Kumasi, Sept.29, GNA - An 86th minute goal scored by Stalwart defender, Michael Asante enabled Kumasi Asante Kotoko to beat Real Tamale United (RTU) 1-0 in their Zone A first leg outstanding Premier League match at the Kumasi Sports stadium on Wednesday.

Kotoko dominated the game right from the blast of the whistle exhibiting all the skills under their sleeves but they could not find the net due to poor marksmanship of their attackers upfront.

They had to wait until the 86th minute before they took the leader through Asante after a series of three corner kicks in a roll taken by Charles Taylor.

Mumuni Baba of RTU was the first to attempt a strike at goal in the fourth minute but his shot was saved by Alhassan Mohammed in the posts for Kotoko.

Kotoko sensing danger quickly took over with Frank Osei missing a glaring chance in seventh minute.

They showed their determination to carry the day by mounting series of attacks on their opponents, shooting from all angels but the defence of RTU stood gallantly to save tricky situations.

On resumption of the second half, Kotoko brought in Charles Taylor and Imbola Sandje to replace George Yamoah and Elves Opoku respectively to strengthen their attack.

RTU also substituted Azumah Musah for Mohammed Naziry to strengthen their defence.

The changes seemed to benefit Kotoko as they remained on top with Charles Taylor leading the attack but he however missed a clear chance to score in the 58th minute when he was left with only the keeper to beat.

Shilla Alhassan replaced Skipper Stephen Oduro on the 67th minute and nearly scored for his side but his header was saved by goalkeeper Mohammed Habib.