Match Report: Kotoko held by Krystal Palace in pre-season friendly

Kumasi Asante Kotoko were held to a 2-2 draw by lower-tier side Akosombo Krystal Palace in their second pre-season game at the team’s training camp in Koforidua.

Midfielder Kwame Adom Frimpong and striker Naby Keita scored for the Reds to lead 2-0 before their opponent equalised.

Coach Maxwell Konadu opted for consistency by fielding Emmanuel Keyekeh, Adom Frimpong, Emmanuel Gyamfi and Augustine Okrah in midfield behind strikers, Naby Keita and new arrival Evans Adomako Wiredu.

Kotoko opened the scoring in the 5th minute when Imoro Ibrahim produced a great kick from the corner spot which found Kwame Adom Frimpong who headed home from the six-yard box.

Guinean-import Naby Keita made it 2-0 on the 27th minute when he beautifully scored from the spot, sending the Palace’s goalkeeper the wrong way.

With 15 minutes to end the first half, Krystal Palace reduced the deficit when Emmanuel Keyekeh’s pass inside the centre circle was intercepted by a Krystal Palace player which thwarted Kotoko’s attack.

A Krystal Palace attacker spotted goalkeeper Kwame Baah off his line and quickly produced a long lobby cross into the yawning net beyond the reach of stretching Baah.

The half ended 2-1!

After recess, Kotoko improved their game but could not find the back of the net.

Kotoko came close scoring in the 86th minute but a great free-kick from Godfred Asiamah close to the corner flank was saved by the goalkeeper.

However, Krystal Palace snatched the equaliser late in injury time to secure a 2-2 draw.

The Porcupine Warriors thrashed Division Two side Odweanoma FC 3-0 in their first pre-season game.

Kotoko Line-up:

Kwame Bash(GK) – Christopher Nettey, Ibrahim Imoro, Ishmael Ganiyu, Mubarik Yusif, Emmanuel Keyekeh, Kwame Adom Frimpong, Emmanuel Gyamfi, Augustine Okrah, Naby Keita, Evans Adomako Wiredu