SRFL bars Unima teams

The Peter Mutharika Southern Region Football League (SRFL) Premier Division has barred University of Malawi (Unima) teams, Chanco and Polytechnic, from taking part in the remaining games of the league.

Another team, Thondwe United, has pulled out of the league due to financial constraints, thereby reducing the number of teams from 20 to 17.

SRFL vice-general secretary Kingsley Simbeye yesterday confirmed turning down Chanco and Poly’s request to join the race now, saying it is too late as the league is now in the second-round.

“So, upon consulting other teams, we came up with a mutual agreement to exempt them until next season when they will be allowed to play in the league on condition that they come up with a way of starting the league alongside other teams,” said Simbeye.

He also said in the past, when the two institutions were closed, they would still arrange to fulfil their fixtures.

“But this time, there was no such arrangement and we have asked their officials to look into the issue,” said Simbeye.

He said in the wake of the agreement with other teams, the three bottom teams will be relegated.

Kabula United team manager Shadrick Mpesi confirmed that his team was one of those consulted on the issue.

“The two teams were not at fault, so as a compromise, it was agreed that they should be exempted from the league until next season,” said Mpesi.