Rangers, Strikers get Pro-League lifeline

Following a board meeting yesterday the League granted both Starworld Strikers and Superstar Rangers tomorrow, to submit documents indicating their financial support. Chief Executive Officer of the TT Pro League Dexter Skeene said, “The League has given the two teams a final reprieve to hand in some vital documentation regarding their finances. As a board we saw no problem in giving more time, since the transfer window has already been extended to March 31 to accommodate the new teams.” However Skeene stated, that the applications of both Starworld and Rangers are looking good and he does not expect any further hiccups. The Pro League is scheduled to kick-off on April 8.

Yesterday Skeene said if they do not get the ten teams they desire for this year’s competition, they will go with the number of clubs that they have.

Presently Rangers and Starworld Strikers are attempting to meet the requirements for entering the league.

The clubs must provide proof that they can pay — the players’ a salary for the year; an administrative and affiliation fee of $50,000; and have a proper youth development programme to include Under-14, 16 and 18 footballers; a bona fide home venue which is safe; and a proper administrative team structure.

Yesterday Rangers boss Richard Fakoory said his club has fallen short by half the amount needed but he is not giving up.

The team, which has dominated youth football in the Trinidad and Tobago over the years possess a strong youth programme as well as a structure worthy of emulation.
Fakoory said his club also comprise over 250 players from all age groups who are anxious to make their mark in the T&T Pro League for the first time.

Rangers finished fourth in the Sportworld National Superleague tournament last year.
Recently the league’s chairman Larry Romany said consideration would first have been given to the second and third place teams before the Rangers’ application could be entertained.

But yesterday Skeene told Newsday that WASA Clean & White and Crab Connection— who finished the Superleague in second and third place respectively— are reluctant to play in the tournament.

Rangers’ major concern of a playing facility is expected to be solved by the T&T Pro League’s initiative to work with the Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago (SCOTT) to upgrade community facilities and hand them over to the football clubs.

Rangers and the St Ann’s community and environs have won a battle for the historic President’s Ground which was earmarked for acquisition by the Prime Minister’s new residence.