In a dramatic encounter at the Aliu Mahama Stadium, Richmond Ayi’s penalty save and a late penalty denial added a layer of intensity to a Ghana Premier League clash between Karela United and Hearts of Oak, ultimately resulting in a 1-1 draw.
The game in Tamale on Saturday provided no shortage of action, and it was a contest that either side could have emerged victorious from. Karela United, hungry to end their winless streak since October 24, started with a burst of energy. They took the lead in just six minutes, with Owusu Boakye, not the tallest player on the field, heading home from close range and celebrating with open arms, reminiscent of Real Madrid star Jude Bellignham’s signature move.
Watch Emmanuel Owusu Boakye's opening goal for Karela United against Hearts of Oak in the match day 9 of the betPawa Ghana Premier League.
✅️ It was a header in the 6 minutes of the game. pic.twitter.com/zG24N6PB8o
— Andydotcom (@Andydotcom_gh) November 4, 2023
Hearts of Oak, however, quickly responded to the challenge, piling on the pressure, and managed to equalise just before halftime. In-form attacker Hamza Issah was left unmarked and headed the ball into the net from close range for his third goal of the season.
Hamza Issah scores a header, leveling the score in the game.@KarelaUtd_FC 1-1 @HeartsOfOakGH
Showing live on ST Adepa Ch. 247 & StarTimes ON App ?https://t.co/S4e6RFR1t9#GPL #StarTimes #Ghana #GPLonStarTimes #GPLwk9 #betPawaGPLwk9 #KarelaUnited #PrideandPassion pic.twitter.com/YMtl08CBK1
— StarTimes Ghana (@startimesghana) November 4, 2023
The second half continued to be action-packed, with a late penalty awarded to Karela United. However, Richmond Ayi came to Hearts of Oak’s rescue with a crucial save, keeping the score level. But the drama didn’t end there, as deep into stoppage time, Hearts of Oak had a strong claim for a penalty when the ball clearly struck the hand of a Karela United defender. Despite strong protests by Hearts of Oak players, the referee, Andrews Awurisa, stood by his decision, much to their dismay.
Ayi makes a critical save to keep the score level.@KarelaUtd_FC 1-1 @HeartsOfOakGH
Showing live on ST Adepa Ch. 247 & StarTimes ON App ?https://t.co/S4e6RFR1t9#GPL #StarTimes #GPLonStarTimes #GPLwk9 #betPawaGPLwk9 #KarelaUnited #PrideandPassion pic.twitter.com/HVfbt3uJd9
— StarTimes Ghana (@startimesghana) November 4, 2023
Penalty or no penalty ☺️ pic.twitter.com/Vk126gTJlI
— Abdul Wadudu Osman (@WadudJournalist) November 4, 2023
The draw leaves Hearts of Oak still without an away win this season, with their only two wins coming at home. Meanwhile, Karela United continues to face challenges in the league, seeking to regain their winning form. The game showcased the intensity and unpredictability that makes football such a captivating sport for fans.