Both defending champions of the 2023 Ardova Handball Premier League, Kano Pillars (men) and FRSC Safety Babes of Abuja (women) commenced the defense of the titles they won last year, with comfortable victories, on Day-1 of phase one of championships, holding at the indoor sports hall, of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, in Benin City.
Kano Pillars who are gunning for their 3rd premier league title in a row, defeated Rima Strikers of Sokoto 30-23; while Safety Babes were just too strong for Benue Queens who got trounced 42-24.
In other games decided in the women’s category, newly promoted Delta Force of Asaba showed tenacity and grit by handing former African Champions, Imo Grasshoppers a shock 25-20 defeat; while Seasider Babes of Lagos lost 25-29 to an enterprising NSCDC Defender Babes of Abuja.
Meanwhile Rima Queens of Sokoto, humbled promoted Bayelsa Queens 32-24 victory; while a last-ditch goal, gave Plateau Peacocks of Jos a 23-22 victory over Bendel Dynamos who had vociferous home support, for the duration of the matche.
In other men’s matches decided, former champions Niger United of Minna had to dig deep before defeating Confluence Stars of Lokoja 28-23; while Tojemarine won the Lagos derby against Seasider Kings 29-23.
Host team, Bendel Dynamos defeated Police Machine 24-23 in another closely fought encounter; former Champions, FRSC Safety Shooters thumped Benue Buffaloes of Makurdi 38-20; while the NSCDC De Defenders won the Abuja derby against Correction Boys 31-27.
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