Liberty players resorted to hard
tackling.
The action of the Liberty players did not only infuriate
Kotoko’s Team Manager Opoku Afriyie who nearly vent his
anger on some of the players but also attracted the referee
decision when he sent off Khamix for attracting a second
yellow card for rough play.
The player however refused to leave the pitch and it took
some talk by officials of his side before the striker
reluctantly left the field for play to continue.
Midfielder Stephen Oduro was adjudged the Most Valuable
Player of the match for the second game running and was
presented with a trophy.
GNA
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