No more free gamesin ThumbsUp League
Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) has resolved to tighten security at ThumbsUp League Premier Division games so that everyone pays entry fee starting with the second-round fixtures next weekend.
SRFA general secretary Dyles Kachala made the statement on Thursday to rebuke the tendency of some individuals, who ignore the pay points and force their way into game venues especially in Blantyre City.
He said: “We have a big problem at Kamuzu Stadium and Mpira Stadium in Blantyre where many people want to watch our games for free.
“When we start the next round, such things will not be entertained as we will tighten our security at the gates. Therefore, if any one wants to enjoy our games, they better have something in their pockets to avoid embarrassment.”
According to Kachala, they do not experience such problems in other areas, including Balaka and Mangochi stadiums, where people pay to watch the games.
He also attributed the growing number of patrons at ThumbsUp League matches to the exciting and competitive football that the teams are offering.
“At times, our matches are more exciting that top-flight league games and we are proud of that,” he said.
Currently, Sable Farming FC has completed first-round fixtures with 100 percent winning record to top Group B with 12 points from four-straight wins. So far, they are the only team that has not dropped a single point across all the four groups that have five teams each.
In Group A, Nyasa Big Bullets Reserve lead the pack on better goal difference from two wins and two draws. They are tied on eight points with second-placed Wizards.
Sable coach Chancy Nsema said they are happy with their performance and they are determined to continue.
“It has been a wonderful experience for us in the league so far. Our performance has been excellent and we hope to maintain our winning run in the second round,” he said.
This season, SRFA abandoned the league format and embraced a shorter arrangement that sees their 20 Premier Division teams divided equally into five groups to play home-and-away matches. Each group’s top-two outfits will make it into the playoffs’ stage that will produce semi-finalists then eventual finalists tussle in a battle for ultimate glory.
