Kotoko Close in on League Championship

Kumasi Asante Kotoko brightened their chances of winning this year's GT Premier League by beating city-rivals King Faisal 2-0 in their tough match played at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

Kotoko took no chances in the match and scored their first goal in the 19th minute through a powerful header from Douglas Nkrumah which goalkeeper Aziz Basiru had no answer to it.

Faisal, playing without their key defender Habib Mohammed and striker Eric Gawu, put Kotoko defence on their toes after the goal but could not make any breakthrough.

They however, pressed for the equalizer but when the chance arrived in the 26th minute, Charles Ampiah shot off target.

In the 40th minute Kotoko's Nana Arhin Duah outwitted two Faisal defenders and raced with the ball into shooting range, but his final shot missed the post narrowly. Soon after, George Yamoah also fumbled and allowed Faisal defence to clear the ball when he was in an advantageous position.

During the second half, both sides lifted their game but it was Kotoko who were on top and it was no wonder that Arhin Duah increased the tally in the 57th minute when he chipped the ball into the net from a Yusif Chibsah pass.

Faisal made series of incursions to redeem at least a goal, but the defence of Kotoko stood firm, making it difficult for Alaric Grunzah's boys to find the net.

There was wild jubilation after the final whistle by Kotoko supporters when the news came that their archrivals Accra Hearts of Oak had lost 0-2 to Power FC at Tema.

The supporters started with the jubilation as those in their cars tooted their horns, while others went on a procession in the principal streets, singing "Abamu Awie" (meaning: the deed has been done) and waving the club's colours.