The 2025 Ardova Handball Premier League Phase 2 delivered its most electrifying moment yet on Thursday as Lagos Seasiders stunned defending champions Tojemarine Academy with a dramatic 23–22 last-second victory in a heated Lagos derby at Rowe Park, Yaba.
The encounter, billed as the headline clash of Day 3, lived up to the hype from start to finish. Tojemarine, winners of the previous edition, dominated large spells and looked on course for another derby triumph.
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But Seasiders refused to bow, forcing turnovers at crucial moments and showing incredible composure under pressure.
With the match tied in the dying seconds, a costly Tojemarine error gifted the Seasiders a fast break, which they buried emphatically, sparking wild celebrations across their bench and the stands.
The stunning win not only strengthens the Seasiders’ push in the title race but also hands Tojemarine their toughest defeat of the season.
COAS Shooters, Rima Strikers Shine in Men’s Category
Earlier in the men’s fixtures, COAS Shooters extended their fine form with a commanding 34–24 win over Correction Boys, pulling away after a narrow 15–13 halftime lead.
Benue Buffaloes survived a spirited second-half comeback from Osun United to secure a tight 23–22 victory, while Safety Shooters were awarded a walkover after Adamawa Warriors failed to honour the fixture.
Rima Strikers produced one of the day’s strongest comebacks, overturning an 11–14 halftime deficit to defeat Niger United 27–22, capping off a resilient second-half display.
Safety Babes Dig Deep as Title Charge Continues
In the women’s division, defending champions Safety Babes were pushed to their limits before grinding out a 32–29 win over Plateau Peacocks. Despite trailing 17–16 at halftime, the champions relied on their depth and experience to maintain their perfect run toward a possible historic five-peat.
Rima Queens also strengthened their title credentials after edging Omo Ogiefo Academy 28–26 in another comeback win, having trailed 13–14 at the break.
Imo Grasshoppers returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 34–32 triumph over Defender Babes, while Ekiti Queens sealed a gritty 28–26 victory over Rivers Queens in a tightly contested encounter.
Day 3 Results – Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 (27/11/25)
Female Category
Plateau Peacocks 29–32 Safety Babes (HT: 17–16)
Rima Queens 28–26 Omo Ogiefo Academy (HT: 13–14)
Imo Grasshoppers 34–32 Defender Babes (HT: 18–14)
Rivers Queens 26–28 Ekiti Queens (HT: 13–13)
Male Category
COAS Shooters 34–24 Correction Boys (HT: 15–13)
Benue Buffaloes 23–22 Osun United (HT: 13–08)
Safety Shooters 10–0 Adamawa Warriors (W/O)
Lagos Seasiders 23–22 Tojemarine Academy (HT: 12–10)
Rima Strikers 27–22 Niger United (HT: 11–14)
