Babaga: Funding woes forced NSL to put off games

By ISAAC LIRI
The cancellation of National Soccer League games over the last two weeks was due to financial constraints, says manager Leslie Babaga.
Babaga said some franchises were struggling for funds to travel and complete their affiliation fees.
It is understood the same issue occurred last season which led to the competition ending without a grand final.
Babaga was unable to reveal which franchises were facing the predicament as it was an in-house matter.
“In the meantime, we are communicating with all franchises to comply with the requirements because we want the games to continue,” Babaga said.
He said they had been lenient on all franchises over the matter, but challenged them to comply as soon as possible.
“All matches that were cancelled over the last two weeks will be wash out matches now,” Babaga said.
“We understand that it has been very challenging but we want the football followers to know that we are doing everything we can to ensure the games get back on track.
“We are also looking at ways in which we can allow matches to continue, so we will make changes to the draws to accommodate the challenges we’re facing.”
He said round 12 would go ahead.
But he said the match in Madang would not take place due to safety reasons.
The clash between Madang FC and FC Momase will be a wash-out match, but the NSL board is expecting Toti City FC to play the Southern Strikers in Port Moresby and Buang FC to do battle with Besta United in Lae.
FC Morobe Wawens are on a bye this weekend.