A second half penalty converted by Fabio Gama ensured maximum points for Asante Kotoko who beat Karela United 2-1 in a match-day 30 encounter played at the Obuasi Len Clay Sports Stadium.

The win ensured Kotoko went to the top of the league temporarily ahead of their arch-rivals Accra Hearts of Oak yet to feature in their week 30 encounter against Legon Cities on Thursday.

Kotoko as expected started the game on the front foot with Emmanuel Gyamfi putting the ball into the net in the 10th minute but the assistant referee flagged for offside.

Kotoko was eager for the opener and deservedly scored the opener through Emmanuel Gyamfi in the 21st minute after he calmly slotted past Karela United goalkeeper following a deep run from midfield.

The Porcupine Warriors were certainly in the mood for more goals as they continued to press the Karela United defence.

Kotoko held onto their solitary lead as the game went to recess.

Kotoko started the second half with the same tenacity as they did in the first half as they searched for the cushion goal.

Karela United restored parity in the 58th minute through Richard Berko who struck home from close range to despair of the Kotoko bench.

Kotoko was stunned by the equalizer from the away side but increase the pressure in the final third as they searched for the lead once again.

Kotoko was awarded a penalty with a quarter of the game left as Fabio Gama stepped up and struck the ball home from 12 yards to give Kotoko the much-desired lead.

Kotoko held on to secure all three points going into their crucial Super Clash encounter against Hearts on Sunday.