2026 Ardova Handball Premier League: Imo Grasshoppers End Winless Run
Imo Grasshoppers finally got their 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League campaign up and running on Sunday, handing Omo Ogiefo Academy their ninth consecutive defeat with a commanding 42-15 victory in the women’s category in Lagos.
In a clash between two teams struggling at the wrong end of the standings, Grasshoppers took control from the outset, opening up a 20-10 lead at half-time before stretching the margin after the restart to seal a convincing 27-goal win.
The result gave Grasshoppers their first victory of the competition, while Omo Ogiefo’s miserable run continued as they remained without a point after nine successive defeats.
In the other women’s fixture of the day, Funad Academy defeated Ekiti Queens 33-29. Funad held a 14-11 advantage at the break and maintained their lead in the second half to secure the four-goal victory.
The men’s category also produced several engaging contests, with Rima Strikers beating Benue Buffaloes 27-19, while Osun United overcame De Defenders 28-25.
NAF Rockets edged COAS Shooters 27-26 in one of the day’s closest encounters after both sides were locked at 13-13 at half-time.
Defending champions Safety Shooters continued their impressive form with a 42-29 triumph over Correction Boys, having established a nine-goal cushion at the interval with a 21-12 lead.
Tojemarine Academy also claimed a narrow 24-23 victory over Niger United, while Abia Matadors were awarded a 10-0 walkover win against Kano Pillars.
The Day 9 results added further intrigue to the 2026 Ardova Handball Premier League as the teams continued their battle for points and positions in the competition.
