Nigeria’s women completed the double over Ghana with a 24-8 win at Alaro City in Lagos. The visitors were much improved from their 40-0 defeat in game one, the matches proving to be excellent preparation for Nigeria’s trip to Canada to play in the IRL Women’s World Series later in the month.

Nigeria women’s coach, Luke Shearman, commented: “There was improvement in certain areas for both teams, and I must credit Ghana for hitting us with everything they had. I was proud of our girls for their committed defence and the future of rugby league for women in Africa, with these two nations leading the way, is in a good position.” 

Centre Blessing Aladeyelu opened Nigeria’s account in the third minute, and Ghana were put under more early pressure when Christiana Ndewine was sent to the sin bin for a high tackle. However, Nigeria failed to capitalise and Ghana scored next through a Grace Nketia penalty.

Lauretta Bayere finished a move out wide to put Nigeria further ahead and Precious Ukwuoma found her way to the line on the stroke of half time for a third unconverted to give Nigeria a 12-2 lead at the break. 

The Green Falcons were quick out of the blocks in the second half with Becky Okitipe crossing, Jacqueline Ansah replying with Ghana’s only try of the series try just after the hour mark to great cheers, Nketia adding the extras. 

Faustina Akeje barged her way through the middle for the hosts fifth try, Ghana again down to 12 players when Maria Tii Pegyine was sin binned for kicking in the tackle, paving the way for Nigeria to take advantage of the overlap for Abiola Obazuaye’s score.

“It was a great game for us,” said Riddick Alibah, Ghana women’s coach. “We had a very young team and we are looking to build the sport in Ghana. The first game was a new experience for them and there were a lot nerves. This time we minimised our errors and that made the difference. The girls were excited and it was positive and we wish Nigeria all the best, they are representing all of Africa in the World Series.”