First win for Kenichi :Kotoko down Bechem 2-0
After coming under severe criticisms for his team’s lackluster performance, Hearts coach Kenichi Yatsuhashi responded to his critics with a 2-0 victory against visiting Nigerian side, FC Ifeanyi-Ubah, in an international friendly at the Accra Stadium Tuesday.
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It was the first major win for the Phobians under the guidance of the Americo-Japanese trainer following a string of successive defeats in pre-season matches, and with three weeks ahead of the commencement of the Premier League, yesterday’s emphatic win must have brought some relief to Yatsuhashi as he hopes to win over the club’s fans.
A goal in each half sealed victory for the Phobians in a physical encounter which saw referee Maxwell Hanson dish out so many yellow cards in an effort to stamp his authority on the match.
Hearts started off in a business-like manner, launching early onslaughts and succeeding in keeping the Nigerian side at bay and on the back foot, even though they lacked the finesse and
In the 34th minute, striker Eric Kumi latched onto the ball from his half, led a solo run along the flanks before releasing a beautiful cross to advancing Samudeen Ibrahim to slot home at the blind side of goalkeeper Edwin Hwakama for the opener.
Back from recess, Ifenayi-Ubah charged on the homesters in search of the equalising goal, with striker Ifeanyi Onuigbo coming close to finding the net but his efforts went wide as the Phobians struggled to contain the onslaught.
Hearts fought back strongly and by the hour mark began to dictate the pace of the game. In the 64th minute, Robin Gnagne released winger Thomas Abbey, whose two-man play with substitute striker Selasi Adjei put the game beyond the visiting side. Adjei beat an advancing Edwin Hwakaman for Abbey to slot into an empty net to increase the tally and give his side a morale-boosting victory.
At the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi Asante Kotoko defeated Bechem United 2-0 to lift the Akwesidae trophy, reports Donald Ato Dapatem.
Kotoko capitalised on their chances in the first half and scored twice through a seventh minute strike by Kwasi Nti and a 45th minute spot kick by Dauda Muhammad.
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After taking the early lead, Kotoko dominated the first half and were hardly troubled by the visiting side.
After recess, a reinvigorated Bechem took charge of the exchanges by creating several scoring chances but could not find the back of the net in a highly entertaining game.
Kotoko captain, Kwadwo Poku, was presented with a gold-plated trophy by Nana Obrempong Kusi Obuadom, Domeabrahene, who donated the trophy.