by Dom Agbakpe

Hearts of Oak failed to record their first win of the season as they were held 0-0 draw by Table-toppers Karela United.

The 2020/2021 Ghana Premier League Match Week 4 encounter took place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday night.

Assistant coach, Asare Bediako was in the dugout for the Phobians.

He made four changes in the starting lineup. Robert Addo replaced Nuru Sulley who is suffering from a thigh strain.

Michelle Sarpong came in for injured Emmanuel Nettey. Dominic Eshun was handed his first start as he replaced Kwadwo Obeng Jnr.

Frederick Ansah Botchway made a return after missing last game.

New gaffer Kosta Papic watched his side from the stands for the second time.

The Serbian was in attendance last week as the Phobians lost by a narrow margin to Inter Allies.

The 60 year-old led them to their last title in 2009.

Karela United FC started the game brightly with tempo, urgency and purpose trying to find the opener but the Phobian defence held firm.

Hearts of Oak had little possession and barely created chances in the half half.

There were penalty appeals from both sides but referee Gabriel Opoku Arhin had none of that.

Hearts of Oak looked much better and improved side after recess. Midfielder Michelle Sarpong had his shot rattled the Woodward after a wonderful work by winger Patrick Razak.

Also, substitute Kojo Obeng jnr and Patrick Razak also had glaring chances but failed to put them away

The visitors had little ball and opportunities in the second half.

Three players were booked; Karela United duo, Franklin Osei and Nurudeen Abdullai and Dominic Eshun of Hearts of Oak.

Hearts of Oak will remain in the capital as they host Dreams FC at the Accra Sports Stadium while Karela United FC return home to take on King Faisal at the Crosby Awuah Memorial (CAM) park.

Match Week 5 comes off from Friday 11, Sunday 14, Dec, 2020.