Unayo leagues excite Standard Bank

Standard Bank has expressed satisfaction with the competitiveness of the inaugural Unayo Division One Football Leagues in the country.

The bank’s chief financial and value management officer John Mhone made the remarks during the prize presentation ceremony of Unayo Central Region Football Association (CRFA) Division One League at Aubrey Dimba Stadium in Kapiri, Mchinji District.

Mhone said the competition was a good platform for youngsters to showcase their talent.

“We have watched quality football from all the teams. Honestly, the competition surpassed our expectations and we are proud to be part of grassroots football,” Mhone said.

Over 700 matches were played in the competition across the country since the league was launched in April last year.

Standard Bank invested K46 million in Division One Leagues in the country’s three regions.

Football Association of Malawi (Fam) First Vice President Justice Jabbar Alide hailed Standard Bank for unearthing talent.

“We are very impressed with standards of play. This is good for football in Malawi. We are also impressed with the organisation of the league,” Alide, who is also chairperson of Fam Competitions Committee, said.

CRFA General Secretary Bernard Chiwiriwiri Harawa was also exited with the level of competition.

“The journey was good and we have watched exciting football,” Harawa said.

At the end of the competition, Santhe Admarc were crowned champions of the CRFA Unayo Division One League.

Santhe finished the league in style following their 3-0 victory over Balang’ombe Real Bombers.

Gift Mashoni scored a brace whereas Betaniko Khinda scored the other goal.

For being champions, Santhe received K2 million plus a trophy. Kamba pocketed K1.5 million whereas Amboya and Balang’ombe got K1 million and K700,000, respectively.

In addition, Santhe earned promotion to CRFA Chipiku Premier Division alongside Kamba and Amboya.