Bidding time ends for franchises in NSL

 By HENRY MORABANG 

THE race is on for franchise bidders to fill in eight available spots for the 2014 National Soccer League season.

NSL development manager Chris Brown confirmed the availability of the eight spots and said that the franchises that meet all the requirements will be asked to participate.

He said among affiliation requirements being endorsed by the Oceania Football Confederation was that franchises should encourage youth development. Brown said the NSL board will be meeting to discuss the proposed changes and its implication for the semi-professional competition.

Erema Gulf FC has paid its K5000 expression of interest (EOI) fee together with Madang, who are making a comeback after a three-year absence from the  NSL.

The EOIs deadline lapsed last Friday.

Teams that have bid include nine-time  champions Hekari United, Oro,  Gigira Laitepo, Admiralty, Eastern Star and Besta.

The National was told that Lae FC would be booted out of the competition unless it pays its fine for bringing the game into disrepute during the grand-final against Hekari United in Lae early this year.

There is uncertainty over FC Port Moresby’s attempt to re-enter the competition following their prolonged battle with the NSL board during the start of the last season.