By Chinedum Ohanusi
The Ardova Sponsored, Nigeria Handball Premier League produced more eye-catching results on Day 3 of the first phase of the championships, being staged in Benin City.
In the women’s category, Rivers Queens lost 23-33 to Rima Queens of Sokoto; Imo Grasshoppers came from 10-15 at the break, to edged Ekiti Queens 29–27; same as Plateau Peacocks of Jos who rallied from 11-12 at half time, but went on to beat Omo Ogiefo Academy of Benin 26–21.
In the men’s championship, Niger United of Minna outscored Benue Buffaloes of Makurdi 21–17 , while FRSC Safety Shooters underlined their intent to win back the coverted title, by bossing the Abuja derby against De NSCDC Defenders 38–27.
Osun United of Osogbo fell badly 13-35 to Army team COAS Shooters of Abuja 13–25; while defending champions Tojemarine Academy of Lagos, were unconvincing in their 29-27 victory over Adamawa Warriors.
The youngsters from Lagos, who took last year’s league by storm, trailed 12-16 at the interval, and appeared to be suffering the effect of Wednesday’s shock loss, in the hands of COAS Shooters, before they turned it around.
Meanwhile, Rima Strikers of Sokoto, was another side in fine form, as the team from the Caliphate handed a depleted Lagos Seasiders team (which led 16-14 at halftime), a crushing 32–17 defeat.
Matches will continue today (Friday), with more games to be decided in both categories, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, in Benin.
