The third day of action at the ongoing Ardova Handball Premier League in Benin City, Edo State, saw dominant performances from sides, including safety shooters, Niger United, and Rima Queens.

In the men’s category, Niger United edged Benue Buffaloes 21–17 in a tightly contested game. Both teams started strongly, but it was United, who took control, winning the first half 11–8. The Buffaloes mounted a brief resurgence after the break, but Niger United held firm to secure their third win of the tournament.

Safety Shooters were also in fine form, defeating De Defenders 38–27 in a fast-paced encounter. The Shooters led 18–15 at halftime and widened the gap after the break with a dominant second-half display.

Elsewhere, COAS Shooters cruised past Osun United 25–13, having built a commanding 14–4 lead in the first half. Tojemarine HBC bounced back from a previous defeat with a hard-fought 29–27 victory over Adamawa Warriors in one of the most intense games of the day.

In the women’s division, Rima Queens got a commanding 33–22 win over Rivers Queens. They led 16–8 at halftime and never looked back.

Imo Grasshoppers staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Ekiti Queens 29–27. The Grasshoppers trailed 15–10 at the break but rallied in the second half to turn the tide in their favour.

Following Niger United’s win, head coach Yekini Adebayo praised his team’s performance and expressed confidence in their title ambitions.

“We won the title three years ago, and winning it again this season would be a great reward for all the hard work we’ve put in,” Adebayo said. “This league is always very competitive, but we are ready. Our players have trained hard, and we believe we can go all the way.”