Hearts edge Samartex to return to winning ways

Hearts of Oak returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Samartex FC at the University of Ghana Stadium.

A first-half strike from Hamza Issah proved decisive as the Phobians secured all three points in an entertaining encounter.

Fresh from an impressive draw away to Aduana Stars, head coach Didi Dramani made just one change to his starting lineup, handing Theophilus Collison a start in place of David Oppong Afrane.

Samartex coach Christopher Ennin also named a strong side, with former Hearts defender Kofi Agbesimah partnering Roland Grippman at the heart of defence.

Both teams started brightly, creating early chances. Samartex nearly took the lead just two minutes after kick-off, but Emmanuel Mamah’s effort was well dealt with.

Hearts broke the deadlock through Hamza Issah, who calmly converted after Mawuli Wayo dispossessed Roland Grippman in a dangerous area.

The goal was Issah’s fourth of the season.
The Phobians pushed for a second, coming close in the 19th minute when Karikari curled an effort from a fine pass, only for the Samartex goalkeeper to parry it out for a corner.

Samartex responded as Christian Boateng forced a save from Hearts goalkeeper Solomon Agabasi.

However, Hearts gradually took control of proceedings as the visitors struggled to settle.
Mawuli Wayo had a golden opportunity to double the lead before halftime but fired wide. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of the hosts.

After the break, Hearts piled pressure on Samartex in search of a second goal. George Paaku came close but blasted his effort wide.
Samartex created several chances of their own but failed to find the equaliser.

Hearts also missed a clear opportunity to make it 2-0 when Theophilus Collison’s lob sailed over the goalkeeper and onto the roof of the net.
The Phobians held firm to see out the match and secure the win at the final whistle.

The victory lifts Hearts of Oak to second place on the league table, pending the outcome of Sunday’s fixtures. They will travel to Tarkwa next week to face Medeama SC in their final game of the first round.