Basake Holy Stars coach Abdulai Gazale has rued his side’s poor attacking performance after their 1-0 defeat to Hearts of Oak in Friday’s Ghana Premier League Matchday 8 encounter.

Martin Karikari scored an 82nd-minute winner at the University of Ghana Stadium to hand the Phobians their third consecutive victory and send them temporarily top of the league table.

Gazale admitted his team failed to make the most of their opportunities, particularly in the first half, when they struggled to threaten consistently in the attacking third.

“I think we didn't play well in terms of our attack, especially in the first half. We had so many chances to take the lead. Unfortunately, my team were not looking positive in the attacking third,” he said.

The Holy Stars coach was more satisfied with his side’s defensive organisation, explaining that they attempted to contain Hearts before launching counter-attacks.

“In terms of defence, we did well. We went on to sit in a medium block and see how best we could get the ball and go on a counter-attack,” he added.

However, Karikari’s late strike proved decisive, leaving Holy Stars empty-handed despite their defensive efforts for much of the contest.

The defeat was also their fourth away loss of the campaign, extending their wait for a point on the road.

Hearts, meanwhile, moved to 17 points, three ahead of Medeama and Samartex, who have a game in hand.