Former champions, Imo Grasshoppers of Owerri were yesterday beaten 24-23 by Seasiders Babes of Lagos in the ongoing Prudent Energy Handball Premier League at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
Playing in the opening game of the day, there was nothing to separate Grasshoppers and Seasiders as both team battled each other from the beginning of the game. However, the Lagos team rallied in the final moments of the game to score the winning goal.
In the other game in the women’s category, Defender Babes beat Plateau Peacocks 26-22, Rima Queens beat Benue Queens 31–29 in a close encounter, while Safety Babes walk over Kada Queens.
In the men’s category, Police Machine lost to Rima Strikers 31-21 while Owena Kings lost its fourth match to Tojemarine Academy 35-28 even as Benue Buffaloes walk over Kada Stars.
President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Sam Ocheho commended the teams for their display, noting that the future of the game is secured in the country.
He said: “The players have shown a lot of improvement. What I have seen here is that the future of the game is secured in the country. I have also seen many young players coming through which is good for the sports in the country.”
He also commended the sponsors, Prudent Energy for bankrolling the league, adding that the alliance between the HFN and the sponsors has improved the fortunes of the game.
He also urged the teams to eschew violence and play to the rules of the game.