FFA, a bad sell

Opinions / Analysis

FIJI Football Association might think they played us. But in reality, they only played themselves out of those who are the game.

If everything about FFA is in line with FIFA then play it.

But, do they.

Suva stand

The stand is with Suva’s BOG qualification as hosts.

Under FIFA rule, the host, the very World Cup format FFA is using, has the country provide state of the art training facilities, billeting, the hotel transfer, security and medical personnel are some of the hosting requirements.

None of which Suva is providing and so what is behind the drum up about hosts automatic entry.

FFA needs to be more clear on its intentions and just quit using FIFA as a shield for its twisted narrative for the ever bazaar-like events.

FIFA versus FFA

FIFA pays member federations for sending their national teams to the World Cup tournaments.

The specific amount paid to each federation varies based on a number of factors, including the federation's size.

Generally, the payments are intended to cover the costs associated with participating.

How much if anything does FFA pay to the participating districts for the Battle of the Giants.

Financial difficulty

Sadly, all districts in the county are donor and sponsor reliant.

The shortfall is rife, which leads them to fundraisers.

The most common is through sale of BBQ, and beverages, promotions of which are readily on social media sites, the funds garnered doesn’t suffice the cost for the two weekend event.

Sponsorship not lucrative

The far and few sponsorships are out of goodness, who put their money to help alleviate financial hardships faced by the districts.

Many businesses refuse to put their last buck on football as it isn't something that promotes and or injects top dollar in their coffers.

90 minute game

If everything else is inline with FIFA, then why isn't there a mandatory 72 hours between matches.

While the world governing body puts special emphasis on performance and recovery, FFA isn’t at all about performance less the health and safety.

Injuries, fatigue and recovery isn’t a priority for FFA, who, besides Abdul Mannan, who just last week got appointed to the board hadn't kicked a ball a day in their lives.

The treble district, Rewa, Labasa and Nasinu and national team captain’s inclusion is a breath of fresh hope.

But is he for football or the bandwagon, for time is the master.

Bad run organization

Unless the FFA cures all ills associated, the use of the  in-line with Fifa laws, the gamers' aren’t ready to buy what is being sold.

FFA is acting more like a bully rather than the benevolent steward which it should strive to become.