Ardova H’ball Premier League: Safety Babes Outgun Imo Grasshoppers to Stay Firm in 5th Consecutive Title Chase
Safety Babes strengthened their push for the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 crown with a commanding 43–32 victory over Imo Grasshoppers on Day 9 of Phase 2, showing once again why they remain one of the most formidable sides in the women’s category.
The defending champion, who will most definitely win a 5th consecutive premier league title, stamped their authority early, edging the first half 19–16 before pulling away decisively in the second half with their trademark fast breaks and organised defending. Imo Grasshoppers tried to rally but were outmatched by the firepower and depth of the Safety Babes squad.
Elsewhere in the women’s fixtures, Defender Babes were held to a 28–28 draw by Rima Queens despite leading 14–9 at halftime. Rivers Queens fell 25–29 to Plateau Peacocks, while Omo Ogiefo Academy continued their fine form with a strong 30–23 win over Ekiti Queens.
In the men’s category, Lagos Seasiders were awarded a 10–0 walkover after Adamawa Warriors who failed to show up. Correction Boys claimed an emphatic 40–30 win over Benue Buffaloes, controlling proceedings from the first half where they led 18–11. COAS Shooters also delivered a solid defensive display, outclassing De Defenders 37–23.
Rima Strikers maintained momentum in their title hunt with a 30–23 victory against Osun United, and Safety Shooters completed the day with a convincing 34–22 win over Niger United after taking a dominant 15–9 lead into the break which draws them closer to the Premier League title since they last won it in 2019.
Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2
Match Day 9 Results
FEMALE:
1) Defender Babes–Rima Queens 28–28 (14–09).
2) Imo Grasshoppers–Safety Babes 32–43 (16–19).
3) Rivers Queens–Plateau Peacocks 25–29 (12–11).
4) Ekiti Queens–Omo Ogiefo Academy 23–30 (11–15).
MALE:
1) Adamawa Warriors–Lagos Seasiders 00–10 (W/O).
2) Benue Buffaloes–Correction Boys 30–40 (11–18).
4) De Defenders–COAS Shooters 23–37 (14–20).
5) Osun United–Rima Strikers 23–30 (10–18).
6) Niger United–Safety Shooters 22–34 (09–15).
