Karonga, Kaporo sign MoU
Karonga United have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Northern Region Football Association (NRFA) Simama Premier League side Kaporo Stars.
The MoU, which has seen Kaporo Stars owner Bikoni Chipanga being appointed as Karonga United chairperson, will see Kaporo Stars players joining the Super League entrants on free transfers.
Nevertheless, both Chipanga and former Karonga United chairperson Pezani Simama, who has become the team’s vice-chairperson, said after Karonga United makes a final squad selection, the rest of the players will be in the Kaporo side to compete in the 2016 Simama League.
“We believe the MoU is the best way to go if Karonga United is to survive in the Super League,” said Simama. “Moreover, as teams from the same district, we are one family and it is a good idea to have a strong representation in the elite league.”
According to Chipanga, Karonga United will only bank on the players from Simama League during the Super League first-round, but might consider including experienced players in the second round.
“We will start serious training on Wednesday [today] at Karonga Boma ground before moving to our official match venue Nthalire later on. We are confident of building a strong team,” Chipanga said.
Meanwhile, Karonga United sponsor Willy Yabwanya Phiri has thanked Super League of Malawi (Sulom) for giving the team some weeks to prepare before being given their first game.
“We needed more time to prepare,” Yabwanya Phiri said.
Wizards FC, who have also been given a late green light to participate in the Super League, have also intensified their preparations for top-flight league return after being relegated last season.
Wizards FC earned the last slot after Dedza Young Soccer Saints excused themselves from the play-offs meant to identify the 16th Super League outfit.
Karonga United have replaced Chilumba Barracks for finishing as runners-up in the Simama League last season.
Champions Chilumba Barracks have withdrawn due to financial constraints. n
