Asante Kotoko got back to winning ways after their blip in the previous week as they defeated Liberty Professionals 1-0 in Kumasi on Saturday.

The win keeps the reigning champions at the summit as they open a five-point lead ahead of AshantiGold and rivals Hearts of Oak who do not play until Sunday.

Midfielder Michael Akuffu scored the crucial match winner when he powered in a shot in the first half.

Kotoko will be hoping their return to winning ways stays the same as the face some tough fixtures before the first round ends next month.