19th NSF: Seven-time Olympian Toriola wins Table Tennis men’s singles gold News

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19th NSF: Seven-time Olympian Toriola wins Table Tennis men’s singles gold

By Daily Sports on December 13, 2018

Seven-time Olympian Segun Toriola on Tuesday won the men’s table tennis singles event, beating Ganiyu Hashimyu 3-1 in the final match at the ongoing 19th National Sports Festival (NSF).

Hashimyu, who is of Bayelsa, won the first set 11-9 before Toriola who is representing Akwa Ibom stamped his authority on the game by winning 11-7 11-9 11-9 thereafter.

After the match, Toriola lauded his opponent, saying the young players in the competition showed great improvement.

“Ganiyu is a good player because at some point, I felt I needed to do more since I am more experienced than he is.

“The game wasn’t easy though, but the most important thing is to see that most of the young ones have improved and I am glad that they are capable hands to replace us (veterans) once we retire,” he said.

On his part, Hashimyu was glad to have reached the finals but disappointed he could not survive the scare.

“I have been ill for a very long time, and I just resumed training few months ago and didn’t believe I would get to the final.

“Though I hoped to win because I have played against Toriola a few times and wasn’t afraid of him. But I thank God for the silver medal I won,” he added.

In the women’s singles, Ajoke Ojomu emerged winner while Paralympian Tajudeen Agunbiade won the gold in para class 10 and para open classes 6 to 10. (NAN)

•Photo shows Segun Toriola

Source Daily Sports

Posted December 13, 2018