Hearts beat Kotoko in Ghana’s El Classico

Hearts of Oak defeated Asante Kotoko by a lone goal to open a three point lead on the league table with just three games to end the season.

Daniel Afriyie Barnie goal in the 66th minute ensured Hearts of Oak edged closer to a first league title in a decade.

Hearts of Oak were dealt with a blow in the opening minutes as star midfielder Emmanuel Nettey was substituted due to injury. He was replaced by Frederick Ansah Botchway

The first chance of the game came in the 12^th minute for Hearts of Oak as Daniel Afriyie Barnie goal-bound effort was blocked by Abdul Ganiyu.

The ball struck Abdul Ganiyu with calls for a penalty from Hearts of Oak.

The Phobians dominated proceedings in the opening 15 minutes of the game.

Kotoko made their first attempt at goal in the 18^th minute from a Patrick Asmah free-kick which was saved by Hearts goalkeeper Richard Attah

The first yellow card of the game went to Hearts coach Samuel Boadu by referee Daniel Laryea for indecent

Habib Mohammed was shown a yellow card after a bad challenge on Daniel Afriyie Barnie

Randy Ovuoka powered a drive from 40 yards which was saved by Kwame Baah in the 34^th minute from a beautiful solo run

Hearts of Oak were denied by the woodwork in the 36^th minute as Fatawu Mohammed’s effort failed to enter the net.

A timely clearance by Hearts Robert Addo Sowuah prevented Kotoko from a counter break in the 40^th minute.

Hearts defender Mohammed Alhassan nearly scored an own goal in the 44^th minute as he tried to clear a cross from the right-wing

The first half ended goalless with the two sides sharing the spoil.

Just after recess, Ibrahim Salifu had the opportunity to put Hearts of Oak in front but Kwame Baah was up to the task.

Hearts threatened the goal area of Asante Kotoko in the 52^nd minute but a shot from Patrick Razak was deflected for a corner kick.

Kotoko defender Appau came up with a great block to deny a goal-bound effort from Salifu Ibrahim in the 65^th minute

Daniel Afriyie Barnie broke the deadlock for Hearts of Oak in the 66^th minute with a nice finish to the roof of the net.

Asante Kotoko came close to the equalizer in the 78^th minute as Augustine Okrah tried to tap in the ball from a cross which was saved by Richard Attah

The Phobians held on to the lead to record their first win over Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium for the first time in five seasons.

Hearts of Oak have now accumulated 59 points on the league table after this win.

Credit: Ghanasoccernet