Ghana Pips Togo

Ghana's Black Starlets gave fans that thronged the Ohene Djan Stadium for the official inauguration of the venue on Sunday a perfect reason to smile when they thrashed Togo 4-1 in a special international friendly.

The Starlets, playing Togo for the first time since losing 0-1 to the visitors when they last met at the African U-17 Championship in March 2007 in Togo, had a faultless game fit for its sort.

Ransford Osei began the rampage when he shot Ghana ahead in the 14th minute from a spot kick after a Togo defender had handled the ball in a bid to stage a clearance.

The visitors' reaction was swift but Ghana's goalkeeper, Joseph Addo proved equal to the task.

Togo got better as the game progressed but were unable to pull even before the close of the first half.

Both teams returned from recess more purposeful but it was Osei who credited Ghana with a second goal on the 51st minute when he finished a fine move originated by hardworking Daniel Opare.

Just when Togo seemed to have recovered from their shock, Osei hit them harder with his third for the day that earned him a hat-trick in the 64th minute.

After this goal Togo seemed to have found their rhythm and their consolation was to come in the 81st minute when Gabiamu Vieron scored through a beautiful solo effort.

Ghana's trainer, Emmanuel Quarshie effected a number of changes, and one of the substitutes, Richard Mpong wrapped up the game for Ghana with only three minutes left by ramming in a long range shot.