Match Report: Hearts of Oak held by Karela United to goalless draw

• The Rainbows lost the grounds to finish in the top four before the World Cup break.

Hearts of Oak were held to a 0-0 draw by 7th-placed, Karela United on Sunday in the BetPawa Premier League week six, losing the grounds to finish in the top four before the World Cup break.

Slavko Matić who made two changes to his line-up today saw his side eventually find their rhythm but they failed to register a goal to claim their third win to celebrate their 111th anniversary.

It proved to be a frustrating afternoon for the Phobians, who were unable to make the breakthrough despite dominating possession.

The Rainbows had beautiful counterattack in the first period with Salifu lobing a pass to Isaac Mensah but his shot was narrowly missed.

However, the visitors also came in with strong effort, thanks to Richmond Ayi who stepped up to save one-on-one shot after a through pass was sent to striker Evans Adomako Mensah.

In the second half, Hearts of Oak kept their rhythm and a winning goal could have arrived in the 78th minute but Karela captain, Kwadwo Addai made a timely clearance to save his team.

It was a game that saw the defenders of the visitors keeping their eyes on Black Stars forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh who inspired the Rainbows to victory last weekend over Kotoku Royals.

Slavko Matić’s men will also feel they should have been awarded a penalty with referee Yakubu Hassim giving Karela another relief as he ignored what looks like a penalty.

The result means Hearts of Oak moves tenth in the Premier league table, eight place above their rivals, Asante Kotoko towards the World Cup break.