Asante Kotoko and Medeama SC played out a 1-1 draw in their Ghana Premier League Matchday Nine encounter at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, with Kotoko coach Diogo Peral sent off in Kumasi.

Medeama arrived in Kumasi looking to strengthen their hold on first place after bouncing back from their first defeat of the campaign with a 1-0 victory over Aduana FC.

Kotoko, meanwhile, were seeking a response after drawing 1-1 with FC Ashanti Gold ’04 at the Len Clay Stadium the previous weekend.

The visitors took the lead through Usman Safianu in the 42nd minute before Kotoko captain Musah Hamzata headed home an equaliser shortly after the break.

The result means Medeama remain top of the league table with 18 points, while Kotoko move to 13 points but drop to ninth position.

Medeama came close to restoring their advantage in the 81st minute, but Kotoko goalkeeper Aziz Dari Haruna produced a save to deny the visitors and keep his side on level terms.

The match also produced a major disciplinary incident involving Kotoko coach Peral, who was shown a red card after punching Medeama left-back Eben Adade.

Neither side could find a decisive goal, leaving the points shared at Baba Yara.

The draw keeps Medeama at the top of the standings on 18 points, while Kotoko are ninth with 13 points as they continue their search for consistency.

Kotoko will now turn their attention to their next league fixture against Berekum Chelsea, while Medeama prepare to face Swedru All Blacks.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

GPL SCORES @ A GLANCE

Vision 0-0 Port City

Aduana 2-0 Chelsea

Kotoko 1-1 Medeama

Lions 2-1 Bechem Utd

Debibi Utd 1-0 Hearts

Holy Stars 0-1 Dreams

Samartex 1-0 Goldstars

All Blacks 1-2 Ashanti Gold

Young Apostles 0-0 Karela