AHPL: Grasshoppers, Tojemarine Academy win big on Day 3

By Solomon Nwoke
Imo Grasshoppers of Owerri appear to be in their best element in this year’s Phase One of the Ardova Handball Premier League (AHPL) as they have started on a good note beating the new entrants to the top league, Ekiti Queens 29-27 after holding Rivers Queens to a 23-23 draw on the second day of the ongoing championship at the Sam Ogbomudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State.
Rivers Queens, after their initial spark on the second day could not live up to expectation in their match against a more determined Rima Queens as they bowed 23–33 (08–16). Plateau Peacocks humbled Omo Ogiefo Academy 26—21.
The men’s defending champions, Tojemarine Academy maintained their leadership quality as they dismissed Adamawa Warriors by 29—27.
Former men’s defending champions, Niger United of Minna and Safety Shooters of Abuja gave good account of themselves as they won their matches respectively. The Minna side brushed off Benue Buffaloes 21- 17 while Safety Shooters shut down the De Defenders 38-27 just as debutants Osun United could not withstand the fire power of COAS Shooters. They lost 13-25 after suffering a humiliating firt half defeat of 04-14. Rima Strikers defeated Lagos Seasiders by 32–17 (14–16).
The coach of Ekiti Queens, Ayo-Idowu Kayode remains upbeat despite his young team losing their first two games as well as to Grasshopper in their third game..
“The experience we have had in the first two days is worth it. This is the first time I am coaching at this level and my players are also playing in the elite league for the first time. Playing at this tournament is an eye opener for me, the players and Ekiti State who invest most in football.”
He noted that the standard of the league is high with teams contesting fiercely in their pursuit of glory. He also said it is a beauty to watch how teams tinker with their tactics to boost their chances of winning games.
He also, said that his team would improve with each game to better its chances of winning some games.