Faisal slows Hearts' revolution

Accra, Oct 5, GNA - A determined Kumasi King Faisal side on Sunday gave Accra Hearts of Oak's coach Kosta Papic some concerns about his team building when they chalked a lone goal victory over their host in the first leg clash of the Asanteman Charity Cup match played at the Ohene Djan Stadium in Accra.

Abdul Rahim Fuseini's first half strike secured victory for Alhaji Gruzah's King Faisal ahead of the second leg of the encounter which has been organised to raise funds for the rehabilitation of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi.

After an exciting outing against the Black Satellites two weeks ago, most Hearts fans had anticipated a much improved performance but it turned out the opposite as the Phobians failed to play as a component. In-form midfielder Charles Taylor came close to breaking the deadlock on 13 minutes but his bending shot from a free-kick hit the cross bar and his effort turned out to be the brightest approach at goal by the Phobians.

Faisal, after a false start suddenly discovered their rhythm and Fuseini slid home from close range on the half hour mark after Hearts had failed to capitalise on a similar situation. The visitors kept hold on their dominance and former Asante Kotoko striker, Abedi Sarfo should have consolidated the lead three minute to half time but the striker surprisingly blasted wide with the yawning net at his mercy.

The second half was more bitter for the Phobians as they laboured to make any meaningful attempt at goal as they lad lacked the experience to cause any havoc when it mattered most. As the game progressed frustrating soon began to set in for Hearts and the only bright one for the side, Taylor paid for that with a caution before being substituted by Raphael Obeng a minute later. Heart's best chance of drawing parity came in the dying minutes of the game but a comedy of errors by substitutes Emmanuel Hammond, Elvis Acheampong and Obeng blew the opportunity. The second leg takes place next weekend. 05 Oct. 08