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Asante Kotoko failed to pin down Hearts of Oak at home in outstanding week fourteen fixture against bitterest rivals Hearts of Oak on Sunday afternoon.
It was a game both clubs had a fair share of chances but failed to make good use of the opportunities that befell them in the fascinating encounter.
Asante Kotoko talisman Kwame Opoku failed to open the deadlock for the Porcupine Warriors by missing a penalty in the second minute of the game.[ads2]
Kotoko were awarded a penalty after Nuru Sulley fouled Kwame Opoku in the eighteen-yard box but the former Nkoranza Warriors striker had his kick saved by goalkeeper Richard Attah.
This gave the visitors an energy that saw them warming themselves up to the game better with the likes of Patrick Razak coming close to goal.
Razak nearly had the opener for Asante Kotoko in the 6th minute but the woodwork prevented his strike from entering the net of the homesters.
The first half was a balanced game with Guinea international Naby Keita also coming close to goal but goalkeeper Richard Attah saved the situation for the Porcupines.[ads3]
Both clubs retuned from the break to showcase brilliant display and determination to get the opener but all efforts were fruitless.
Hearts of Oak introduced Isaac Mensah as replacement for Kojo Obeng Junior as Adom Frimpong and Mudasiru Salifu replaced by Emmanuel Sarkodie and Naby Keita for Asante Kotoko.
Coach Samuel Nii Noi’s changes manifested as the Phobians started piling pressure on the Porcupines which earned them a penalty on the 70th minute after Isaac Mensah was fouled by goalkeeper Razak Abalora.
But substitute Isaac Mensah failed to convert to penalty as coach Razak Abalora fisted the ball out.[ads4]
Kotoko topscorer Kwame Opoku had a glaring opportunity as his effort was once again denied by goalkeeper Richard Attah on the 79th minute of the game.
On the 86th minute, Opoku nearly redeemed his image after missing the spot-kick but his powerful strike was denied by the woodwork.
The game ended goalless which means Hearts of Oak have extended their unbeaten run to three games.[ads5]
