Sports | Malawi Nyasa Times - News from Malawi about Malawi

Silver Strikers FCplayer celebrating goals

Silver Strikers on Wednesday vented their anger of a bad start in the TNM Super League when they thrashed little known Chulu club of Kasungu 12-0 in the regional play offs of the Presidential Cup to qualify for the national phase. [caption id="attachment_108886" align="alignright" width="600"]

Silver Strikers FCplayer celebrating goals[/caption] “This is an emphatic win,” coach for the bankers Lovemore Fazili told Nyasa Times. “But we will not be carried away,” he said. Mafco FC registered cricket scores when they walloped Mkweza Youth 15-0 to sail through. Dwangwa United also booked their place in the national phase when they beat Ntcheu Youth Valley 4-0 with midfielder Jack Chiona becoming the first player to score a hat-trick. Chiona is a leading top scorer in the tournament. Mighty Be Forward Wanderers Peter Wadabwa is trailing with two goals the same as Khuda Muyaba of Moyale. In other games Azam Tigers sent Zomba United packing when their match was decided in post-match penalties with 5-4 score line. Wizards FC are also in the national phase pot after beating Sayama 3-1.

Civo to face Master Security

TNM Super League top sides go into the regional second round play offs again against minnows. [caption id="attachment_108891" align="alignright" width="600"]

Civo to face Master Security[/caption] On Tuesday, May 10, Mighty Be Forward Wanderers, who beat Cobbe Barracks 3-1 in the first round played last Tuesday, date Songani Veterans at Kamuzu Stadium while Big Bullets, who beat Sable Farming 5-1 meet MDF Marine on Wednesday, May 11 also at Kamuzu Stadium. Silver Strikers, who massacred little-known Chulu 12-0, now face Dedza Young Soccer Reserves at their home turf next Tuesday while Azam Tigers meet Umodzi at Kalulu Stadium Red Lions meet Nsanama at Balaka Stadium while Wizards FC face Partners in Health at Mpira Stadium. Disqualified Meanwhile, Footbaĺl Association of Malawi (Fam) has announced that Victory Rangers of Thyolo have been disqualified from the tournament for causing abandonment of the match when they refused to continue play in their match against Hard Knockers when the scores were 1-1. Hard Knockers have now won the match and proceed to the second round where they will play Max Bullets. The full Presidential Cup second round fixtures are as follows: TUESDAY 10th MAY Be Forward Wanders v Songani Veterans @ Kamuzu Stadium Silver v Dedza Young Soccer Reserves @ Silver Stadium KB/Epac vs. Maganga @ Civo Stadium Dwangwa United vs. Kasungu Medicals @ Chitowe Karonga United vs. Rumphi Pirates @ Mzuzu Stadium WEDNESDAY 11th MAY Azam Tigers v Umodzi @ Kalulu Stadium Nyasa Big Bullets v MDF Marine @ Kamuzu Red Lions FC v Nsanama @ Balaka Stadium Wizards FC v Partners in Health @ Mpira Stadium Mafco v Ambassadors @ Chitowe Blue Eagles/Madisi Dwangwa v Town Hammers @ Nankhaka Master Security v Civo United @ Civo Stadium Masendesende v Moyale Barracks @ Mzuzu Stadium THURSDAY 12th MAY Max Bullets v Hard Knockers @ Kalulu Stadium Mchenga Utuwa v Manyamula @ Mzuzu Stadium @ 12 noon Kabwafu v Ipota Mzuzu Stadium @ Mzuzu Stadium @ 14:30

Brave Hearts captured during training at Mkwichi court on Thursday

Brave Hearts Basketball Club (BHBC) is expected to participate in a basketball tournament in Lusaka, Zambia, having being invited by the Basketball Association of Zambia (Baz). [caption id="attachment_109061" align="alignright" width="600"]

Brave Hearts captured during training at Mkwichi court on Thursday[/caption] Chairman of the club Griffin Kalua said the club, which leaves Friday by road has been invited to play as a guest team in an invitational tournament scheduled for Zamshare Indoor Basketball Court in Lusaka this Saturday and Sunday. “We got an invitation from president of the Basketball Association of Zambia Konrad Msonda, who watched the team during the B-Ball Kita basketball tournament in Tanzania early this year earlier this year. He got impressed with the team after watching us beat one of the Tanzanian top teams. “Everything is well set and we are going to fulfil two fixtures against top Zambian basketball teams. As management and sponsors of the club, we have given the team all the support needed to prepare for the tournament and are hoping for good results,” said Kalua, who doubles as managing director for the two Lilongwe based sister companies Dr Print and G.Y Imports and Exports that sponsor BHBC. The chairman also said the team has been given the nod by Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) to participate in the Zambian tournament. General secretary for Basmal Edgar Ng’ong’ola confirmed in an interview with Nyasa Times that the club has been given all the blessings by the local basketball governing body to participate in the two-day tournament. “They have our full blessings and are traveling with an official from Basmal. The good about Brave Hearts is that they always engage us as the national basketball body association in their programmes,” said Ng’ong’ola. The Basmal general secretary said the trip would offer the Malawian team some international exposure that will help in the development of the game at local level. The club, which registered for Central Zone Basketball League (Cezobal) League B leaves today by road and is expected back home on Monday. All travel expenses for the team are being met by the printing specialists and G.Y Imports and Exports, dealers in ICT equipment, stationery, furniture, and other house hold items.

Chigoli squad during last week's visit to Kamuzu Academy

Chigoli football academy visited Kamuzu Academy in Kasungu last weekend for a training session with students there and its staff took an opportunity to introduce the sport of FootGolf there. [caption id="attachment_109064" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chigoli squad during last week's visit to Kamuzu Academy[/caption] Lilongwe Golf Club will on May 29 host the FootGolf tournament, the first of its kind in sport, courtesy of the fast-growing-in-stature Lilongwe-based football academy. Their online newsletter said the Chigoli staff were joined by their counterparts at Kamuzu Academy for a quick round of FootGolf to get a little bit of practice before the national championships. "It was a pretty basic version of the game, using trees as the pins, but it was great fun. [The May 29 tournament] is definitely an event worth taking part in at the Lilongwe Golf Club. Chigoli, a non-profit football development organisation, intends to use the tournament to fund-raise its activities. Interested participants will be required an entrance fee of K15,000 each with a refundable deposit of K5,000 if they will require to hire a football. FootGolf is a fast growing sport throughout the world, with an international governing body, the Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG), which has member nations across the globe. "Footgolf as a sport is played on golf courses, and Lilongwe Golf Club have agreed to become pioneers in this venture bringing the sport into Malawi for the first time," says Chigoli in a statement made available to Nyasa Times. The tournament will be played over 9 holes with various prizes being awarded for both men and women. The sport mixes the game play of golf, with the skill sets required for football. The game is played the same way as golf, except players use a football instead of a golf ball, and the ball is kicked rather than struck with a club towards a target. The first shot has to be played from the tee box and to reach the hole, bunkers, trees, water and hills have to be crossed or avoided (just like in golf). This means a powerful shot is useful, but not decisive because the players have to read the course just like in golf in which a smart approach and accurate putting are even more important. Entrance fees must be paid in advance through calling or messaging Alex on 0991135611 or George on 0996391727, or by emailing info@chigoli.org.

Achutan is back in hockey

Veteran administrator Krishna Achuthan has been co-opted into the Hockey Association of Malawi (Ham) board as vive-president to replace another veteran Dean Pinto, who suddenly died last month. [caption id="attachment_109066" align="alignright" width="324"]

Achutan is back in hockey[/caption] [caption id="attachment_107331" align="alignright" width="471"]

Dean Pinto died last month[/caption] Constitutionally the board is empowered to co-opt someone to the board but they have to be formally confirmed or rejected by affiliates at the next AGM. Achuthan has served as general secretary for many years but was ousted last year by Wanthaza Mughogho. "Our President, Tochi Gill, is away out of the country till end June, so the AGM is to be held in July when he's back. Till then Krishna is the VP," said acting general secretary Chigomezgo Thindwa. "Basically, it was the President's and the board's wish to have Krishna co-opted on account of his time in hockey and his relative availability for hockey. "They did consult the board as well as the clubs here in Blantyre for their endorsement which he got so that's why he was confident to have him return and Mr. Achutan has already started his duties.” Achutan is a well-known hockey administrator who has worked tirelessly for the development of the sport including the project to have a public artificial turf. Pinto, a renowned sportsman, died suddenly last month. He was an ardent hockey player in his days as well as a prolific national football player.

Thunder Queens sounds sos...photo jeromy kadewere

With few days remaining to the 2016 Airtel Money national finals throw-off in Lilongwe, Thunder Queens, one of the teams expected to feature at the finals is not certain on whether they will travel to Lilongwe or not for the games due to financial challenges, a problem that has affected the team since losing sponsorship to Malawi Telecommunications Limited (MTL) a few years ago. [caption id="attachment_109078" align="alignright" width="600"]

Thunder Queens sounds sos...photo jeromy kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109077" align="alignright" width="400"]

Captain Joana Kachilika: Help us[/caption] The development has worried players who instead of putting their heads up for the games are busy hunting for organizations and well wishers to rescue their situation. According to the team’s captain Joana Kachilika, the situation is worrying players as they are not sure on whether they will take part in the finals or not. The national finals will be played from 19 to 21 May. “We are not sure on whether we will take part in the competition or not. Our officials are trying their best to source funds for the trip. As players we are also trying our level best to help them. The total budget is K717 thousand and we are at zero now. Last week we had a fundraising big walk where we raised K30 thousand only. We have used all the money for transport and buying a few materials for the team,” said Kachilika who is also a Malawi netball team player. Kachilika also hinted that most players are playing for the love of the team. She said the team can no longer attract promising talent with the current situation. However, she brushed aside fears of poor performance if they are to participate. “We have a good crop of players who have vast experience. They know how important it is to win the competition or finish among the top three. We have proved that during the presidential cup where we finished among the top teams despite facing similar problems. We are appealing to companies and individuals to bail us out of this situation. We promise to do better,” Kachilika said. Thunder Queens formerly MTL Queens is among the oldest teams in Malawi and has produced several stars of the game including current Queens Assistant Coach Mary Waya. Despite losing the sponsorship, the team still contributes a lot of players to the Malawi netball team. Apart from Kachilika, some of the current Thunder Queens players who play for the Malawi netball team are Thandi Galeta, Martha Dambo, and Sharo Kaiche.

TNM Public Relations Officer Limbani Nsapato: Overwhelming response

Malawi's Super League sponsors, TNM, says it is overwhelmed with the supporter's participation of the two promotions it has introduced this season called 'Predict and Win' and 'Sapota Kawawa'. [caption id="attachment_99806" align="alignright" width="368"]

TNM Public Relations Officer Limbani Nsapato: Overwhelming response[/caption] The first draw has been conducted that saw Jacob Gauti from Chikwawa and Moses Chiopsa from Lilongwe walking away with K50,000 each for predicting Civo vs Silver and Befoward Wanderers vs Nyasa Big Bullets games respectively. The two promotions intend to create a platform for supporters to actively engage themselves throughout the 2016 TNM Super League season. The Predict and Win gives an opportunity to supporters to predict results of the matches through SMS while Sapota Kawawa promotion, which shall be restricted to social media, will allow soccer lovers a change to participate in the promotion by posting their latest photos captured at the stadiums on TNM's social media pages. Speaking during the first draw of the promotions, TNM's Public Relations and Sponsorship Manager Limbani Nsapato said the company was overwhelmed with the supporter's participation during the first week. "As a brand we have introduced these promotions to fully engage football fans in the sport with TNM SMS service and let them participate beyond just watching the game and we are excited with participation of supporters during the first week of the promotion as demonstrated by the predictions that we received from them," Nsapato said. Gauti who is Nyasa Big Bullets supporter was all smiles after the news was broke to him. "It is my first time to win in a promotion like this one, I would therefore encourage other supporters to continue participating while enjoying the beautiful game," Gauti said. In the Predict & Win promotion, TNM will be giving out cash to lucky customers ranging from K50,000 weekly to K100,000 at the end of each month and the grand cash prize of K1.5 million shall be given away at the end of the season in December. To predict, subscribers are required to send SMS of their prediction to code 1515 i.e MAX 1-CIVO 1. Predictions shall close 30 minutes (2pm) before kick-off of selected game. In the Sapota Kawa promo, participants shall simply be required to take their images as they cheer and support their respective clubs and send them to TNM's social media handles that include; Twitter: @alwayswithyoumw, Instagram: @alwayswithyoumw and Facebook: Telekom Networks Malawi Limited. Airtime worth K2,500 shall be awarded to each image with the most likes, most shared and most commented every week when the league in motion.

Chiumia cuts a ribbon assited by the Ambassador

Malawi Olympic Committee (Moc) says the newly constructed hostel funded by the Japanese government is going to ease camping problems that sports associations and their athletes were facing during preparations of major events. [caption id="attachment_109152" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia, Shuichiro pose with Moc officials in front of the new building[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109151" align="alignright" width="600"]

The new hostel[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109150" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia presents a gift to the Ambassador as Kanjala looks on[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109149" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia cuts a ribbon assited by the Ambassador[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109153" align="alignright" width="600"]

Judo athletes performing during the handover ceremony[/caption] President of the National Olympic Committee (Noc) Oscar Kanjala made the remarks on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 when the Japanese Ambassador Shuichiro Nishioka handed over a 40-bed hostel constructed by the Noc at the Olympafrica Centre in Kawale II Lilongwe with funding from the Japanese government. The Japanese government, through its local mission provided a grant of USD $97, 252 (About MK43 million) for construction of the hostel, which has all camping facilities including a kitchen, lounge, shower rooms, study room, matron’s room and rest-rooms. “Our associations have been facing problems accommodating athletes ahead of major competitions and this hostel is going to ease those problems. Apart from the excellent facilities that the hostel has, the building is located closer to facilities of the Olympafrica Centre and Kamuzu Institute of Sports, which will make it easy for athletes to concentrate on their training without outside interference,” said Kanjala. Sports and Culture Minister Grace ‘Obama’ Chiumia, who was guest of honour during the handover ceremony commended the Japanese government for funding the project, which she said was a sign of the good bilateral relations existing between Malawi and Japan. “This is not the first time that the Japanese government has assisted Malawi in the development of sports. Apart from funding several local projects, the government of Japan has been sending coaches and volunteers to train our local athletes especially Judo and Kendo athletes and work in other fields,” said Chiumia. She asked Moc and athletes using the hostel to take good care of the facility so that it also benefits the future generation of athletes. In his handover speech, Shuichiro said the hostel was funded under the Grant Assistance for Cultural Grass-root Projects, for which Malawi was the first beneficially. “This facility has come at the right time when some athletes will be preparing for the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games scheduled for August and September in Brazil. It is also our hope that athletes will be motivated to work hard in their respective sporting codes and that more Malawian athletes will compete at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said. The Japanese Ambassador disclosed that his government was implementing the ‘Sports for Tomorrow’ programme, expected to impact on more than one million future athletes in over 100 countries worldwide by the year 2020.

Equal day as Jabu Linje is in the middle of Civo players...Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Mighty Be Forward Wanderers and CIVO Service United played out to a goalless draw at the Kamuzu stadium as the race for points in the TNM super league continues. [caption id="attachment_109188" align="alignright" width="600"]

Equal day as Jabu Linje is in the middle of Civo players...Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109190" align="alignright" width="600"]

Pep talk from Francis Mlimbika to Linje...Photo jeromy Kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109191" align="alignright" width="600"]

Sulom Treasure Tiya Somba Banda presenting man of the match award to Peter Wadabwa of Wanderers-.Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109193" align="alignright" width="600"]

Pofera Jegwe happy with creditable point....Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109192" align="alignright" width="600"]

Jack Chamangwana not pleased with draw -Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109189" align="alignright" width="600"]

Nomads fans frustrated...Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] Wanderers who are without a win now in three league matches are yet to get maximum points at home as the only victory they registered so far was a 2-1 away win over Silver Strikers on the league opening day. Coach Jack Chamangwana made four changes to his starting eleven against Cobbe Barracks during the mid-week game with Jaffalie Chande, Alfred Manyozo, Jabulani Linje and Wongani Kaipa coming in for Rafiq Mussa, Amos Bello, Ted Sumani and the suspended Stanley Sanudi. Despite making tactical changes to the team, the nomads could not live up to their supporter’s expectation and were frustrated by the Jeresi Lufeyo and Nelson Kangunje inspired CIVO. Lufeyo and Kangunje dominated the mid-field battle in the first 45-minutes and no wonder, Linje and Kaliati were substituted midway into the second half for Amos Bello and Bruno Milanzi respectively. Wanderer’s players, supporters and technical panel were then left frustrated as CIVO players spent more time on the ground than on the ball during the last quarter of the match. CIVO lost four players namely Innocent Phiri, Dan Msimuko, Jeres Lufeyo , and Fletcher Bandawe due to injuries which Wanderers Coach Jack Chamangwana called “plastic” and were done deliberately to kill the tempo of the game. “Am really disappointed if that was their game plan. How can they spend most of the time on the ground faking injuries? That’s not football and I don’t think they deserve to get away with a point. The referee was lean on them and should have punished them severely,” lamented Chamangwana. In his remarks, CIVO Coach Millias Pofera Jegwe said he was happy with the away point and the performance of his players despite admitting his players had fitness problems. “Yes my players spent much time on the ground but that wasn’t our game plan. Thank you for making that observation and hope to rectify it. However, am happy with my boys performance and getting away with a point against a strong team like Wanderers is not a mini-achievement,” said the well dressed Jegwe. The result left Wanderers on 6 points from four games while CIVO are on 5 points from the same number of games.

Malawi team the Flames

Malawi national football team have moved a step up on the latest FIFA world ranking released on Friday. [caption id="attachment_98420" align="alignright" width="600"]

Malawi team the Flames[/caption] The Flames have moved to position 106 from 107 despite being idle for the month of April. Flames coach Ernest Mtawali however said the team could get better rankings should they play more games regularly. "We have moved up and is a bonus on our part because we didn't play any match during the month of April. For the time being it can be good if we can move to somewhere in the 80s and 90s," he said. He also said the team should strive to get good results. "Playing a lot of games alone does not guarantee a rise on FIFA rankings. So we also need to get good results," he said. Malawi is the highest ranked team in Group B of Cosafa with former champions Angola 121, Lesotho 148 and Mauritius 154. The Cosafa tournament is scheduled for May to June this year in Namibia.

Mwase: Award winning

Malawian coach Meke Mwase has underlined his pedigree in his first season at Swaziland top league club Mbabane Highlanders after winning best coach award for the first round. [caption id="attachment_349" align="alignright" width="293"]

Mwase: Award winning[/caption] The award ceremony held at Mbabane Club on Friday handed down the former Be Forward Wanderers, Nyasa Bullets defence pillar the award and walk away with R3,000 (about K120,000) for the feat. The former Malawi national football team captain, known for his few words, was overwhelmed with joy. “I am very happy and excited for winning the award,” Mwase said. It was double celebration for the Mbabane Highlanders having captain Xolani Chocco Sibandze winning the best player award. “Yes my captain Xolani Chocco Sibandze has also won. He is the best player and top goal player for first round Very excited and happy,” he said. Mwase’s team was on course to win the league title but the two-all draw had put the campaign in jeopardy as they were displaced by hot title contenders Leopards with a game to go. Leopards took control after winning last weekend and have opened a one point gap which has put Highlanders to pray for a miracle if at all the Malawian would realize his dream of winning a title for them in nine years.

Karonga United

Super League of Malawi (Sulom) has set second week of May for Karonga United to taste Malawi's flagship league after returning from the lower league through a boardroom decision. [caption id="attachment_77014" align="alignright" width="600"]

Karonga United[/caption] Karonga United were relegated from the league four seasons ago but returned after Chilumba Barracks forfeited their promotion because of sponsorship woes. Sulom General Williams Banda said all was set for Karonga who replaced Chilumba having finished as runners-up in the Northern Region Football Association League to join the party. He said should the team satisfy the club licencing requirements their first game would be fixed in the second week of May. "We are looking at a few things regarding club licencing should they meet the requirements there's nothing that can stop us from giving them games by the second week of May," Banda. The development comes after the team was assured of financial support from Bishop Abraham Simama who is also the sponsor of Northern Football League. Simama whose son is of the trustees bailed out the team after one of the front line sponsors Willy Yabwanya pulled under controversial circumstances. Wizards FC who also returned to Malawi's flagship league courtesy of another boardroom decision started the campaign but in style after beating Red Lions. Dwangwa United also bounced back after winning the Central Region League title just while Max Bullets are the only league debutants after being promoted from the lower league in the Southern part of Malawi.

Blue Eagles FC. on the lead. of the league-.Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Blue Eagles remain on course for their league title campaign as they registered a fifth victory in a row since the league kicked off. [caption id="attachment_109236" align="alignright" width="600"]

Silver revival continues: Match the bankers defeated Wizards[/caption] [caption id="attachment_108747" align="alignright" width="600"]

Nyasa Big Bullets FC frustrated to a draw...photo Jeromy Kadewere.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_108803" align="alignright" width="600"]

Blue Eagles FC. on the lead. of the league-.Photo Jeromy Kadewere[/caption] The Lilongwe based police team beat Red Lions by 3-0 at the Nankhaka ground to take their tally of points to 15 from five games. Maxwell Salambula, Gilbert Chirwa and Enock Likoswe were on target to ensure Eagles maintain their top spot in the ongoing race for the TNM Super league title. While Eagles were busy taunting the Zomba based soldiers, their brothers in mission Kamuzu Barracks had another fruitful day as they registered a 2-0 victory over Wizards F.C who returns to Blantyre without a point as they succumbed to another defeat on Saturday to Silver Strikers. Goals from Dan Ziba and Manase Chiyesah ensured maximum points for the Lilongwe based soldiers. Still in the central region, Dan Phiri scored in extra time to deny defending champions Nyasa Big Bullets maximum points against MAFCO as the two teams drew 2-2 all at the Chitowe ground. Veteran Chiukepo Msowoya scored a brace for the people’s team before Phiri equalled his feat in extra time to savage a point for the Salima based soldiers. Up in the north, Mayeso Kamanga, Timothy Nyirenda and Kuda Muyaba were on target for Moyale as the Mzuzu based soldiers saw off Max Bullets at Mzuzu Stadium. Mayeso Mphanje scored a brace for Max Bullets who on Saturday lost to rookies Mzuni at the same venue. Mzuni ade it three wins out of three games with a 2-0 win over Max Bullets. In Blantyre, CIVO returns to the capital city with 2-points in the bag following another stalemate against Azam Tigers at the Kamuzu Stadium. The Lilongwe based side drew 0-0 with Be Forward Wanderers on Saturday. Good campaign Speaking to Nyasa Times after the fourth week results since the league kicked off, the league’s governing body, the Super League Association of Malawi (SULOM) General Secretary Williams Banda said so far so good. how they stand

“I can assure you that we no longer have underdogs in the league since the kick off. Just look at the results and log table where you will see unfamiliar teams in the top-half. This is a clear indication that we are improving just by looking at the level of competition. “ We are happy with the progress so far and are we are hoping for better developments in future,” said Banda. Commenting on when Malawians should expect the 16th team in action, Banda said Karonga United who replaced Chilumba Barracks as the team promoted from Northern region Football League will be in action during week 5 of the league’s fixtures. “I can confirm that Karonga United will be in action this coming weekend. Their first assignment is against Silver Strikers at the Mzuzu Stadium. “We are still assessing their other option of a home ground which is Nthalire stadium. Once we are done with our assessments, we will come back and announce if the venue is indeed suitable and qualified to host a super league match,” Banda said. After a fourth round of games, Blue Eagles remain top with 15 points from games with Mzuni on second with 9 points from 4 games while Moyale occupy third position with 7 points from 4games. EPAC F.C, Nyasa Big Bullets, Be Forward Wanderers, CIVO Service United, and Silver Strikers are on 6 points each and only separated by goal difference.

Mzuni FC

Second-placed Mzuzu University (Mzuni) continue giving leaders Blue Eagles the chase in the TNM Super League after beating visiting Max Bullets 2-0 on Saturday to amass nine points from four games, six points behind the leaders Eagles. [caption id="attachment_89093" align="alignright" width="600"]

Mzuni FC[/caption] how they stand

Eagles have won all their five games and are one game ahead of those close behind. On third place are Moyale with seven points from four games. The Mzuzu-based soldiers have moved from position five. Epac have moved from position nine to four after beating Dwangwa United 3-0 to garner six points. They tie on six points with fifth-placed Big Bullets, who drew 2-2 with Mafco on Sunday at Chitowe and Mighty Be Forward Wanderers, who were also held by visiting Civo United through a goalless match at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday. Also on six points are 7th-placed Civo United and Silver Strikers on position 8. Silver have moved from 12th after Wizards 2-0 on Saturday. This weekend will have two interesting fixtures — that between the leaders Blue Eagles and third-placed Moyale at Nankhaka and one between runners-up Mzuni up against a resurrected Silver Strikers. At their turf Silver are a hard nut to crack as well as the Eagles at their Nankhaka. Defending champions will be taking on Epac at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday while Wanderers will be up against Mafco at the same venue the following day. The following are the full fixtures: Saturday, May 14 Nyasa Big Bullets v Epac at Kamuzu Stadium Wizards v Mafco at Kalulu/Mpira Village Red Lions v Azam Tigers at Balaka Stadium Civo United v Moyale at Civo Stadium Sunday, May 15 Be Forward Wanderers v Mafco at Kamuzu Stadium Karonga United v Silver Strikers at Mzuzu Stadium Blue Eagles v Moyale at Nankhaka Kamuzu Barracks v Dwangwa at Civo Stadium Max Bullets v Epac at Kalulu/Mpira Village

Kwimbila gets material from FAM official

Malawi’s top women’s football Fifa assistant referee Bernadettar Kwimbira Mzika has made another milestone in her glittering career after being selected for Rio 2016 Olympic Games officiating panel. [caption id="attachment_109312" align="alignright" width="600"]

Kwimbila gets material from FAM official[/caption] Kwimbira Mzika put Malawi on the world map by officiating in the inaugural Olympic Youth Games held in China 2014. The Malawian refreee has been selected with only two other referees from Africa with Gladys Lengwe from neighbouring Zambia and Suad Oulhaj fro Morocco. The former Malawi’s top female athelete is first assistant referee with the Moroccan being second assistant while the Zambia’s Lengwe is the referee. She described the selection as dream come true having officiated at World Women’s Football Cup in Canada where she also made history by becoming the first African women’s referee to handle games beyond preliminary round. “I thank God that I have been picked. I thank God for keeping me healthy because its mot easy when you grow up it becomes difficult to excel in Fifa Phyiscal Fitness Test,” Kwimbira Mzika said. Kwimbira Mzika is expected to leave on 24 July for the games which would be held from 3 August to 21 because of pre-tournament courses and Physical Fitness exercises.. This assignment is a number of feats that she has achieved having officiated at three Africa Women’s Football Cup in South Africa 2010, Equatorial Guinea in 2012 and Angola in 2014. In 2014 made the cut for the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in China, in 2015 she was picked from Afruca to handle women’s tournament in Portugal and the same year the World Women’s Football Cup in Canada. Meanwhile, FAM Executive Committee member Daud Mtanthiko has urged the referees to emulate Kwimbira’s example by performing excellently whenever assigned. Mtanthiko was speaking at Mpira Village when he was handing over equipment to 15 referees who are on the Fifa panel of referees. “By being on the Fifa radar you are the face of Malawi but you need to work hard and perform beyond expectations so that you get more recognition like Bernadetter is doing,” said Mtanthiko.

Nigerian Amos Bello to be joined by campatriot Oluma at Nomads

Saheen Oluwa Shinaoomi, a Nigerian football player who plays in attacking position, has been signed by Mighty Be Forward Wanderers with Football Association of Malawi (FAM) to join his compatriot Amos Bello at the Blues. [caption id="attachment_108928" align="alignright" width="600"]

Nigerian Amos Bello to be joined by campatriot Oluwa at Nomads[/caption] FAM player transfer matching system manager Casper Jangale confirmed that 24-years Oluwa, a product of Shiba football academy, has been registered. Last year Wanderers could not sign Nigerian player James Orash Slopajimu who was released after failing to impress. And this year, the club could also not sign other Nigerian players like Dulu Mercy Ikena, Alex Orotomol, Lawrence Ikph, Dominc Eaarafa and Tony Henry Okh.

Young talent at Chigoli football academy

Lilongwe-based Chigoli football development organisation recently hosted a group of 19 students from San Francisco as part of its programme towards a global partnership with similar football academies. [caption id="attachment_109339" align="alignright" width="600"]

Young talent at Chigoli football academy[/caption] Through football, the students from a French American International School in San Francisco shared cultural experience with their Malawian counterparts. "The group had an amazing time here both interacting with Chigoli through training, matches, teaching and character development work as whilst travelling a stunningly beautiful country," Chigoli academy said in its newsletter. One student Kayva said he was touched by the people he talked to and their attitudes towards life. "Malawi is an incredible country and the people inspired me," Kayva said on the newsletter. "It is interesting to see how content the locals are with the life they live even though they live in a very poor country. "I see so much anger in America towards others about money and power, but [in Malawi], they are so friendly and appreciate their community. I loved talking to the Chigoli players about their futures and goals, and was glad to see that some had the same as me," Kavya said. His colleague Evan thanked the organisers for making the trip possible. "It was an eye opening experience. Being in such a humble and respectful country and playing soccer there will leave a lasting impression on who I am, who I will be, and who I want to be for the rest of my life," Evan said. The academy is also sourcing online global donations through ‘Paypal Donate,’ which is accessible through www.chigoli.org. "We have recently launched a variety of small sponsorships (ranging from socks and balls) as a way for individuals to support the work of Chigoli. Additionally, there exist a number of corporate sponsorship options. We always welcome new partners and sponsors to help accelerate our mission and work," the newsletter said. At the pre-season friendly between two of TNM Super Leagueclubs, Silver Strikers and Mighty BeForward Wanderers, Chigoli was invited to play Kauma Sports Club as a curtain raiser. The Under-14's reportedly impressed the crowd with free-flowing football and some clinical finishing in which they won 7-0.

Chiumia receiving a dummy cheque from Mawind

Regional netball giants have been seeded into the top eight in the newly introduced K8 million Mpico Gateway Mall Netball Challenge, which will see the winner pocketing K1.5 million. [caption id="attachment_109365" align="alignright" width="600"]

Eagles, Civonets playing during the launch[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109369" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia receiving a dummy cheque from Mawind[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109368" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia cuts a ribborn to open the new court[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109367" align="alignright" width="600"]

Chiumia nets a basket during the launch[/caption] [caption id="attachment_109366" align="alignright" width="600"]

First action on the court was betw een Lilongwe Powers and Dowa Police (yellow)[/caption] The seeded giants include Blue Eagles Sisters, Civonets, Mafco Soldiers and newly crowned Airtel Money regional champions Green Sisters. According to CRNL chairman Fanwell Katengeza, the four will be joined in the top eight by four teams that will succeed in preliminary knock-out games set to kick-off on June 4, 2016 at the Gateway Shopping Mall court in Lilongwe’s Area 47. “We are starting the competition on June 4, 2016 with preliminary knock-out games and the finals have been set for July 2, 2016. The finals will involve the top eight teams, who will play on league basis,” said Katengeza on the side-lines of the official launching ceremony for the competition that took place last Saturday at the Gateway Mall. Apart from the launch, sponsors Malawi Property Investment Company, (MPICO) unveiled the newly designed netball court that is expected to host all the games. Board chairman for the property investment firm Dye Mawindo, speaking during the launching ceremony said the company thought of sponsoring netball because it is the sport that has been putting Malawi on the world map. “Many companies have been sponsoring football but we are not doing well in football. As a company, we thought of supporting those that are doing well,” said Mawindo, referring to the Queen’s excellent showing in international competitions and Mwayi Kumwenda’s recent achievement as World Games Sports Association athlete of the year. Sports and Culture Minister Grace ‘Obama’ Chiumia, who presided over the launch and opening of the new court hailed Mpico for coming to the league’s rescue. “I’m told CRNL has never had a sponsorship of this kind apart from sponsorships for national competitions, which start from district and regional levels. It is my hope that the league will guard this sponsorship jealously to keep the relationship with Mpico and encourage the sponsors to do more,” said Chiumia. During activities marking the launch, Blue Eagles Sisters defeated Civonets 48-36 with Lilongwe Power beating Dowa Police 18-15

football

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body that determines football laws in conjunction with world football governing body Fifa, recently made changes to the laws of the game for the 2016/17 season. The most notable is for sendings-off and cautionable offences inside the penalty area, in which accidental fouls inside the box will not be a straight red card. Previously, it was a 'triple-punishment' rule in which a player, who denied a goal-scoring opportunity, was automatically red-carded and handed a next game suspension, as well as giving away a penalty. The law has now changed so that players committing accidental fouls, that deny a goal-scoring opportunity, are not automatically sent off, but just cautioned instead. However, players will still be sent off for holding, pulling or pushing, not playing the ball or having no possibility to play the ball, serious foul play, violent conduct or deliberate handball. Referees have also had their powers extended in which they can send off a player before kick-off for, say, fighting in the tunnel but that playee can be replaced so teams start with 11. The new laws changes, to officially be used from June 1, also say that from the kick off (for the start, for the second half and after a goal has been scored) the ball can be moved in any direction rather than only kicked forward. Also changes is the rule of injury, in which players who are injured by a challenge punishable by a yellow or red card can now have quick treatment on the field, rather than having to leave. This has been taken into account because previously it gave the offending team temporary numerical advantage. Players who feint when taking penalty will now punished with yellow card and indirect freekick instead of penalty retake. Stuttering runs are still allowed. A player who accidentally loses a boot will allowed to continue playing until play next stop. Under-shorts must be same colour as shorts. On throw-ins, the ball must be thrown with both hands and not thrown with one hand and 'guided' with the other. Water breaks are permissible in "very hot/humid conditions". IFAB may in the future debate changes to hand-ball laws, including on the line (Suarez v Ghana) which could be punished with a penalty goal. According to IFAB, the changes have been made following an 18-month comprehensive review, led by former English Premier League referee David Elleray. The IFAB also approved video technology, meant help referees to determine if a goal has been scored, red cards, penalties and mistaken identity, be given a two-year trial period. The Italian Football Federation has been selected for the trial period of the video technology, because it is among the first supporters of using technology on the pitch. Meanwhile, England say they will use the new law changes when they will be playing their Euro 2016 warm-up matches. England meet Turkey in a friendly on May 22 and against Australia five days later, but IFAB has allowed matches to be played under the new laws earlier. IFAB was founded in 1886 to agree standardised Laws for international competition, and has since acted as the "guardian" of the internationally used Laws. Since its establishment in 1904, world football gobeening body, Fifa, has recognised IFAB's jurisdiction over the Laws.

Max Bullets fire coach Patrick Kulemeka

TNM Super League rookies Max Bullets have fired coach Patrick Kulemeka following an alarming slump in form that has seen the team hurtle toward the relegation zone. [caption id="attachment_108799" align="alignright" width="552"]

Max Bullets fire coach Patrick Kulemeka[/caption] Max Bullets remains winless since the season kickoff and are second from the bottom of the table.. “To find ourselves in our current situation with the poor run of results, it has brought us to this unfortunate decision,” Max Bullets owever Maxwell Kapanda told Nyasa Times. The fear of relegation from the lucrative TNM Super League has never been so acute. Kapanda said he was not satisfied with Kulemeka’s tactics and that change needed to take place . “Kulemeka has been failing to read the game,” said Kapanda. The club has now hired Trevor Kajawa as stand-in coach.

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