Hearts of Oak defeat Berekum Chelsea to return to winning ways

Hearts of Oak ended their two-game winless streak with a commanding 2-0 away victory over Berekum Chelsea in Matchday Six of the Ghana Premier League at the Golden City Park.

Second-half goals from Hamza Issah and Mawuli Wayo secured a vital win for the Phobians, who continue their unbeaten start to the campaign.

Berekum Chelsea, buoyed by an impressive draw against Karela United in Tamale, entered the game full of confidence. Coach Samuel Boadu came up against his former side, handing a start to ex-Hearts goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi.

On the other hand, Hearts coach Didi Dramani deployed Hamza Issah upfront alongside Enoch Asuboteng and Raphael Amponsah, with young midfielder Rocky Dwamena earning his first start of the season.

The visitors dominated early possession but struggled to trouble Ofori Antwi in goal. Hamza Issah combined well with Asuboteng but failed to convert their best opening of the first half.

Hearts suffered a setback in the 28th minute when Amankwah Baafi picked up an injury and was replaced by Mawuli Wayo.

Berekum Chelsea came close through Prince Anane, whose strike narrowly missed the target, while Hussein Mohammed and Raphael Amponsah also went close for the Phobians.

After the break, Hearts intensified their pressure, and their persistence paid off when Hamza Issah broke the deadlock, slotting past Ofori Antwi to give the visitors the lead.

Chelsea’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when goalkeeper Ofori Antwi was shown a red card, leaving the hosts a man down.

Hearts took full control of the game and sealed the win in added time as substitute Mawuli Wayo struck from close range to make it 2-0.

The victory means Hearts have kept a clean sheet in all six league matches so far and have climbed to third place with 12 points. Berekum Chelsea, meanwhile, have slipped into the relegation zone with just four points from six games.