Asante Kotoko left it late to defeat Bechem United 2-0 on matchday two of Ghana Premier League at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday
The Porcupine Warriors boss maintained the starting line up that defeated Dreams FC on opening day while Bechem United made one change in their squad that annihilated Medeama at home.
Latif Anabila came in for Abdul Karim who saw red card to tighten the midfield.
After an early exchanges, chances began to fall for both sides.
Emmanuel Avornyo was presented with the biggest chance of the game by the ninth minute as he came on on one with Razak Abalora but the lanky striker could not round him.
Ten minutes later, Kotoko’s Samuel Boateng was played through by Fabio Gama but the striker was unable to beat goalkeeper Abdulai Iddrisu with his shot.
Kotoko were forced to make a substitution by the 33rd minute after defender Patrick Asmah fell down and signalled that he cannot continue. Imoro Ibrahim was brought on to fill the void.
Richmond Lamptey was provided with the first chance after the break but the midfielder skied his effort on the 49th minute.
Augustine Okrah had the opportunity to break the deadlock at the other end two minutes. The Bechem forward went past goalkeeper Razak Abalora but his last ditch effort was cleared of the line by Yussif Mubarik.
On the 75th minute, Okrah combined with Avornyo to create an opening in Kotoko’s defence but the latter’s shot was too feeble to cause a threat to goalkeeper Abalora.
Asante Kotoko were awarded a penalty after Isaac Oppong was heckled in the box. Ismail Abdul Ganiu stepped up and sent the ball beyond the reach of goalkeeper Iddrisu.
Deep in additional time, Samuel Boateng added another goal after meeting a cross from substitute Isaac Oppong.
