Champions, Kano Pillars and Safety Babes started their title defence on a winning note as the first phase of the 2022 Prudent Energy Handball Premier League started yesterday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Dominant Pillars beat Police Machine 29-15 in the second game in the men’s category while newly promoted Benue Buffalos shocked Lagos side, Seasiders 29-22but Tojemarine also from Lagos, lost to Confluence Stars 37-27.
Pillars’ coach, Solomon Yola described the game against the Police team as difficult, commending their opponent for putting up a good fight. He stated that no team is a pushover and vowed that his team would do all it takes to retain the title.
He said: “The game was a difficult one and I must commend the Police Machine team for bringing out the best in my players. Our opponents played their part in an eventful game and we won. Our aim is to retain the title despite having good teams in the league.
“The players are fatigued having just participated in the Winners’ Cup in Niger Republic. We also have players who are injured but that would not stop us from realising our ambition. It is good to start with a win and hopefully it will put us in good stead as the league progresses,” Yola added.
In the women’s category, Safety Babes defeated Seasiders Babes 37-26 while Rima Queens beat Bendel Dynamos 32-29 in a keenly contested game even as D-Defender Babes work over Kada Queens.