Asante Kotoko defeated Berekum Chelsea 2-0 in midweek to continue with their winning ways in the Ghana Premier League.
A goal in each half by Ofosu Micky and Kofi Nti-Boakye was enough to secure the victory for the champions who are back in continental action at the weekend.
Kotoko opened the scoring after just six minutes with Seidu Bancey laying off the telling pass for the on-rushing Micky to smash home the first goal.
It got worse for Chelsea as Rashid Abdul was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 49th minute.
Kotoko made most of the numerical advantage by doubling their lead nine minutes later through a spectacular finish by Kofi Nti-Boakye from 20-yards out.
The Porcupine Warrios were very impressive as they kept control of the game but could have done better with their conversion rate as several chances were spurned.
Paramount amongst the missed chances was a Richard Mpong’s sitter in the 79th minute but an attempted lob just seven yards out went straight into the arms of the Berekum Chelsea goalkeeper.
Meanwhile Rashid Sumaila was keeping things tight at the other end as strikers Latif Salifu and Eric Bekoe had no joy after being tossed in in the second half by coach Hans Van der Pluijm.
Chelsea however got some chances late on but over elaboration on the part of Latif Salifu saw the Kotoko defence recover after the ex Liberty Professionals player slipped in momentarily.
Amos Frimpong could have also fetched Kotoko the third oal as his power driver hit the upright to fall in front of Ben Adama who was in an offside position.
The champions saw out a late striking surge by the Blues to secure the three precious points with their CAF Champions League return encounter against to JSM Bejaia fast approaching.
