Accra, Jan. 11, GNA – Asante Kotoko strengthened their lead at the top with a 2-1 win over Liberty Professionals in the penultimate match of the first round of the season on Wednesday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

A goal in each half from Kofi Nti Boakye and Richard Yeboah ensured the Porcupine Warriors moved two points clear at the summit of the standings after bitterest rivals Hearts of Oak slipped to a barren draw against debutants Bechem United.

Liberty pulled one back in stoppage time through James Abban from the spot.

Kotoko, who were without at least four key players made the most of the chances that came in the encounter that saw the hosts having the better of the exchanges.

The Dansoman-based club were unlucky to have ended the game without a point after dominating possession.

The Porcupine Warriors got off to a bright start before Liberty took over after the quarter-hour mark.

Liberty midfielder Kennedy Ashia forced a diving save from Kotoko goalie Soulama Abdoulaye from a free-kick on 14 minutes.

With the first half almost certain for a stalemate, Kotok broke the deadlock on the stroke of time. Striker Nathaniel Asamoah capitalized on a loss of concentration by the Liberty defence before laying to Boakye, who slammed home from close range.

Two minutes into the second half, Boakye turned provider by outwitting Liberty’s Daniel Gyamfi, fetched Michael Anaba, whose pass was met with a shot from Yeboah that left Liberty goalie Razak Issa with no option.

With defeat staring at them, Liberty took charge of the game in search of a consolation and possibly the equalizer.

Luck eventually smiled at them on stoppage time when Abban was fouled in the penalty area for a resultant penalty, which he blasted pass Soulama.

But it was little late as referee Joe Baffoe brought proceedings to an end seconds later.