Okoro Adaobi, wearing jersey number 14 for Defenders Babes, was named the best player of the match following her team’s 37-28 victory against Lagos Seasiders on Thursday evening at the Ardova Handball Premier League, Phase II.
Expressing her gratitude and happiness in a post-match interview, Adaobi shared that she wasn’t expecting to be recognized, especially given her injury from the previous day’s match.
Despite limping during the first half, her determination to put in her best performance was evident in the second half, which was crucial for her team’s success. I feel grateful. I’m so happy. I wasn’t even expecting it. Even today, I have a serious injury because of the match we played yesterday.
But I didn’t even know that I would perform today, honestly speaking. If you watched the first half, I was limping. But when the second half came, I was like, no, I have to put in my best. Because if I didn’t put in my best, my team would lose this match. And if we lose, we will drop to third position because we are second on the table. And we didn’t want that to happen,” She told Sports247.
Reflecting on the tournament, Adaobi described the experience as enjoyable and rewarding. As the team stands second on the table with two matches left, they are aiming to win both games to maintain or possibly improve their standing. Last year, Defenders Babes finished second, and Adaobi is comfortable with the prospect of securing the same position again this year, though the team hopes to clinch the top spot.
Adaobi’s determination and resilience were key in her performance, especially given her injury. Her contributions were vital in securing the win for Defenders Babes and maintaining their position in the league standings.
