Ghana Premier League newcomers Accra Lions FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Elmina Sharks FC in the opening fixture of the 2021-22 campaign on Friday night.
The hosts scored 7 minutes from full-time to pick a point in the premiership at the Accra Sports Stadium.
German tactician Andreas Rainer Kraft handed debut starts to Rich Sackey and Abass Samari Salifu who was sunstituted in the 24th minute after suffering an injury.
Star striker Rauf Salifu was also given a starting place alongside Oliver Amedor, Frederick Asante and Abdul Fatawu Hamidu.
Talented Frederick Akatuk came on in the second half to play his debut game for the home side.
Ex- Ghana International Nii Odartey Lamptey on the other hand, named new signings Emmanuel Adjetey, Michelle Sarpong, Dominic Eshun, Ebenezer Adu-Kwaw and Enock Agblenyo in his starting lineup.
Joseph Essam was preferred in the Sharks’ posts Lord Bawa Martey whereas experienced midfielder Daniel Nii Adjei also started.
Lions started the game on a very good note but failed to hit the back of the despite creating numerous chances.
Elmina Sharks picked the lead in the 64th minute through Mitchel Sarpong.
The hosts drew level in the 82nd minute after talisman Salifu scored Lions’ first ever goal in the Ghanaian top-flight.
Salifu netted 21 goals in the Division One League last season to propel Lions to earn promotion.
Meanwhile, Sharks captain and central defender Ishmael Hammond was named man of the match after an outstanding display.
