The NIS Sports Hall at the National Stadium, and the Rowe Park, in Yaba are all dressed up in readiness for the second phase of the Ardova Handball Premier League, which begins tomorrow at the two venues.

 According to the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), the 22 teams participating in the league are expected to arrive in Lagos today for the second phase, which will end on December 8.
The first phase of the league was held in Benin, Edo State.

In the Men’s Category, all eyes will be on league leaders, Tojemarine Academy, as they hope to continue their lead in the second phase against seventh-placed Corrections Boys.

Tojemarine are leading the pack with 33 points; four points above second-placed Rima Strikers, who will begin their phase two campaign against De Defenders.

Niger United will hope to salvage their defence in the second phase against Sunshine Kings, who are 10th on the log.

In the Women’s Category, defending champions, Safety Babes, who are unbeaten in over two years and lead with 27 points, will begin their second phase campaign against sixth-placed Rivers Queens, while second-placed Defender Babes, who have 23 points, play fourth-place Rima Queens.
 
 According to the tournament director, Shina Sanya, the schedule of fixtures was released way ahead of time to help teams prepare adequately for the league.

 He said: “As we usually do, we have released the schedule of fixtures way ahead of time so that the 22 participating teams will commence adequate preparation ahead of the matches.

“I do believe all the teams have seen the fixtures and will adequately prepare and schedule their travels so that they get to Lagos, and attend the technical meeting before playing against their opponents.”