Accra, Jan. 30, GNA – Accra Hearts of Oak edged King Faisal 1-0 in a match-day 15 encounter of the 2021/22 Ghana Premier League played at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Kwadwo Obeng Junior provided the all-important strike for the Phobians as they moved into fifth position on the league table, level on 23 points with King Faisal.
King Faisal’s striker Mawuli Wayo had the ball at the back of the net in the second minute of the game, but Referee Frederick Samena judged a foul incident on Hearts goalkeeper Richmond Ayi.
Hearts despite their slow start had a chance on quarter-hour to take the lead but Afriyie Barnieh could not put the ball past King Faisal goalkeeper Frank Boateng who raced out to clear his lines.
Obeng Junior deservedly put Hearts in front just halfway through the first half as he powered in a low drive from 20-yards with goalkeeper Frank Boateng unable to keep out the strike.
Obeng Junior nearly grabbed his second of the game a few minutes later after he dazzled past three defenders, but his cheeky strike missed by inches.
Obeng Junior seemed unstoppable in the game and once again got close on the half hour mark but his header from close range kissed the crossbar.
King Faisal on the hand barely threatened the Hearts defence as they were often left to try their luck from long distance.
Zubairu Ibrahim did so on the 35th minute mark but his shot was feeble as Hearts goalie Richmond Ayi safely gathered.
Enock Morrison nearly pulled parity on the stroke of half time with a well struck free kick, but Hearts goalkeeper Richmond Ayi delivered a staggering save to keep Hearts lead intact.
Obeng Junior who was splendid in the first half came close to getting his second on day right at the start of the second half, but his header sealed wide.
King Faisal striker Ibrahim Wayo had a glorious opportunity to pull parity for the away side but shockingly missed from close range to the relief of the Hearts defence who were caught ball watching.
King Faisal seemed to have found their rhythm past the hour mark and looked more dangerous in the attacking third.
Salim Adams should have doubled the lead for Hearts in the 63rd minute but shockingly missed with the open goal at his mercy.
The introduction of Gladson Awako and Kofi Kordzi to the Hearts final third did spark their attack as Hearts looked the more likely side to get the next goal.
King Faisal huffed and puffed for the equalizer, but Hearts stood their ground to secure all three points.
GNA