Hasmal Kill Kotoko’s Dream

Champion Club, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, tumbled in their title defence when they lost 1-2 to visiting Hasaacas at the Coronation Park in Sunyani last Saturday.

Kotoko missed a first half penalty by Mark Adu Amofa and looked on helplessly as Hasaacas grabbed the lead and consolidated the advantage in their march to a rare victory against the champions despite Emmanuel Osei Kuffour's late goal for Kotoko.

The defeat, courtesy second half strikes by Eric Cantona and Daniel Acquaye, left the Porcupine Warriors seven points behind their arch- rivals and main title challengers, Accra Hearts of Oak, with two games remaining.

It was a game that witnessed Kotoko's dominance in the first half, while Hasaacas' tactical play in the second half prevailed.

Hasaacas' stunning lead early in the second half never seemed to overwhelm Kotoko who fought gamely for the equaliser, with the evergreen Osei Kuffour in full glow.

Kuffour's influence was, however, limited to fine play in midfield, while his occasional surges upfront met a strong wall of Hasaacas defence.

With the exchanges swinging in both directions, Hasaacas consolidated their advantage when Acquaye scored to silence the impressive crowd.

Kotoko's late effort paid off when Kuffour atoned for his side's first half misses with their consolation with four minutes left.