Tamale City made a return to football in the country after almost nine months as they kicked off their Special Competition on a scrappy 2-0 victory over neighbours, Gbewaa FC at the Aliu Mahama Stadium on Saturday.

Tamale City took the lead in the 80th minute, as Kumasi based Affa Rida slotted home a beautiful finish.

The striker was put through from a wonderful pass from substitute Marlvin Atsu, as the the Citizens struck first out of nothing in the second half after squandering nine glorious opportunities in the first half.

City finally doubled their advantage in the 90th minute, as Gbewaa FC captain, Dawuda Safianu put through his own net after pressure from City’s attacker.

City were poor in the second half after a perfect start to the game with clear chances.

However it took the Citizens just one clinical break to punish their visitors after Gbewaa were reduced to 10men when Mohammed Abdul Rahim was giving his matching orders for a second bookable offence in the 75th minute.

Though the 2-0 score line seems to reflect on a comfortable win, it was far from it as Tamale City didn’t really look up to scratch and looked lethargic.

Despite their mediocre performance they took their chances at the end of the day, as Hamza Mohammed’s side earned a crucial victory at The Aliu Mahama Stadium without their head coach, Sellas Tetteh.