A 51st-minute strike by Fredrick Akatuk was enough to seal a 1-0 win for Legon Cities over Bibiani Gold Stars at the University of Ghana Stadium yesterday.

The victory, which marked back-to-back wins for the Royals, lifted them out of the relegation zone and dealt a blow to Gold Stars’ title ambitions.

With relegation looming, Legon Cities approached the game with intent and energy. Under the guidance of Coach Yaw Acheampong, the home side looked to build on their recent triumph, determined to halt the charge of league leaders Gold Stars.

Cities started strongly, controlling the early stages and probing for openings, but Gold Stars’ well-organised defence held firm.

Despite dominating possession, the hosts struggled to break down their opponents in a tight first half.

Gold Stars, uncharacteristically subdued, were unable to impose their usual attacking rhythm, opting instead to focus on thwarting Cities’ advances while waiting for counter-attacking opportunities.

Akatuk's opener

The second half began with renewed urgency from Legon Cities, and their efforts were quickly rewarded. Former Asante Kotoko captain Emmanuel Gyamfi dazzled with a brilliant piece of wing play, beating two defenders before delivering a dangerous cross into the box.

Striker William Adjei’s initial shot was parried by Gold Stars goalkeeper Emmanuel Kobi, but Akatuk was on hand to bury the rebound and give the Royals a deserved lead.

The goal spurred both teams into action. Cities almost doubled their lead moments later when a sharp passing move freed Adjei in the box, but Kobi produced another fine save to deny him.

Gold Stars responded by making three substitutions in the 55th minute, aiming to turn the tide. Their changes nearly paid off when substitute Michael Osei delivered a pinpoint cross to Godfred Kyei in the 63rd minute, but Kyei’s header sailed agonisingly wide.

Cities continued to push for a second goal, with Mohammed Alidu testing Kobi from distance. The goalkeeper’s full-stretch save kept his side in the contest, while Osei’s lively performance for Gold Stars provided a constant threat down the left flank.

Late drama

The match reached a fever pitch as Gold Stars missed another golden opportunity in the 65th minute. Osei’s perfectly weighted cross found Michael Nkoah unmarked in the box, but the striker’s header went wide, leaving the away fans in disbelief.

Legon Cities, resolute in defence, withstood a late onslaught from the visitors. The 82nd minute saw a brief scare when Cities goalkeeper Aziz clashed heads with substitute Bright Boakye Kyereh while contesting a dangerous cross. Both players received medical attention but managed to continue.

Substitute Osei continued to test Cities’ defence, unleashing a long-range shot in the 88th minute, but it flew harmlessly over the bar.

Coach Acheampong’s tactical setup proved decisive, with Legon Cities balancing defensive solidity and attacking intent. Gyamfi’s creativity on the flank and Akatuk’s clinical finishing underscored the team’s resurgence, while their backline, marshalled effectively, absorbed Gold Stars’ late pressure.

Gold Stars, despite flashes of brilliance, lacked their usual cohesion in the final third. Their failure to convert key chances ultimately cost them the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table.