Giants Hearts of Oak finally secured their first win in the 2017/18 Ghana Premier League at the third attempt, defeating new city rivals Ebusua Dwarfs 2-0 Thursday.
Patrick Razak and Joseph Esso scored both goals in the second half of their away fixture at Cape Coast Stadium.
Going into the game, the Phobians had only a point – one they secured in their season opener against Eleven Wonders followed by a shock 3-1 home loss to AshantiGold last Saturday.
Dwarfs had burly forward Solomon Okudzeto tormenting the Hearts of Oak defenders but the first half ended even with none of the teams doing enough to break the other down.
Hearts however banished their stuttering start to the new campaign with an improved second half outing.
Razak, who was returning from an injury layoff, was introduced just before second half, replacing youngster Selasie Bakai.
And the diminutive winger’s introduction soon produced a goal – Hearts began to push their attacks through the 28-year-old.
On the 58th minute, an in-swinger from Daniel Sarkodie found a lurking Razak who capitalized on Nana Yaw’s failed clearance to slot home the opener. Patrick Razak received a yellow card for removing his shirt in celebrating the goal.
Hearts doubled their lead in the 76th minute through attacker Joseph Esso. A Malik Akowuah tailored pass from midfield found right-back Christopher Bonney who beat Alhaji Mustapha to the ball with his head before squaring the ball towards Esso to hit a simple finish against his former club. 2-0. Joseph Esso has now scored twice in succession.
Hearts of Oak leapfrog arch-rivals Asante Kotoko to 8th position with better goals as both teams tie on same points, 4 after matchday three.
Hearts’ Malik Akowuah was adjudged NASCO man-of-the-match.
