Bandari scrap membership fee, fans to watch home ties for free

Bandari FC fans celebrates after thir team scored a second goal against KCB FC as they played in a KPL match at the Mombasa Stadium, March 25, 2015. Bandari FC won 3-1. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

Bandari Football Club has scrapped membership fees for supporters in their new drive to attract support from all over the country. In recent weeks, the Kenyan Premier League side, which is sponsored by Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), has also been allowing fans to access Mbaraki Sports Club and Mombasa County Stadium free of charge.

“What we are looking at is the big turnout of fans to support Bandari,” said the Club Members’ Chairman Ernest Mbalanya.

In an interview yesterday, Mbalanya said the Sh1,000 membership subscription fee has been scrapped and fans can register for free.

“We have contracted several people, who will be doing free registration to willing fans at all our home matches. Those interested in joining the Members Club need to provide their details of their names, identification number and cellphone contacts,” said Mbalanya, who also doubles as the club’s Media Liaison Officer.

He said the free membership registration is aimed at attracting more members into the club.

“We want to attract supporters from all walks of life to reflect the multi-cultural face of the Mombasa community,” the official said.

At the same time, Mbalanya has urged Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to carry out workshops for referees especially those handling the Premier League.

“Of late, some referees have been officiating in a manner, which leaves a lot to be desired. They need refresher courses. The upcoming talent stands to be demoralized through the biased refereeing,” Mr Mbalanya added.

Bandari cried foul last week after Western Stima were awarded a penalty, which they termed dubious which saw the coastal boys loose the tie 1-0. Bandari play AFC Leopards on Tuesday at the Mombasa County Stadium.

-enzioka@standardmedia.