The new outfits are Yamaros FC and Simla FC, both from Port Moresby, and Morobe United, which is based in Lae.
Seven sides took part in last season’s National Soccer League – namely Hekari United, Eastern Stars, Besta PNG United FC, Gigira Laitepo Central, Tukoko University, Bulolo United and Petro Souths – but not all have re-submitted their applications and could therefore not be involved in the next edition.
Papua New Guinea Football Association Vice-President John Kapi Natto, who acts as chairman for the National Soccer League board, says the upcoming season is likely to consist of no more than seven teams, meaning several of the incumbents may miss out if all three new sides follow through on their intentions to join the league.
The new season is expected to start in the second week of January and run through until May.
The winner will earn the right to represent Papua New Guinea in the 2014 edition of the OFC Champions League.
Beginning with five franchises, the National Soccer League was launched in 2006 to become the country’s first ever semi-professional football competition. Its aim was to lift the standard of football in Papua New Guinea and, in turn, produce a better level of performance at OFC and other international tournaments.
It has done just that, growing to the current seven sides and seeing the remarkable rise of Hekari United, who defied all odds to become the first Oceania club from outside New Zealand or Australia to win the OFC Champions League and qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup in 2010.
Expressions of interest have also been sought for the new season of the Ox & Palm National Women’s Soccer League.
Bara, Poro and PNG Power have submitted their requests to be involved in the Lae zone while Mungkas, Yamaros and University have put their hands up for the Port Moresby zone.
For more on Papua New Guinea football go to www.pngfootball.com.pg

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