The penultimate round of the season was full of drama as King Faisal got relegated before the final day while Medeama saw title celebrations delayed with Hearts of Oak finally bowing out of the top four.
The exciting events at the various match centres have set up a fascinating final day ahead. These are the major talking points from round 33 of the league.
SAMARTEX DELAY MEDEAMA’S TITLE CELEBRATIONS
Going into their match against Samartex at the Nsenkyire Stadium, Medeama only had to secure a win to clinch the much sought-after title but failed to do so as their opponents proved challenging at home. Having last lost at home to Kotoko, Samartex were determined to keep their total home defeats at two as they held Medeama SC to a goalless draw.
Meanwhile Bechem United ensured the title battle went to the wire as they comfortably beat Brekum Chelsea 2-0 keeping the gap from the top at three points as the final day nears.
Medeama, however, just need a point to win the league.
ADUANA STARS FINALLY BOW OUT OF TITLE RACE
After leading the standings for almost the entire period, Paa Kwesi Fabin’s men finally bid farewell to the league title ending their hopes of winning it after six years. Nsoatreman FC beat the Ogya lads 2-1 at the Nana Koromansah making it impossible for Aduana to return to the top even if they win their final match which is against title contenders Bechem United.
KING FAISAL RELEGATED
Despite an impressive 3-1 win over Legon Cities, King Faisal have now been confirmed relegated due to the outcome of other matches. Even though they stand a chance of matching 15th-placed Tamale City’s 42 points if they win on the final day, their head-to-head record will strike them as they lost 4-0 to Tamale City while winning 1-0 at home.
Meanwhile, the title race has been reduced to a two-horse race between Medeama SC and Bechem United while lower teams with regards to the standings are rather keeping fans in interesting anticipation as all teams below the top 10 challenge for top flight retention.
The point gap between Hearts of Oak who currently sit 11th and Great Olympics who are 16th is just three which means all teams except Kotoku Royals and King Faisal who have already been relegated will have to play above themselves and depend on other results on the final day to know their fate. Legon Cities, Karela United, Tamale City, and Accra Lions are all involved in the unwanted battle.
HEARTS MISS OUT ON TOP FOUR TO FACE RELEGATION
After giving up on the title, the Phobians strongly targeted a top-four finish which could have handed them the opportunity to at least participate in the renowned GHALCA competition.
However, their alternative plan have turned upside down as they now face relegation with just three points above the danger zone. Their troubles were compounded by a defeat to Real Tamale United at the Accra Sports Stadium. The task ahead looks much tougher as they get ready for a final day clash against Berekum Chelsea at Golden City Park.
KOTOKO TO COMPENSATE FANS WITH TOP FOUR FINISH
The Porcupines may not be in the title race anymore but have one to compensate the fans in a top four finish. They earned a crucial win against Accra Lions which means they would have to avoid defeat in their last match to seal a fourth-place finish.
With Aduana Stars looking unstable at the moment, Kotoko could even go the extra mile to finish third which would be a big blessing for the defending champions considering their inconsistencies throughout the season.
