Hmm what do Manukau United bring?
A quick glance through their facebook reveals they do a lot in the community, including partnering with refugee centres, tonnes of school visits and free coaching opportunities.
The other huge thing they bring is some diversity to the league. Both players and supporters. Bring in a shore team? great, another team from a rich, predominantly white community. One only needs to look at the vitriol directed toward Manukau in certain forums to see that having a bit of diversity is perhaps just what the league needs. Not all parents can afford $$$ for academies, coaching etc and it will take having a powerhouse club in South Auckland that brings in recognition and money to unlock the region and all of the potential it holds.
Firstly let me be very clear. I am also a sucker for some Fiji gold and a curry. A truly unique experience.
I also very much admire the work they are doing in the community.
However, it is my personal belief that the national league should be for the top teams in the country to compete in. Not to give people a leg up. I would much rather a consistently high performing team be given the opportunity.
For all the good things that Manukau United are doing, you must also understand the limitations they have. Neither of the two founding clubs (Manukau City and Mangere United) have a recent track record of consistency or producing young players. In fact if you really wanted to put the microscope on them they both have a history of being yo-yo clubs and rule breaking.
Until they can show some consistency (eg stay in the prem league for 5 or 6 years) this conversation should be put on hold.
This should not stop the community work or awesome catering.