I think Matt *almost* makes some good points but the fact that the A-League will be awarded more ACL places even with us there kind of kills his whole justification for writing the hate-piece.
btw he's alright in real life and personal attacks etc. aren't really needed - everyone has an opinion and that is fine (unless the guys name is Diego's Son) I can see why some Aussies get their panties in a twist about us but what annoys me is that they usually fabricate reasons as to why we are so detrimental for the league.
This was the best post in that 442 thread, I think, and Matt would do well to take a leaf out of this guys book instead of writing Andrew Bolt-esque blogs.
"CoryNQ" wrote:
agree with aspects of both sides of the argument.
It's impossible to suggest that the Phoenix have not had a positive impact on the A-League - they're one of the success stories of last season. Unfortunately their value before then was debateable; the Kingz were a laughing stock.
On the flipside, Matt is right in suggesting that our insistence on helping a club from outside our confederation isn't damaging our image with the AFC. Although I don't really see how it damages the AFC per se, it's certainly not something they want us doing - the wording of their 'acknowledgement' indicates that very strongly.
So, where is the middle ground? I think FFA is right in keeping the Phoenix (at least for the short term) as they're strong, well-run club that contribues a lot to the A-League at a time when it's genuinely needed. FIFA obviously like us helping out the OFC as they've come in to bat for the FFA on the issue of the licence. Hopefully our continued assistance with NZF and the OFC pays off when voting comes for the 2022 World Cup.
The ACL, as a tournament, isn't suited to our current football climate. It's played after our season proper, and heavily favours teams who can flash the cash and sign the best teams - both huge factors in a tournament like this. So I think it makes sense that we're supporting a club that supports the A-League.
In the short term I don't see any reason to get rid of the Phoenix. In the long term, it depends on what happens to the OFC. If they are absorbed by AFC then the problem goes away. If not then the FFA will need to periodically reassess what is best for its flagship, the A-League. For now, what's best is the keeping the Phoenix.
valeo2010-08-03 11:39:47