Accra Hearts of Oak won their first league derby against arch-rivals Asante Kotoko in Kumasi, for the first time in 10 years, to go seven points clear at the top of the league table.

Hearts have recorded 22 points from nine matches while second-placed Kotoko are on 15 points, same as Heart of Lions, Real Tamale United and Tema Youth.

Goals from Eric Gawu and Obed Ansah gave Hearts a 2-1 victory at a jammed, 40,000-capacity Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday.

Kotoko's consolation goal was by Stephen Oduro in the 77th minute.

The Belgian coach of the defending champions, Maurice Cooreman, blasted referee William Agbovi for his team's loss, while this victory further enhanced the growing reputation of his opposite number, Kosta Papic, among the Hearts fans.

Under the former Orlando Pirates of South Africa coach, Hearts are playing a lot better than they did last season.

Other League results

 RTU       4-0 Tema Youth 
 St Mirren 1-1 Arsenals 
 Hasaacas 3-1 All Blacks 
 Bechem Chelsea 0-0 Lions 
 Ashgold 0-1 Faisal 
 Wa All Stars 2-0 Wise 
 Liberty 1-1 Kessben