Niger, Delta win, Grasshoppers flop in handball league

Niger United of Minna defeated Tojemarine Academy of Lagos 23-17 at the Ardova Handball Premier League in Benin on Tuesday.

The game started at a fast pace, with both teams trying to undo each other.

However, the Minna team seized the initiative midway into the first half. United made use of their scoring chances, while Tojemarine lost theirs and were also undone by their opponents’ strong defending.

In the women’s category, Benue Queens lost to Delta Queens 31-24, Defender Babes beat Bayelsa Queens 29-22 while Plateau Peacocks hammered Imo Grasshoppers 34-17.

Technical Director of the Handball Federation of Nigeria, Bala Mohammed, said the first phase of the league lived up to expectations, with several upsets recorded.

He said, “The first phase of the league has been very interesting with shocking results and I must commend the players for their beautiful displays. It shows that the league is improving and we must commend our sponsors for making it possible to compete at a high level.”

The first phase of the league ends on Wednesday (today) with the second phase slated for Lagos later this year.