Bibiani Goldstars shook off their recent lethargy with a gritty 1-0 away victory over Hohoe United in Sunday afternoon’s Matchweek 15 Ghana Premier League encounter at the Hohoe Sports Stadium.
A solitary strike from midfielder Richard Amon Kotey proved crucial as the Miners claimed all three points on the road, condemning the hosts to another frustrating afternoon in front of their home supporters.
Eager to bounce back after last weekend’s narrow defeat away to Berekum Chelsea, Hohoe United started on the front foot. The hosts pressed aggressively, enjoyed early well chunk of possession and looked keen to unsettle their visitors with quick transitions.
However, it was Goldstars who struck first against the run of play. In the 33rd minute, Richard Amon Kotey timed his run to perfection and applied a composed finish to put the Miners ahead, registering his second goal of the campaign after opening his account back in Matchweek Six against Heart of Lions.
Stung by the defeat, Hohoe United responded with renewed energy, pushing bodies forward and creating moments of promise in the box. Yet, despite their enterprise, clear-cut chances were few and far between, and their finishing continued to let them down.
Goldstars adopted a disciplined approach after the break, managing the game astutely and limiting the Hohoe United to speculative efforts. Even as Hohoe United applied late pressure in search of an equaliser, the Miners stood firm, preserving their slender advantage to the final whistle.
The result marks Goldstars’ eighth win of the season and further strengthens their position near the summit. After 14 matches, the Miners boast nine wins, one draw and five defeats, with an outstanding Matchweek 14 fixture against Medeama still to be played on December 31. They now sit third on the league table with 25 points.
For Hohoe United, it was another afternoon of what-might-have-been. Coach Tijani Abdul Rahim Bashiru’s side remain 13th in the standings with 17 points from 15 matches, having recorded four wins, five draws and six defeats so far this term.
By: Pascal Amoah
