Age cheating scandal spoils Malindi girls’ party

Malindi Secondary School from Zomba won all their matches at the inaugural Cosafa Zone CAF African Schools Championships girls tournament at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Saturday.

However, an age-cheating scandal has spoiled the party as a complaint from South Africa hangs on their head for allegedely using players over 15 years of age.

The tournament’s director Gomezgani Zakazaka  confirmed the development, saying organisers are set to decide Malindi’s fate today ahead of the prize presentation.

Malindi on Saturday whacked Seychelles’ Anse Boileau 5-0 in a match attacking midfielder Victoria Mkwala, who scored a brace, was named the most influential player.

The Malawi flag carriers  went on to become star performers of the day, beating South Africa’s Edendale Technical 1-0 to enter day two top of the table.

Goalkeeper Emily Maulidi was named the most outstanding player in the match.

On day two, they survived a scare from Botswana’s Mothamo JSS to win 1-0 in their first game.

The Malawi representatives also produced the most outstanding player in defender Linda Manyenje.

The final hour came in their last match in which they needed to beat Comoros’ GS Ningha to grab the top prize.

After a slow start, Malawi went on to complete the rout of all teams with a 3-0 win with goals from Victoria Mkwala, Leah Musa and Talandira Chinyamula, who  was also the most outstanding player.

Malindi coach Timothy Kinyota Banda was over moon following her girls’ impressive run.

On the age-cheating allegations, he said all his players are Under-15.

Said Banda: “These are players in Form One and Two. No one is over-aged.”

Malawi Schools Sports Association chairperson Blackson Malamula said they advised all the schools on the rules and regulations of the competition.