Lae City paid fees in full, says Gunemba

By ISAAC LIRI
LAE City Dwellers coach Peter Gunemba clarified yesterday that the National Soccer League franchise had paid its fees for the season in full.
During the announcement of the 2016 NSL board in April this year, it was revealed that the affiliation fee was K80,000 and nomination fee was K5000. Gunemba said yesterday in an interview that an article published in The National yesterday stating that Lae City paid their dues only after claiming the minor premiership last month was misleading.
“I want to clear the air that we didn’t pay our fees depending on when the funds were released to us,” Gunemba said.
“We paid our nomination fee and also paid the first K40,000 of the affiliation fee before the first five games of round one ended.
“The outstanding K40,000 of the affiliation fee was paid two games before we won the minor premiership.
“I want to make it clear that we were not free-riding. We were confident we would finish off the season strongly. We want our sponsors to know that we were transparent so that they will have confidence in us.”
Despite the NSL finals being cancelled by the board, Gunemba said their franchise accepted the decision with understanding of the season’s bumpy run.
However, he suggested that it would be better if his franchise was rewarded the minor premiership.
He also stated that the NSL board should consider the players’ interest and provide rewards such as the golden boot, player-of-the-year and other consolation awards for their commitment and dedication this season.
Lae City now set their sights on taking part in the OFC Champions League next year.