The Giants of the West picked a vital away point at an unfavourable ground as they continue to push for the solitary slot back to the top-flight next season
Bibiani Gold Stars shared the spoils 1-1 with Sekondi Hasaacas in matchday 12 in Zone Two of Ghana Division One League at the Dun’s Park in Bibiani on Wednesday.
Maxwell Boakye saved coach Kobbinah Amissah’s blushes with a late strike after they looked destined to lose the game after wonderful strike from Samuel Afful.
Gold Stars had a blistering start to the game as Patrick Okine saw his free-kick missing the target by a whisker on third minute after Hasaacas defender Ben Ankrah had handled the ball.
By the half-hour mark, the hosts came close to taking the lead once again when Maxwell Boakye played Okine through but the latter couldn’t send his effort past on-rushing goalkeeper Anthony Brebo.
Two minutes later, Sampson Eduku had the brightest of chances in the first half to send Hasaacas in front but the former Karela United striker surprisingly fluffed that opportunity.
After the break, Hasaacas had the lion’s share of the early chances as Gold Stars were wobbling in midfield but the visitors couldn’t make it count.
Agyin sent a powerful shot off target by 52nd minute before Badu Isaac made a timely clearance after Samuel Afful sent a cut back to Agyin to tap in.
Seven minutes later, Afful capitalised on a defensive blunder against the run of play and calmly slotted in his effort to put the visitors ahead.
Gold Stars regrouped and threw men forward for the equaliser but Abeiku Ainoosen proved to be a pillar at the back for Hasaacas as he dealt with almost every dangerous build up.
However, Gold Stars found a breach in Hasaacas’ defence by the 83rd minute to snatch the equaliser. Midfielder Maxwell Boakye latched on to a pass from his teammate and went past his marker before sending his last ditch effort beyond the reach of goalkeeper Bŕebo.
There were several temporal hold up and scuffles between players of both sides and the referees as well as technical teams as homes fans also displayed their displeasure particularly on officiating.
Despite Gold Stars pushing for a winner, Hasaacas kept their cool and were resolute at the back to record a vital away point. The referees were held hostage for minutes before the police and fire service officers helped to escort them to their dressing room.