The latest episode of the battle of giants between Mighty Wanderers and Big Bullets that was staged at Civo Stadium in the capital on Saturday, grossed K10.9 million. This was K2 million more than what was realised in the teams’ first-round encounter played at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre in May this year.
According to Super League of Malawi (Sulom) general secretary Williams Banda, after other deductions and costs, the two teams got K2.3 million each.
Asked why teams make more revenue in Lilongwe compared to Blantyre, Banda said: “The outsourcing gate-management system helps teams yield more money. It also has to do with the attitude of Central Region fans, who generally have the welfare of their teams at heart.
“The fact that games in Lilongwe are not marred by violence could be another contributing factor because more people are encouraged to patronise the games.”
The Sulom GS also said the money can help teams alleviate some of their problems such as players’ outstanding dues.
“Priority should always be on the welfare of the players. Clubs need to embrace the outsourcing system and it is encouraging that government has promised to implement the system at Kamuzu Stadium as well.
“From what we hear, all that remains is for the authorities at the Ministry of Sports headquarters to communicate with stadium management,” said Banda.
While the capital city continues to be a money spinner for teams, Wanderers general secretary David Kanyenda said he was not happy with the sharing system.
“We forced them to give us K2.3 million, teams received less than half. The system is extortionate and must be reviewed.
“If the current authorities cannot do so, then those aspiring to administer football must undertake to review the game management system, especially the teams’ shares,” said Kanyenda, adding: “Otherwise, in terms of revenue, the economy in Lilongwe is bigger.”
Bullets general secretary Higger Mkandawire described the figure as satisfactory, saying: “At least we can manage to pay the players.”
According to Sulom, K1.5 million covered other expenses, ground owners also got K2.3 million, Sports Council got K460 000 while FAM and Sulom went away with K920 000 each. n
