CRFA axes home advantage in fixture shift

Central Region Football Association (CRFA) has made key adjustments to its Week 2 Chipiku League fixtures, relocating several matches from home venues to neutral grounds to preserve the spirit of fair play.

CRFA Fixture Secretary, Wales Chanza Kazonde confirmed the strategic adjustments in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Tuesday, stressing that all stakeholders were consulted before the decision was made.

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The fixture shake-up follows concerns raised by various clubs over perceived home-ground advantages, especially in potentially high-stakes encounters.

“Football thrives when the pitch is level, literally and figuratively, Taking the game to neutral venues ensures that every squad steps onto the turf on equal footing, this game is about integrity, competitiveness, and respect,” Kazonde said.

One of the headline adjustments sees the clash between Mbadzi United and Extreme FC moved both in date and venue, from Sunday to Saturday, and from Mbadzi Ground to Blue Gym Ground. The shift was necessitated by Blue Gym’s Sunday restrictions, as the pitch is owned by a church that prohibits Sunday usage.

He said originally, Mbadzi Ground was set to host the match, but the opposing side raised concerns. After further deliberations, we agreed on Blue Gym as a fair alternative. All clubs have been duly informed and are aligned with the updates.

“The kickoff in Salima was a spectacle. The teams were sharp, organized, and hungry. If that opening is anything to go by, we’re in for one of the most electric seasons in recent memory,” Kazonde added.

This weekend’s other fixtures include exciting matchups such as Airborne FC vs St Kaduya, Kasungu Police vs Mbambande, Support Battalion vs Wimbe United, Santhe Admarc vs Luanar FC, Silver Strikers Reserve vs Green Rangers, and Dwangwa United vs Kawinga FC, a slate that promises thrills across the region.

In his remarks, General Secretary for Extreme FC, Kondwani Kayira said they are aware of the changes.

“it is just a welcoming development, considering that the communication has been done in good time and looking at the condition of the pitch, we felt the new venue is better off than the first one,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the most passionate supporters, Lyson Mussa from Lilongwe, is already bracing for an epic campaign

“This season has a different feel, “Santhe Admarc look dangerous, Silver Strikers Reserve are always solid, and Extreme FC are no pushovers either as they’re also looking for their return into the elite league, expect fireworks, this league is going to be lit!” Said Mussa

Beyond fixture changes, the association is commited to raising the professional bar this season. All players are now fully registered on Mpira Connect, ensuring transparency and eligibility compliance. Matchday officiation will feature a Referee, two Assistants, a 4th Official, and a Match Assessor, enhancing the integrity of every match.

All five matches for Week 2 will still kick off at 2:30 PM across the various venues.