Head coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani has admitted that Hearts of Oak anticipated a stern challenge against Bibiani GoldStars, but ultimately paid the price for failing to convert their opportunities in a 2-1 loss at Dun’s Park.
The Phobians traveled to Bibiani aware of the threat posed by the reigning champions, yet they found themselves trailing early when Samuel Acheampong struck in the 15th minute. GoldStars protected their slender advantage heading into the break, frustrating the visitors attempts to restore parity.
After the interval, Hearts responded with greater urgency. Their persistence was rewarded when youngster Henry Kwaku Boateng drew them level 19 minutes into the second half, setting up a tense finale.
However, just as the game appeared headed for a stalemate, Augustine Boakye rose highest to power home a late header, sealing maximum points for the Miners and boosting their title defense ambitions. The victory leaves GoldStars within touching distance of leaders Medeama SC.
Reflecting on the contest, Dramani acknowledged that his side had prepared for GoldStars’ strengths but were undone in key moments.
“We knew we were coming up against a very strong transitional side,” he said after the match. “They have enormous home support and we were fully aware of what they could do, especially with their wide play.”
Despite controlling phases of the encounter, the former Black Stars assistant coach conceded that inefficiency in front of goal proved costly.
“We had our moments from the first half into the second, but we must grow in our game. In decisive moments, we need to be more clinical and more composed,” he added.
The defeat extends Hearts’ winless run to two matches, increasing the pressure ahead of their next fixture. The Rainbow Club will return to Accra to host Basake Holy Stars in a must-win clash as they seek to keep their title aspirations alive.