Defending Champions, Niger United and Safety Babes started their title defence on a winning note on Monday at the 2024 Ardova Handball Premier League in Benin, Edo State.
United defeated Benue Buffaloes 33-28 in the opening game. Niger United coach, Adebayo Yekini, was on his feet throughout, directing affairs from the sideline.
Despite losing four players to other teams in preseason, United gave a good account of themselves, making use of the chances they had and defending spiritedly to ward off Buffaloes attacks.
Coach Yekini said it was good for his team to start on winning note, stating the team would take the games one after another.
He said, “It is good to start on a winning note. It was a close game but we came up with tactics to win the game. We will work hard to continue this way and win more games to have a chance of lifting the trophy again.
“I am sure other teams are here to also win the title but we are up to the task,” he added.
In other games in the male category, Tojemarine Academy defeated Adamawa Warriors 47-33, Correction Boys lost to Kano Pillars 17 -18, while Safety Shooters beat Sunshine Kings 27-12.
In the female category, COAS Babes lost Safety Babes 18-31, Defender Babes fell to Imo Grasshoppers 27-29, Rima Queens and Rivers Queens game end 29-29, Seasiders Babes defeated Bendel Dynamos 34-19, while Delta Queens lost to Plateau Peacocks 26-30.
