The Porcupine Warriors are yet to record a win after two games following their trip to the Gulf region
Asante Kotoko shared the spoils 1-1 with Dubai’s lower division side Liwa FC in a pre-season friendly at Shababal Ahli Stadium on Sunday.
Following a defeat to Al Hilal United last week, Kotoko coach Prosper Ogum Narteh ringed changes in his squad for the clash against Liwa.
Goalkeeper Razak Abalora maintained his place in post once again ahead of Kwame Baah while Maxwell Agyemang came in for Moro Ibrahim at left back. However, Christopher Nettey kept his place as Agyemang Maxwell partnered Ismail Abdul Ganiyu in central defence.
Midfielder Patrick Asmah wa deployed in a makeshift central midfield role to partner Mudasiru Salifu and Richmond Lamptey while Dickson Afoakwa and Joseph Amoako took charge of the flanks.
New signing Stephen Amankonah Amankonah led the attack and Brazilian Fabio Gama was put behind him.
After an end-to-end action in the opening half hour mark, Kotoko began to exert pressure on Liwa in search of the opening goal.
Amankonah finally broke the deadlock with a fine finish by the 41st minute.
Afoakwa was offered an opportunity to double Kotoko’s lead minutes later but he fluffed the chance.
After the break, Kotoko missed several chances and their profligacy later came to hunt them.
Liwa snatched the equaliser against the run of the play following a defensive error.
Although, Kotoko pressed their opponents to find an opening and score the winner, Liwa’s defensive setup was very resolute and they held on to pick a priceless draw against the African giants.
Kotoko are expected to play at least one more game before they depart Dubai next weekend to continue preparations for the 2021/22 Ghana Premier League season.
They will play their first game of the season against Dreams FC in Dawu on October 31 before they host Bechem United at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium a week later.