Kotoko split points with Liberty in Glo Top 4 Tournament

Kumasi, Sept. 11 GNA - Kumasi Asante Kotoko escaped defeat and managed to settle with a 1-1 drawn game with Dansoman-based Liberty Professionals in their second round Glo Top 4 encounter at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Wednesday evening. Liberty Professionals took the lead in the 67th minute after a goalless first half through Tua Khamix who perfectly headed home a cross from Eric Boakye from the right flank into the blind side of goalkeeper Soulama Abdoulaye.

Kotoko who could not translate their numerous scoring chances in the first half due to the brilliant performance of goalkeeper Daniel Adjei who saved most of the dangerous situations came under severe pressure after the goal.

Liberty who beat Kotoko 2-1 in the first round of the tournament at the Ohene Djan stadium in Accra barely two weeks ago and showed their determination for a second dose nearly increased the score in the 70th minute but another terrific shot from Tua sailed over the bar to the relief of the Kotoko fans. The 'Porcupine Warriors' who were determined to avoid a second defeat rallied through out the game and managed to get the equalizer two minutes later through Eric Bekoe who tapped in the ball from a pass delivered by Jordan Opoku in a goalmouth melee. Kotoko who wanted to avenge the earlier defeat and convince their teeming supporters of a win on Saturday in their confederation Cup match against Jeuness Sportive of Kabyile improved their game while Liberty players resorted to hard tackling. The action of the Liberty players did not only infuriate Kotoko's Team Manager Opoku Afriyie who nearly vent his anger on some of the players but also attracted the referee decision when he sent off Khamix for attracting a second yellow card for rough play. The player however refused to leave the pitch and it took some talk by officials of his side before the striker reluctantly left the field for play to continue. Midfielder Stephen Oduro was adjudged the Most Valuable Player of the match for the second game running and was presented with a trophy. 11 Sept. 08