By Dom Agbakpe,

Hearts of Oak opened the 2019/2020 Ghana Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 loss to Berekum Chelsea at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The Phobians started the game with intent and purpose in the opening minutes but it was the Blues who had the first real chance of the game on the 11th minute from Iddrissu Cato but his13-yards feeble strike flew past the post.

Striker, Joseph Esso forced goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim into a save a minute after with a toe-poke shot.

Hearts of Oak had a penalty shout turned down by referee George Wormagah after Joseph Esso was brought down in Chelsea’s box.

On 34th minute, Attuquaye Jonah broke the virginity of the game with a deflected effort on the edge of the box to give Berekum Chelsea the lead.

Kofi Owusu had the ball in the net for Berekum Chelsea on the stroke of halftime with a fine header but it was ruled out for offside by the assistant referee.

After recess, Homers looked a different side as they mounted hefty pressure on the visitors in search of leveller.

Kofi Kordzi almost put parity Hearts of Oak on 82 minute but his deflected shot hit the crossbar.

Hearts of Oak kept pushing and probing for a goal but Berekum Chelsea stood resolute in defence as the referee blew his whistle to bring the game to an end. 

Next up for Hearts of Oak is an away tie vs Medeama SC while Berekum Chelsea tackle Liberty Professionals at the Golden City Park.