World Footy News

The idea of an AFL premiership match being played in Singapore is a long, long way from being a reality, but news from the www.afl.com website suggests that the Brisbane Lions are looking at the option.

 

According to the AFL’s website, “THE BRISBANE Lions' financial woes and restrictive deal with their home stadium, the Gabba, have driven the club to pursue options for a home and away match overseas.

 

Lions officials have started investigating a viable international option which has taken their focus to the Singapore National Stadium.

 

 

The stadium, opened last year, has a capacity of 55,000 and has hosted soccer giants such as Juventus. It has the dimensions to extend to host an AFL match.

 The Lions are yet to formally put the proposal to the AFL.”

 

Should the concept get off the ground it would see a continuation of an international match journey for premiership points following on from the recent ANZAC Day matches played by St Kilda in New Zealand.

 

There are many miles to travel before the idea catches fire, not the least of which is the Lions finding a better long term deal at the ‘Gabba. Similarly, there may prove to be other viable options that present themselves as the Lions explore all ways of improving their financial situation. But a match in Singapore would certainly be a bold move and a further endorsement of international venues being capable of hosting premiership matches.

 

Throughout history there have been pre-season, post-season and exhibition matches played across the world. But the idea of playing matches overseas for premiership points is now being seen as a viable option for AFL teams to consider. Without doubt, this move would move the game a long way forward on the international scene.

 

World Footy News will keep a close eye on possible future developments.