Day 4 of the Ardova Premier Handball League Phase 2 delivered electrifying drama at the Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba, Lagos, with debutants Omo Ogeifo Handball Academy producing the biggest shock of the competition so far after handing league leaders Safety Babes their first defeat of the phase in what was undoubtedly the most captivating match of the day.
The encounter, which kept the crowd at the Rowe Park Sports Centre on their feet from start to finish, ended Safety Babes 22–26 Omo Ogeifo HA after the newcomers displayed remarkable discipline, tactical sharpness, ruggedness, and elite goalkeeping. Omo Ogeifo held a 12–10 advantage at halftime and maintained their momentum with a fearless second-half performance.
The hero of the match was goalkeeper Oyewusi Bisi, who delivered a stellar performance and deservedly won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Her string of brilliant saves denied Safety Babes several clear scoring chances, frustrating the defending champions and securing a historic victory for the Edo-based academy side. The win not only elevates Omo Ogeifo’s rising profile in the league but also shakes up the standings as Phase 2 heads into its defining stretch.
In the male category, De Defenders secured a convincing 37–30 win over Lagos Seasiders, pulling away in the second half after a tightly contested first period that ended 16–15 in their favor. Their superior transition play and disciplined defending proved decisive.
The second match of the day saw COAS Shooters take full control from the first half, heading into the break with a dominant 19–10 lead over Benue Buffaloes. Although the Buffaloes attempted to reduce the deficit in the second half, the Shooters maintained their momentum and composure to seal a comfortable 37–28 victory.
Niger United displayed superior firepower and tactical composure to secure a comfortable win over Osun United, who remain winless in Phase 2 of the Ardova Premier Handball League. Despite Osun’s spirited efforts in the first half, Niger United grew more dominant as the match progressed, widening the gap after the interval. The encounter ended 34–23 in favor of Niger United.
The clash between defending champions Tojemarine Handball Club and league leaders Safety Shooters was intense and evenly balanced. Safety Shooters eventually pulled away late in the second half to consolidate their top-three position, winning 28–22 despite both teams scoring 12 goals apiece at halftime. Despite Tojemarine’s defeat, winger Basit Sanni was named MVP following an outstanding individual display marked by speed, creativity, and clinical finishing.
In the female category, Rima Queens came from behind to secure a hard-fought win over debutants Ekiti Queens. The match ended 32–29 in favor of Rima Queens after they trailed narrowly at halftime. Rima tightened their defence and improved offensively to take control of the game and claim another important victory in their campaign.
The highlight of Day 4—the stunning upset by debutants Omo Ogeifo HA—sent shockwaves across Rowe Park and injected fresh excitement into the women’s title race. Safety Babes 22–26 Omo Ogeifo HA (HT: 10–12).
With unexpected results and outstanding performances, Day 4 has reshaped the dynamics of the Ardova Premier Handball League Phase 2. As the competition continues, all eyes remain on Rowe Park, where new contenders are emerging, established teams are being tested, and the race for top honours grows more intense with each passing day.
More action continues tomorrow as teams push to secure their places in the upper brackets of the championship ladder.
