Team Ogun showcased their prowess in women’s handball, defeating Team Kogi 32-20 in a thrilling match at the Gateway Games on Tuesday. The home side dominated early, leading 16-11 at halftime, and maintained their momentum to secure a convincing win.
Ogun’s head coach, Shola Sekoni, praised his team’s performance while acknowledging room for improvement. “I’ll give them 50 percent. We just started, but I believe we’re on track to reach the final,” Sekoni told reporters. He credited the state government for providing top-notch facilities, adding, “The governor has given us a great platform for this game.”
Sekoni noted a tactical shift in the second half to counter fatigue, which disrupted Kogi’s ability to read Ogun’s strategy. Looking ahead to their next match against Plateau, he vowed, “Our girls are leaving no stone unturned to ensure we win.”
Despite the defeat, Kogi’s head coach, Emeka Joseph, remained upbeat. “The girls played their best, and though we lost, we’re satisfied with their effort,” Joseph said. He expressed confidence in a stronger showing against Plateau in their upcoming match, stating, “We are not giving up. I believe we’ll win.”
The Gateway Games continue to deliver intense competition, with both teams now preparing for crucial matches against Plateau State.