In an electrifying curtain-raiser to the much-anticipated Oldies Football League, Kojo Oku New Bubuashie emerged victorious with a convincing 3-1 triumph over Tuba Metro Stars in a tightly contested match at the Tuba Astro Turf.
The early morning air was charged with excitement as the two seasoned teams, boasting former local football legends and community stalwarts, lined up for what promised to be an exhilarating battle of skills and resilience. Fans from New Bubuashie, Tuba, and neighboring towns flocked to the venue, filling the stands with a sea of colorful jerseys, drums, and vuvuzelas.
From the first whistle, it was clear that neither team had lost the competitive edge that marked their younger days. Tuba Metro Stars began the match on the front foot, pressing high and putting Kojo Oku’s defense under considerable pressure. Their efforts paid off in the 15th minute when a well-placed header by veteran striker Abdul Karim found the back of the net, giving Tuba an early 1-0 lead.
However, Kojo Oku New Bubuashie was not to be outdone. Rallying their forces, they found their rhythm, with midfield maestro Kwame Yeboah orchestrating brilliant plays that tested the resolve of the Tuba defense. The equalizer came in the 28th minute when a pinpoint cross from right-winger Samuel Mensah met the foot of forward Emmanuel Owusu, who slotted it past Tuba’s goalkeeper with clinical precision.
The game became a fierce battle of tactics and stamina, with both teams showcasing flashes of brilliance reminiscent of their prime. Just before halftime, Kojo Oku capitalized on a defensive lapse by Tuba. Yeboah, ever the playmaker, intercepted a loose ball and delivered a perfectly timed through pass to Owusu, who deftly chipped it over the advancing goalkeeper to make it 2-1.
The second half began with renewed intensity. Tuba Metro Stars, determined to level the score, made several attacking forays, but their finishing lacked the needed sharpness. Kojo Oku’s defense, led by the seasoned center-back duo of Joseph Amankwah and Stephen Adjei, held firm, repelling attack after attack.
The decisive moment came in the 75th minute. A quick counterattack by Kojo Oku saw Mensah sprint down the right flank before sending a low cross into the box. Substitute striker Kofi Asare met the ball with a powerful shot that ricocheted off the post and into the net, sealing the match at 3-1.
As the final whistle blew, the Kojo Oku supporters erupted in cheers, celebrating their team’s well-earned victory. The match not only set the tone for the upcoming Oldies League but also showcased the enduring passion and skill that these football veterans still possess.
With teams like Kakraba Oldies, Kasoa Oldies, SCC Oldies, and Nyanyanu Oldies set to join the fray, fans can expect a season filled with nostalgia, fierce competition, and stories of legendary performances.
