Local S-League clubs desperate for money

SINGAPORE - There are nine local sides plying their trade in the 2010 Great Eastern-Yeo's S-League, and not one of them could prevent the three major domestic Cups on offer this season from falling into foreign hands.

French side Etoile FC snagged a double, becoming the first foreign outfit to win the S-League title to go along with their League Cup triumph.

On Sunday, Thailand's Bangkok Glass completed the foreign sweep when they beat Tampines Rovers 1-0 in the RHB Singapore Cup Final.

Over the last few seasons, it has been reported that the subsidy from the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) to each club has fallen from $600,000 in 2004 to $310,000 last year.

Said one source: "This is not the first time clubs are experiencing these problems but what causes concern now is that all other means the clubs are trying to bring in money are just not working.

When contacted last night, Geylang United coach Mike Wong said: "If we don't have sufficient funds, we can't attract players nor improve the quality of football."

SAFFC general manager Kok Wai Leong was philosophical over the issue of money.

"Losing three of three titles is too much to swallow, a few have said it's a wake up call - and it is. More money means better quality players, but where do we get money from?" he asked.

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