Association looking at ways to strengthen NSL

By ISAAC LIRI
Strengthening the National Soccer League (NSL) was one of the points discussed in an executive meeting by the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) on Friday.
PNGFA executives understand that the semi-professional competition had been operating without a naming rights sponsor for two years, with last season ending short of the grand final.
In the last three rounds, the NSL suffered some match cancellations.
After round 12 over the weekend, there are nine wash-out matches to be played and their dates are yet to be confirmed.
Acting president John Wesley Gonjuan said the NSL board were working to get potential sponsors on board to help complete the competition.
“We had to make some serious decisions at the beginning of the year to allow teams to join the National Soccer League,” Gonjuan said.
“The NSL board and management are working on a rescue package that will be able to help the competition complete the season.
“There are talks between PNGFA and the NSL board plus few private entities to join us as sponsors. As soon as those details come in place, we will be able to make that known.”
Gonjuan said the sponsorship between NSL and Telikom was not renewed last year.
NSL manager Leslie Babaga revealed last week that financial constraints were behind some matches being called off.
He confirmed yesterday that the round 13 triple header would proceed in Lae with Toti City FC taking on Besta PNG United, FC Morobe Wawens host Madang FC while Buang FC plays FC Momase.
Southern Strikers are on a bye.