C.K. Akunnor starts Hearts job with defeat

Newly employed head coach of Accra hearts of Oak Sporting Club, Charles K. Akunnor saw his first assignment with the Phobians ending in defeat as city rivals Liberty Professionals handed them a lone goal defeat at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, in their 21st week Premier League game.

As they lost the first round game, Hearts was determined to make amends for that loss, but this did not reflect in their style of play as they struggled to string their passes together to make the determination a reality.

Hearts had their case worsened in the 17th minute, when their reliable defender, George Osei Bonsu was stretched off for an injury and replaced by Saeed Mohammed resulting in constant leakage in the defence.

Liberty on the other hand were no better but took advantage of a scoring opportunity in the 84th minute through substitute Kwame Boahene, who headed in a ball that bounced off the cross bar back into play with goalkeeper Philemon McCarthy completely beaten despite having a brilliant day.

Hearts made last minute efforts to cancel the lead but it was not enough to grant them that consolation.

Hearts by the defeat have slipped to the fourth place and could have their woes deepened should Berekum Chelsea win their outstanding game in hand.

Keeper McCarthy was the only spark in the Hearts set-up as his several heroic saves prevented Liberty from disgracing the Phobians. His efforts was not enough to deny the determined Dansoman lads from carrying the day and send the turmoil in the Hearts set-up.**