Medeama SC head coach Ibrahim Tanko says his side paid the price for a lapse in focus after surrendering a first-half lead to draw 2–2 with Asante Kotoko in their matchweek 12 clash at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
“We lost concentration and conceded two goals after taking the lead. It’s painful, but that’s football,” Tanko admitted, reflecting on a result that denied the Yellow and Mauves what would have been a crucial away victory.
Medeama made an explosive start, opening the scoring inside the first five minutes through Derrick Fordjour, who struck a composed volley after Kotoko failed to clear a loose ball in the box. Their lead was extended in the 18th minute when Yussif Mubarik calmly dispatched a penalty, silencing the home fans and sending the travelling supporters into delight.
Kotoko mounted a spirited response in front of their home crowd, overturning Medeama’s opener in the 69th minute when Peter Amidu Acquah reacted quickest in a crowded area, smashing the ball into the net to restore hope for the Porcupine Warriors.
Kotoko maintained relentless pressure in pursuit of an equaliser, and their determination finally paid off deep into added time. Captain Samba O’Neil climbed highest to nod in a last-gasp leveller in the 95th minute, sparking wild celebrations across the Baba Yara stands, as Medeama settled for a share of the spoils in a keenly contested Ghana Premier League encounter.
Medeama were moments away from moving top of the league but stay second following consecutive draws. Kotoko, meanwhile, took the point without fully shaking off the sting of their midweek loss at Basake Holy Stars.
Next up, Kotoko will head to Hohoe United, while Medeama host Berekum Chelsea as both clubs look to return to winning ways
By: Pascal Amoah
