Kotoko lose 3-1 to Liberty

Kotoko on Sunday surrendered an 8th minute lead to lose 3-1 to Liberty Professionals at the Karl Reindorf Park, Dansoman. The defeat, the third in the second round of the 2014/15 First Capital Plus Premier League, saw Kotoko move from 7th to 9th place on the league table with 25 points.

Striker, Amed Toure gave the Porcupines an impressive start as he connected a perfect Eric Donkor corner kick, to put Kotoko 1-0 up. Things looked bright for Kotoko but not in the 21st minute, when Liberty were blessed with the equalizer through Latif Blessing.

He capitalized on a miscommunication between goalie, Ofori Antwi and left back, Eric Donkor to punish Kotoko. At 1-1, Kotoko seemed daunted. The break however gave the team the need space to re-strategize.

Winger, Prince Baffoe made way for attacker, Elvis Amoh and that marked Kotoko’s second substitution as Abeiku Ainooson had earlier replaced Richard Mpong to fortify the defence.

Liberty were on fire for most part of the second half. Kennedy Ashia’s 61st-minute, well-taken free-kick was superbly stopped by Ofori Antwi but the striker’s anxious search for a goal continued. In the 72nd minute, Kennedy Ashia succeeded in making it 2-1 for Liberty with a good blast on target.

Kotoko preserved but were unsuccessful with their attempts to draw level. While Kotoko hotly pursued what turned out to be an elusive second goal, Liberty Professionals found another reason to celebrate.

A minute into time added-on, Benjamin Agbeko drove the final nail into Kotoko’s coffin as he headed home a corner kick to end the game 3-1.

Kotoko’s next league game is at home to Bechem United on June 28, 2015.

All results - Matchday 19

All Stars 3-0 Olympics

Liberty 3-1 Kotoko

Hearts 0-0 Allies

AshGold 4-1 BA Utd

WAFA 4-1 Hasaacas

Chelsea 1-1 Aduana

Medeama 4-1 Lions

Bechem 3-0 Edubiase