Hearts of Oak secured a valuable home victory over former champions FC Samartex 1996 at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, with an early strike from the sharp and industrious Hamza Issa proving decisive.
The Phobians approached the match with a balanced run of form, two wins, two draws, and a defeat in their previous five league outings. Samartex, however, continued to endure difficulties on the road, still hunting for their first away victory this season after five draws and four losses.
The breakthrough arrived inside the opening five minutes when Hamza Issa reacted swiftly inside the penalty area to steer the ball home for the host.
Despite both sides fashioning chances throughout the half, Hearts maintained their slender advantage into the break.
After halftime, Coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani introduced fresh legs in a tactical reshuffle, Frank Duku, Mohammed Hussein, and Henry Boateng replacing George Paaku, Mawuli Wayo, and Martin Karikari to sustain control and balance.
Samartex applied late pressure in search of an equaliser, yet Hearts of Oak remained organised and defensively composed, protecting their lead resolutely until full-time.
The result marks Hearts of Oak’s second victory over the Timber Giants since the latter joined Ghana’s top tier, a win that strengthens their progress and lifts the spirits of their passionate Rainbow faithful.