After 30 rounds of matches in the Ghana Premier League, Kotoku Royals became the first team to be confirmed relegated while Aduana Stars failed to win at home leaving the title race open.
Meanwhile, Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak continued in their inconsistencies as Medeama SC climbed to second place.
Here are five talking points from the matches.
KOTOKU ROYALS RELEGATED
Kotoku Royals have been relegated from the Ghana Premier League after losing 2-0 to Great Olympics, making it impossible for them to escape the bottom of the table. The defeat mathematically confirms their demotion, leaving them 16 points below the safe spot with just four matches to go. The outcome is a disappointment for the Eastern region of Ghana, who had hoped to see more of their local clubs in the top flight after Power FC got relegated in 2007.
ADUANA STARS LEAVE RACE WIDE OPEN
Aduana Stars failed to beat Karela United in their home match after drawing goalless with Karela United on Monday, leaving the title race wide open. The draw has given hope to other contenders, including Medeama SC, who secured a vital win over Bechem United to reduce the points deficit to just two points. Aduana Stars remain at the top of the table with 52 points, followed by Medeama SC with 50 points, Bechem United with 48 points, and Berekum Chelsea with 46 points. Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko are still in contention with 45 and 44 points, respectively.
KOTOKO LOSING HOME DOMINANCE
Asante Kotoko drew 1-1 with Bibiani Gold Stars in their 15th home match of this season’s Ghana Premier League at the Baba Yara Stadium. It was the second consecutive home game where Kotoko failed to win after drawing their previous match against Tamale City. They aimed to keep their title hopes alive but were unable to secure a victory against Bibiani Gold Stars. The result meant that Kotoko failed to win in consecutive home games for the first time in the season which could partly explain the struggles of the Porcupines this season. They have just won two games in their last six home games.
KING FAISAL BACK IN DANGER ZONE
King Faisal’s situation deteriorates with each passing week. After their quick resurgence a few weeks ago following the appointment of Ignatius Osei Fosu. The Insha Allah boys may find themselves on the wrong side at the end of the season considering their recent dismal run. They were tenth not long ago, but are now second-to-last with four games remaining. King Faisal have already lost three of their past four games and might be letting down their guard as the season comes to a conclusion.
They could have time to gain momentum for the survival battle as they meet Nsoatreman in the FA Cup semifinals because they still have two important trips to Akoon Park and the Tamale Sports Stadium before the season ends.
VENUE SWITCH PAYING OFF FOR GREAT OLYMPICS
Great Olympics bounced back to winning ways with a convincing 2-0 victory which ended up relegating Kotoku Royals over the weekend. While it propelled Great Olympics out of the drop zone, it was their first back-to-back home win since November which could prove their choice of switching venues from the Accra Sports Stadium to the Sogakope Park as a good one. The Wonder Club may survive if they secure wins in their two remaining home games against Accra Lions and Nsoatreman FC.
They are now 14th but just a point away from the relegation zone with Dreams FC, Tamale City, and Karela United all fighting to survive.
