Ernest Asante scores a classy lob to inspire Stabaek victory

Majestic Ghanaian winger Ernest Asante radiantly glittered with a wonderful lob and an assist for Stabaek IF as he helped them to see off Stromsgodset 3-2 in the Norwegian Eliteserien on Saturday evening.

The 26-year-old former Manchester United trialist graced the Nadderud Stadion with a brilliant 40th-minute finish before turning the architect to set up what turned out to be the match-winner against a ten-man Stroms side.

Asante put his season’s tally to 9 strikes in all competitions and raise his assists to 6.

His performance on Saturday was once again a testament of a superior form that has propelled a Stabaek side managed by former United States and Egypt coach Bob Bradley as they pile the pressure on leaders Rosenborg BK.

Asante has become the solid anchor for Stabaek’s game as he moderates their tirades on opponents with his speed, artistry and dazzling moves as well as his eye-catching finishes.

After Birger Meling had drilled home a powerful low drive from just outside of the box, Asante sneaked his way through two Stromsgodset defenders to apply a sweet touch to a lofty cross from Yassine El Ghanassy.

His touch was superb as much as damaging for Espen Pettersen – the Stromsgodset goalkeeper, who was rooted to his spot as he turned to watch the ball scale above him in a falling leaf style into an unguarded net.

After Ghanassy’s assist, Asante had the obligation to cement the game for Stabaek and he rolled a pass for the Belgian to finished off beautifully to bag the points for the hosts.

Former Ghana U20 midfielder Kamal Issah played full throttle for Stabaek while Mohammed Abu was marched off in the 82nd minute following a second booking. Manchester City loanee Bismark Adjei-Boateng came off the bench to play for Stroms.