Former champions Safety Shooters reinforced their title credentials on Day 4 of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 1 with a commanding 37–22 victory over Correction Boys, extending their unbeaten run and tightening their grip atop the men’s league standings with 12 points.
The Abuja-based side came out with ruthless intent, storming to a 17–8 halftime lead before closing out the match in dominant fashion, sending a strong message to other contenders.
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In one of the most gripping encounters of the day, COAS Shooters pulled off a remarkable 27–24 comeback win over Adamawa Warriors, who had led 14–11 at halftime thanks to Friday Siapwa’s impressive 9-goal haul. The military side showed grit in the second half to turn the tide in their favour.
Defending champions Tojemarine HBC bounced back to winning ways with a 29–24 triumph over city rivals Lagos Seasiders, building on a slim 14–13 halftime edge. Christian Foloki was the standout performer, netting 12 goals to inspire the win—an important result amid their inconsistent campaign.
Rima Strikers continued their fine form with a resounding 29–19 victory over Benue Buffaloes, anchored by the heroic saves of goalkeeper Attahiru Sahabi, while Niger United held off De Defenders 26–22 in a tense affair. Both Yazid Kasim (Niger United) and Kola Nuhu Muhammed (De Defenders) scored six goals apiece in a tightly fought contest.
In the women’s division, Soof Omo Ogiefo recorded the biggest win of the day with a 40–25 demolition of Ekiti Queens, replicating their dominance from the National Division One League final. The Benin-based team raced to a 21–13 halftime lead and never looked back.
Rima Queens of Sokoto delivered a shock blow to Plateau Peacocks, handing them their first loss of the season with a 28–26 win, despite Choice Soji’s 12-goal effort for the Jos-based side.
The most dramatic result came in the final women’s clash of the day as Defender Babes and Rivers Queens played out a thrilling 29–29 draw. Rivers led 14–13 at halftime, but Adaobi Okoro’s standout performance—scoring 13 goals—earned Defender Babes a share of the spoils.
The competition continues in Benin City as teams jostle for early bragging rights and crucial momentum in the race for the Ardova Handball Premier League crown.
