FC AshantiGold 04 and Asante Kotoko shared the spoils in an entertaining Ashanti Derby after playing out a 1-1 draw in their Ghana Premier League (GPL) Matchday 8 encounter at the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi on Sunday.
The Miners took the lead in the first half through a deflected long-range effort from Boateng before Patrick Asiedu produced a stunning free-kick to restore parity for the Porcupine Warriors after the break.
AshantiGold, who entered the contest with an impressive home record, were hoping to extend their winning run at Len Clay and secure regional bragging rights against their illustrious rivals.
Their persistence paid off in the 41st minute when Boateng unleashed a long-range strike that took a slight deflection off Joseph Amoah before beating the Kotoko goalkeeper and finding the back of the net.
The goal gave the hosts a 1-0 advantage heading into the closing stages of the first half, putting them in a strong position to continue their impressive home form.
However, Kotoko responded after the interval and gradually worked their way back into the contest as they searched for an equaliser.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 63rd minute when Asiedu stepped up to take a free-kick and unleashed a powerful effort that flew into the net, restoring parity for the visitors in spectacular fashion.
The equaliser lifted the Porcupine Warriors, who were keen to secure their first away victory of the season after a difficult start on the road.
Both sides were unable to find a decisive goal in the remaining minutes, with the contest ending 1-1.
The result means AshantiGold missed the opportunity to claim another home victory, while Kotoko will take encouragement from their response after falling behind.
Despite the absence of a winner, the draw ensured that neither side could claim outright supremacy in this latest edition of the Ashanti Derby, with both teams settling for a point in Obuasi. Enditem
