Mohammed Zaidan scored two minutes before the end of normal time to give Karela United a 1-0 win over Hearts of Oak and bring the Phobians unbeaten start to the Premier League season to an end.
The decisive goal came in the 88th minute at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, settling an entertaining Matchday Four contest and prompting jubilant celebrations among the home supporters.
Karela made the more purposeful start and fashioned the clearer openings during the first half. However, their pressure produced no reward as they were unable to apply the finishing touch to their chances.
Hearts of Oak had opportunities of their own, but the visitors did not threaten with the same regularity or intensity as Karela United. Despite an eventful opening 45 minutes, neither side found a goal before the interval.
The home team continued to press after the restart, maintaining their attacking approach in search of a breakthrough. Hearts of Oak were able to resist for much of the second half, but Karelas persistence eventually told in the closing stages.
Zaidan created the opening himself, weaving through the Hearts defence before sending a low shot into the net. The composed finish secured all three points for Karela United and completed a hard-fought victory.
The result provides Karela with a significant lift, while Hearts of Oak suffer their first defeat after four matches and lose their unbeaten record at the start of the campaign.
GFA Communications
