Liberty beat Kotoko to survive
Two second half goals by Samuel Sarfo and substitute Samuel Annan in the 66th and 74th minutes respectively gave Liberty Professionals a welcome 2-1 victory over Kumasi Asante Kotoko yesterday at the Carl Reindorf Park during their final game for the 2016/2017 Ghana Premier League.
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The win gave relegation-threatened Liberty premier league lifeline as they cruised comfortably to the 11th position of the league log with 41 points, having recorded 11 wins, eight draws and 11 losses.Liberty could have scored more goals as they dominated the Porcupine Warriors in most departments of the game.
However, the Scientific Soccer lads were very wasteful, especially striker Bernard Arthur, who missed a number of scoring opportunities, including a penalty kick, much to the displeasure of the home fans.
The home side were determined to win to ensure their stay in the league and took charge of the exchanges immediately referee Yaw Ametepe signalted the two sides into action as Michael Osei’s team created some good chances but found their efforts thwarted by Kotoko goalie Ernest Sowah who was superb on the day.
Liberty’s Papa Arko, Gerald Arkeson and Samuel Sarfo combined efficiently upfront to put pressure on the Kotoko shot-stopper but their attempts at goal did not materialise as Sowah made significant saves to deny them every opportunity.
About 18 minutes into the game, Kotoko found their steam but Liberty’s defence was too strong for striker Sadiq Adams and Kwame Boahen to find the opener. However, during one of their many attacks, Baba Mahama fired home the first goal in the 38th minute when he chanced upon a pass from Boahen in Liberty’s 18-yard box to score.
The goal was a shock therapy for Liberty who accepted the challenge and matched Kotoko boot for boot but could not find the net in the first half.
After recess Coach Osei re-strategised as Sarfo cancelled the lead in the 66th minute before substitute Samuel Annan, who replaced Gerald Arkesen, scored the winning goal in the 74th minute by tapping home the ball on the blind side of goalie Sowah.
