Asante Kotoko ended their winless run in the Ghana Premier League with a 2-1 victory over Young Apostles at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday.
The Porcupine Warriors showed greater attacking intent for much of the contest, creating several opportunities but struggling to find the breakthrough in the first half.
Young Apostles also held firm defensively, ensuring the teams went into the interval level despite Kotoko’s attempts to take control.
The hosts returned from the break with renewed purpose and were eventually rewarded in the 70th minute. Patrick Asiedu produced an impressive run down the left flank, beating his marker before delivering a well-timed cut-back into the path of Hubert Gyau, who made no mistake with the finish.
The opening goal gave Kotoko a lift, and they continued to push forward in search of a second to strengthen their grip on the game. Their pressure paid off in the 82nd minute when Solomon Nsor Asaah doubled the lead for the home side.
Emmanuel Sanja played a key role in the goal, carrying the ball forward before picking out Asaah with an accurate pass. The Cameroonian forward, wearing the number 23 shirt, calmly slotted the ball home to put Kotoko in a comfortable position with eight minutes of normal time remaining.
Young Apostles, however, refused to surrender without a fight and gave themselves hope late in the encounter. Huziaf Iddrisu scored directly from a free-kick to reduce the deficit, setting up a tense finish at Baba Yara.
Kotoko managed the closing stages well enough to protect their advantage and secure a valuable three points in front of their home supporters. The result provides a timely boost for the Kumasi-based side as they seek to build consistency in the league.
The victory lifts Asante Kotoko to sixth place in the standings, while Young Apostles remain in the relegation zone following the defeat.
Kotoko will now turn their attention to their next fixture against FC AshantiGold 04, hoping to build on Sunday’s performance. Young Apostles, meanwhile, will look to respond when they host Swedru All Blacks in their next league assignment.