Today In History: Heart of Lions edge Kotoko to win SWAG Cup

On 7th August, 2009, Kpando Heart of Lions on Sunday beat Fabulous Kumasi Asante Kotoko 2-0 in their second leg encounter to lift the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) annual Cup match at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

The event which has been sponsored over the year's by State Insurance (SIC) Sponsored and termed the H. P. Nyametei/SWAG Cup saw the Porcupine Warriors winning the first leg 1-0 at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium courtesy Louis Agyeman.

Lions who were determined to win the trophy for the first time put up an impressive start when import Togoless female Referee Amegee Aissata whistled for hostilities to begin the match which was not largely patronized by the large following of sports enthusiasts. Nana Osei Bonsu who represented the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and flanked by some executive members of the SWAG performed the ceremonial kick off befitting a memorial event in honour of the Sports Administrator who was once a top SIC Executive officer.

After making series of forays into the vital area of Kotoko and squandering numerous chances that came their way, Lions took the lead in the 39th minute through Mohammed Tanko whose close header from Abraham Annan's in-swinger beat Isaac Amoako in goal for Kotoko against a run of play.

Kotoko who exhibited an unimpressive performance in front of their fans from the onset only came into the picture in the 36h minute but Louis Agyeman only manager to foil the attempt at goal when instead of shooting into the net he decided to push the ball to Francis Coffie who was already on an offside position.

A crest-fallen Kotoko later brought on Ofosu Appiah and Stephen Oduro for Godfred Yeboah and Kwabena Yaro respectively mid-way in the second half to strengthen their attack but this slightly benefited them but failed to yield any positive results as the determined Lions team continued to dominate the game.

The visitors improved on their game and ensured they won the match when they hit the net in the 88th minute through substitute Bright Nsiah to seal the doom of Kotoko thus sending their supporters home with angry faces.