Rima Strikers, Plateau Peacocks On Top On Day 5 As Ardova Handball League 2025 Phase 1 Heats Up in Benin City

Rima Strikers delivered a commanding performance on Day 5 of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 1, overpowering De Defenders 31–19 in a one-sided affair at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.

The Caliphate side, who now top the male category league after 5 matches, left no room for doubt as they stormed to a 15–7 lead in the first half and maintained their intensity to seal a crucial win in the men’s category. They have 15 points.

In other matches in the male category, Defending champion slide Tojemarine Academy slids into the third position with 13 points following their 27–21 victory over Benue Buffaloes while Correction Boys were ruthless in their approach, shockingly defeating Niger United 37–23, having led 20–12 at half time.

It was also a good day for COAS Shooters, who out played Lagos Seasiders 34–25 after a dominant 13–8 first-half display. They have one game at hand to regain their top position at the head of the league’s summit; having played just four matches so far.

Osun United grabbed a win with a 25–17 victory over Adamawa Warriors. They were comfortable right from the first half which they won 15-6 and the result push them up to 7th position with 6 points.

In the women’s category, Rima Queens outgunned Imo Grasshoppers 35–29 in a fast-paced encounter while Plateau Peacocks bounced back from their recent loss to defeat Defender Babes 31–22. They now top the league with 13 points after 5 matches.

Safety Babes maintained their unbeaten streak with a comfortable 36–24 triumph over Rivers Queens, leading 22–11 at the break. Safety Babes can regain their top position from Plateau Peacocks because they have two matches at hand having played three matches.

RESULTS OF DAY 5

FEMALE::

1)Plateau Peacocks–Defender Babes 31–22 (19–11).
2) Imo Grasshoppers–Rima Queens 29–35 (13–18).
3) Rivers Queens–Safety Babes 24–36 (11–22).

MALE:

1) Osun United–Adamawa Warriors 25–17 (15–06).
2) COAS Shooters–Lagos Seasiders 34–25 (13–08).
3) Correction Boys–Niger United 37–23 (20–12).
4) De Defenders–Rima Strikers 19–31 (07–15).
5) Tojemarine Academy–Benue Buffaloes 27–21 (1’7–13).