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Niger United's coach, Yekini Adebayo, has shown optimism regarding his team's chances of claiming the Ardova Handball Premier League trophy this year.
Adebayo made this comment following his team's 21-17 victory against Benue Buffaloes on Thursday during the first phase of the league in Benin, Edo State.
Both teams started off strong, but Niger United took control, finishing the first half ahead 11-8. Although the Buffaloes fought back in the second half, they were ultimately unable to overcome United, who achieved their third win in the tournament.
Adebayo, a former utility player, reflected on the team’s previous title win three years ago and emphasized that reclaiming the title this year would be a significant relief after finishing short in the last two editions.
He conveyed confidence in his players' readiness for the challenge ahead, emphasizing their hard training and the trophy as validation of their effort.
He remarked, "This league is always highly competitive, and we are prepared to excel. Our goal is to secure the trophy this year. It’s a significant challenge, but we have what it takes."
In other matches, Safety Shooters won against De Defenders 38-27, with a half-time score of 18-15. Additionally, Osun United fell to COAS Shooters 13-25, with the first half concluding at 4-14, while Tojemarine HBC edged past Adamawa Warriors in a tightly contested match, finishing 29-27.
In the women's division, Rima Queens triumphed over Rivers Queens 33-22, with a first-half score of 16-8, while Imo Grasshoppers, after trailing Ekiti Queens 15-10 at the half, managed to turn the game around and win 29-27.
