Hearts of Oak produced a fine performance to claim their first win of the league campaign, beating Dwarfs 2-0 in Cape Coast. Here are three things we learned plus two fans' opinion.

Dwarfs complacent

On paper, Dwarfs were favourites to win, taking into consideration their impressive displays in the first two games - they beat Berekum Chelsea and held Wa All Stars to a goalless stalemate away. So they headed into this game without defeat and had not conceded, however, they've been halted. The Crabs did not make their dominant possession count as poor decisions in final third cost them. 

Henry Wellington saves his job - for now

The former Kotoko trainer had come under severe criticism after failing to pick maximum points in back-to-back games. The dismal showing in those two ties prompted calls for his immediate sacking, and with pressure mounting from all quarters, Wellington had to react. And he has. He made six changes to the starting lineup that lost 3-1 to AshantiGold. His changes yielded dividends as four of them  - fullback Christopher Boney, midfielder Aminu Alhassan, center-back Robert Addo and goalkeeper Ben Mensah -  contributing greatly to the team's success. 

Man of the Match Malik Akowuah owes his domineering display in the middle to the presence of Alhassan. Mensah came to the team's rescue when they needed him, Boney starred at right back and also excelled when he moved to left-back while Addo defended resolutely. Wellington admitted that his tactics were spot on before responding to calls for his sacking. 

''Not everybody likes you but I am focused. Those criticising didn't give me the work, if those who appointed says I should go, I will.'' 

Joseph Esso early form impressive

The departure of top scorer Thomas Abbey was not well received by the fans but his replacement, Joseph Esso, is showing promise so far. Bought from Ebusua Dwarfs, Esso has made a bright start and is fast becoming a fan favourite. He has netted two strikes in consecutive games and it looks increasingly possible that he would reach 15 goals if the services keep coming. 

Fan Opinion

Kwame Akutu: Patrick Razak is phenomenal. Hearts decision not allow him to leave for a mega-deal abroad was appropriate. Horoya of Guinea were interested in signing him for $80,000. He came on and took this game by the scruff of the neck and won it for Hearts. Next big thing from Ghana football to the world, watch!

Abrantiebiba Bra Que: I loved the second half of the game by the Phobians. Particularly impressed with the second goal which was well-worked with Esso getting the final touch. Great performance all round.

WATCH HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MATCH

Missed the game? Worry not. Here's a bitesize highlight of our 2-0 win over Dwarfs. [Hats off to @startimesghana] #AHOSC pic.twitter.com/nFFZL6k4f5

— Phobians (@HeartsOfOakGH) March 29, 2018

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