By Charlie Dumavi
In response to recent concerns, Gordon Manub, the general secretary of the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), has brushed aside allegations of teams participating in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) without having paid their affiliation fees. These allegations have reportedly disrupted the smooth progress of the competition.
Manub asserted that all teams, with the exception of player registration fees, have fulfilled their financial obligations as anticipated.
He explained that the competition management is actively collaborating with the clubs to address the player registration matter. Additionally, he clarified that the existing teams have committed to a two-year involvement in the league before new expressions of interest will be sought from other potential clubs.
Manub clarified: “Every team has indeed submitted their fees. There are certain fees unrelated to the initial affiliation fees that we are presently addressing. Primarily, it pertains to player registration across all teams.”
He further elucidated that delays in the competition schedule and match rescheduling are not stemming from funding issues but rather from logistical challenges regarding securing flights with Air Niugini for teams to participate in their home and away games.
“We’ve encountered some setbacks in our draws and games due to our inability to finalize flights or confirm flight schedules with Air Niugini,” Manub stated.
“Air Niugini is our designated transport provider, and they have been collaborating closely with us to facilitate flights. Regrettably, we are not the sole travelers navigating the country, especially to locations like Lae, Madang, and Port Moresby.”
Manub made these remarks following the rescheduling of round six matches in Port Moresby, which led to confusion among spectators.
While the round six matches held in other centers proceeded smoothly, those in Port Moresby were subject to last-minute adjustments. For instance, the Hekari United FC and Morobe Wawens match was postponed from its scheduled 3pm kick-off to 6pm, while the game between Gulf Komara and Madang FC was indefinitely rescheduled to the end of the current round.
Manub expressed his apologies to the football spectators who play a pivotal role in the country’s football scene.
He acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the scheduling changes and affirmed his commitment to better cater to the needs of the spectators and football enthusiasts in Port Moresby and across the nation.
He said the benefits of afternoon matches, which also provide teams with valuable experience in playing under floodlights, an essential aspect when representing Papua New Guinea in international tournaments.
