FAM meets over Nomads protest

The organising committee of the K20 million (about $68 000) Standard Bank Knockout Trophy was scheduled to meet on Thursday to look at a protest lodged by Mighty Wanderers FC over the venue for the final match against Silver Strikers.

The Nomads complained to the organisers FAM, arguing that staging the final at Silver Stadium will give Silver an unfair advantage as it is their home ground.

Wanderers want the match to be played at a neutral venue, preferably Nankhaka ground or alternatively, over two legs—at Silver and Balaka stadiums.

At stake is the K7 million (about $2 334) ultimate prize and the trophy.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) chief executive officer Suzgo Nyirenda said the organising committee led by its chairperson, Jaber Alide, was expected to discuss the matter on Thursday.

“We received a protest from Wanderers and we will be meeting later today to look at their complaint,” said Nyirenda.

Nomads general secretary David Kanyenda said they are hoping that their concerns will be taken into consideration.

“We have not heard anything yet from FAM. As I said, the issue of venue is big and we hope FAM and the other concerned stakeholders will not belittle it,” said Kanyenda.

He also said as organisers, FAM have an obligation and duty to respond to Wanderers’ grievances formally.

“Once they respond, we will take a position, but one thing we want to stress is that we are not planning to boycott the game, neither are we afraid to face Silver. To us the toughest match was the semi-final against Big Bullets.”

He argued that both FAM and the sponsors still have time to review the issue.

“Even the Presidential Cup final date and venue between Big Bullets and Moyale was changed at the 11th hour, when Moyale were already in town and we hope our concerns will be taken into account as well.”

“It is a request. There are these relevant factors that they must consider. AS a parent FAM should listen to our grievances other than threaten us,” he said.

On Wednesday, FAM and the sponsors announced that Silver Stadium will host the finale.