FC Samartex 1996 climbed to second place in the Ghana Premier League standings after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bibiani Gold Stars in a Western derby at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Sunday.
Christian Agyenim Boateng scored the decisive goal in the 25th minute to hand the Timber Giants all three points and extend their winning run at home to three consecutive matches.
Samartex, under the guidance of head coach Nana Kweku Agyemang, started the encounter with greater intensity and purpose, taking control of proceedings before Boateng found the back of the net midway through the first half.
The visitors returned from the break with renewed determination, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, Samartex remained defensively disciplined and organised to preserve their narrow advantage until the final whistle.
The defeat extends Gold Stars’ winless run in their last three visits to Samreboi, further highlighting their struggles against their regional rivals on the road.
Head coach Petros Koukouras and his men also missed the opportunity to build on their 2-1 victory over Heart of Lions last weekend, with the latest setback raising further questions about their consistency.
The victory moves Samartex to 18 points, level with league leaders Medeama SC, as the Timber Giants continue to apply pressure at the summit of the league table.
Samartex will now turn their attention to their next fixture against Bechem United, where they will seek to maintain their momentum and strengthen their position among the league’s leading contenders.
Gold Stars, meanwhile, will be hoping to bounce back when they welcome Aduana FC to Dun’s Park in what promises to be another challenging encounter.
