Kumasi Asante Kotoko have temporarily moved three points clear above arch-rivals Hearts of Oak after recording a 2-1 win over Karela United on Wednesday afternoon at the Obuasi Len Clay Stadium.

Fabio Gama’s neatly converted 68th-minute penalty proved the separating factor between the Porcupine Warriors and Karela United.

Kotoko took the lead through Emmanuel Gyamfi in the 21st minute but Taylor Diawisie’s 17th goal of the season  put the visitors back on level terms in the 61st minute.

However, their joy was cut short after Kotoko regained the lead after they were awarded a penalty following a clash between Evans Adomako and goalkeeper Richard Baidoo.

Fabio Gama converted the penalty expertly to give Kotoko all three crucial points.

Karela United have consequently dropped down by two places to fifth on the league standings.

The win by the Porcupine Warriors takes them three points clear of rivals Accra Hearts of Oak who play Legon Cities on Thursday evening and will reclaim the top spot if they win that encounter.

Kotoko will travel to Accra Sunday and are set for a big showdown with Hearts in what could decide the ultimate winner of the Ghana Premier League.