_… Safety Babes Grind Out Win Vs Defender Babes to Remain Tops _
The concluding phase of the Ardova Premier Handball League, which got underway at two separate venues on Tuesday, in Lagos has already thrown up some shocking results.
Defending champions, Kano Pillars who trailed table toppers, Niger United of Minna by as many as five (5) points after phase one in Benin City; and were in Lagos to narrow the gap and possibly retain their title; fell further behind by losing 23-27 to Rima Strikers of Sokoto, on the opening day.
With as many as twenty-two (22) teams, taking part in both the men’s and women’s championships; the games are holding simultaneously at Rowe Park, in Yaba; as well as the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute for a sports, inside the National Stadium, in Surulere, Lagos.
Niger United capitalize on the slip-up by Pillars, and defeated the Correctional Boys of Abuja 30-22, to extend their lead on the top of the summit, going into Day-2; while the NSCDC De Defenders of Abuja lost 18-24 to Confluence Stars of Lokoja in the first match of Day-1.
Elsewhere, Lagos Seasiders outscored Benue Buffaloes of Makurdi 31–24; Bendel Dynamos of Benin fell 23-25 to Police Machine; before the youngsters of Tojemarine Academy shocked FRSC Safety Shooters of Abuja 28- 25 in the game of the day, and the day’s final match.
In the women’s category, Rima Queens of Sokoto emulated their men’s team, when trouncing Bayelsa Queens 30-21; while Benue Queens of Makurdi inflicted a 19-18 victory over Delta Queens of Asaba to set the tone from their possible escape from the drop zone.
Another game decided by just one point, was the encounter between Seasider Babes of Lagos, who edged Bendel Dynamos of Benin 25-24 in a fiercely fought encounter.
The opening day showstoppers saw FRSC Safety Babes edge NSCDC Defender Babes 27-26 in an Abuja derby, which can as well pass for the championship decider, especially should Rima Queens fail to keep up the chase, on the heels of the perennial Champions; while former African champions, Imo Grasshoppers of Owerri stuttered to another indifferent 22-22 draw with Plateau Peacocks of Jos.
