Asante Kotoko returned to winning ways with a deserved 2-1 victory over Young Apostles at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday, thanks to a dominant second-half display in their Week 7 Ghana Premier League clash.

The Porcupine Warriors controlled much of the opening half and created the better opportunities but were unable to convert their dominance into goals before the break.

Kotoko eventually found the breakthrough in the 70th minute through Hubert Gyau after a well-worked attacking move. Patrick Asiedu burst down the left flank before delivering a perfectly weighted cut-back for Gyau, who calmly slotted home to hand the hosts the lead.

The goal lifted Kotoko’s confidence, and they doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute. Emmanuel Sanja produced another excellent run before picking out Cameroonian forward Solomon Nsor Asaah, who finished clinically to make it 2-0.

Young Apostles responded late in the contest as Huziaf Iddrisu curled a direct free-kick into the net to reduce the deficit, but the visitors could not find an equaliser as Kotoko held firm to secure all three points.

The victory moves the Porcupine Warriors up to sixth place in the Ghana Premier League standings and provides a timely boost as they look to build momentum after ending their recent winless spell.

Young Apostles, meanwhile, remain in the relegation zone following another disappointing result and will be desperate to respond in their next outing.

Kotoko will now shift their focus to their upcoming fixture against FC AshantiGold 04, while Young Apostles prepare to host Swedru All Blacks in their next league assignment.