FC Samartex climbed to second place in the Ghana Premier League standings after edging Bibiani Gold Stars in a hard-fought Western derby on Sunday.

The Timber Giants extended their winning run at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena to three matches, with Christian Agyenim Boateng’s 25th-minute strike proving decisive.

Nana Kweku Agyemang’s side started with greater purpose and were rewarded when Boateng broke the deadlock midway through the first half.

Gold Stars returned from the break with more urgency and pushed for an equaliser, but Samartex stood firm to protect their slender advantage and secure all three points.

The defeat means the Miners are still without a win in their last three visits to Samreboi. Petros Koukouras’ side also missed the chance to build on their 2-1 victory over Heart of Lions last weekend, as their inconsistent form continued.

Samartex are now level on 18 points with league leaders Medeama SC and will look to maintain the pressure at the top when they travel to face Bechem United.

Gold Stars, meanwhile, will aim to respond when they return to Dun’s Park to host Aduana FC in another difficult test.