Madang in danger of missing out

By ISAAC LIRI
MADANG FC’s OFC Champions League campaign is uncertain, according to franchise board chairman Dr Miok Komolong.
Half the contingent that was scheduled to arrive in Auckland New Zealand last week did not go due to visa and accommodation issues.
“Our trip is delayed to Friday due to lack of funds so we are just hopeful but our boys (in Port Moresby) have not given up and have been training hard,” Dr Komolong said yesterday. “Madang FC coach Mauri Wasi left for Auckland yesterday (Monday) to sort out our accommodation.
“We are just waiting for a source that I cannot disclose who said to help us with some funds so once we get confirmation this afternoon then we will be able to confirm tomorrow,” Dr Komolong told The National.
During a successful fundraiser two weeks ago, the franchise raised about K30,000 which is still not enough to fund their trip and they have been seeking other forms of support. Komolong estimated that the football club was short of K100,000 mainly to cover their accommodation in Auckland.
“The fundraiser we had was a success but can only assist us with the upkeep of the club here in the country and not for our trip to New Zealand,” Komolong said.
“We have tried to ask around for help from the Madang provincial government and other corporate support but we have not been successful.
Madang FC’s participation in the OFC Champions League is crucial as it will guarantee two spots for PNG clubs in the OFC Champions League.
The Lae City Dwellers successfully took part in Group A of the OFC Champions League and finished second qualifying for the quarterfinals next month.
The Dwellers arrive in the country today (Wednesday).
Meanwhile, Madang FC are in Group C and are scheduled to play Lautoka FC of Fiji on Sunday, Auckland City of New Zealand on Feb 28 and AS Venus of Tahiti on March 3.