Dreams FC hold Hearts of Oak
Accra Hearts of Oak were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Dreams FC in their Ghana Premier League encounter played at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium last Saturday.
Despite dominating large spells of the contest and creating several clear-cut chances, the Phobians were unable to find the breakthrough, much to the disappointment of the home supporters.
Hearts came into the game full of confidence following a hard-earned 1–0 away victory over Hohoe United the previous weekend and were widely expected to secure maximum points. However, poor finishing and inspired goalkeeping at both ends ensured the points were shared.
Hussein missed chance
The home side started brightly, carving out early opportunities, with Mohammed Hussein missing a golden chance when he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper but failed to convert.
Hearts continued to pile on the pressure as Hamza Issah was twice denied in the first half.
In the 31st minute, a slick exchange of passes opened up the Dreams FC defence, presenting Issah with a clear sight of goal, but his effort drifted narrowly wide.
Twelve minutes later, another chance fell his way following sustained pressure from Hearts, yet his low shot lacked the power to trouble the goalkeeper.
At the other end, Hearts had goalkeeper Benjamin Asare to thank for keeping them level. Asare was in outstanding form throughout the contest, producing a sublime save in the 54th minute to deny Dreams FC the opening goal.
Just six minutes later, he came off his line decisively to thwart another dangerous attack, earning applause from the home crowd.
Half time
After recess, Hearts enjoyed their best opportunity of the match when Hussein again found space in the penalty area, but his effort failed to find the target.
The Phobians continued to press relentlessly, probing for openings against a disciplined Dreams FC backline.
In the 66th minute, Emmanuel Amankwah and Henry Boateng combined brilliantly down the flank, with Amankwah delivering a teasing cross into the box, but there was no teammate on hand to apply the finishing touch.
Just when Hearts appeared firmly in control, Dreams FC launched a swift counterattack that nearly punished the hosts. Once again, Asare rose to the occasion, palming away a powerful, goal-bound header to preserve the clean sheet and cap a commanding individual performance.
