Current holders of the MTN FA cup Accra Hearts of Oak took on Elmina Sharks at the Accra Sports Stadium in a late kick off after the Black Maidens secured their qualification to the Women’s U-17 world cup.
It was a dicey game that Accra Hearts of Oak needed to win at all cost following their gap difference with the current GPL top spot team Kumasi Asante Kotoko.
Accra Sports Stadium that has remained a fortress for the Phobians saw another world class game from both teams on the night.
Isaac Obeng who has been wasteful in front of goal on many occasions could not miss his glorious opportunity when UCL winner Sulley Ali Muntari lofted a well calculated pass to his to give Accra Hearts of Oak the opener against Sharks.
The visitors who seems ready for action fought back stronger and equalized. It was game on and the desire to win seemed to be fading from both sides until Accra Hearts of Oak shot-stopper Richmond Ayi sloppily allowed a loss ball from Ishmael Antwi escape him into the back of his net.
With fans chanting and the opposition waiting for the whistle for the end of proceedings, Accra Hearts of Oak were awarded a penalty after Patrick Razak was brought down in the 18yard box which was converted expertly to bring both teams on parity.
The normal regulations time ended with both sides scoring 2 goals apiece.
It went straight to penalty kick, the part of football where most players wish world never happen.
With a game in hand that had already thrilled fans, no one could imagine Richmond Ayi was about to redeem himself in such spectacular fashion.
After the first three penalty kicks, everyone would have concluded Accra Hearts of Oak is out if the MTN FA Cup until Richmond Ayi pulled four saves to ensure the current champions remain in the race for glory.
Shuaeeb Is a seasoned sportswriter, social worker, and philanthropist. He has been renowned for his support of disabled sports persons and championing for equal rights and opportunities for all sports persons. He is also a father of 4 children and married to His partner Moana who is of Australian descent. He currently does sports volunteering and disability support work aside from writing for this August media.
