A concerned Shaun Goater has hinted that Bermuda Hogges could be forced to disband unless they are able to cut their expenditure.

For the second successive season the Hogges have run at a loss, largely due to having to cover the crippling travel and accommodation costs of opposing teams when they come to Bermuda.

And although Goater has stressed that the Hogges would endeavour to continue as a professional United Soccer League (USL) franchise, he concedes it is not a formality at this stage.

"For us to go ahead as a franchise our financial situation needs to improve," said the club president. "We would love to continue in the league but a lot of things will need to be addressed before next season. We do need the help and support of the USL as our situation is slightly different from the other US-based franchises."

Goater said the Hogges could comfortably cover the travel and accommodation costs of their own players, but should not be expected to pick up the bill for visiting teams.

"When we play away we pay for our flights and hotel, although the opposition always covers the first night," said Goater. "However, when teams come to us we pay for travel and the first two nights at the hotel. If we only had to pay for one night it would represent a huge saving for us.

"Although our attendances weren't great this season that's not what has hurt us the most financially. There will be a USL conference soon and these are some of the issues we will be looking to address."

On the field, Goater admitted that the Hogges' season had been a testing one, but believed he had learned a lot about the character of his players. He singled out the contributions of skipper Omar Shakir, Jelani Scott, Kevin Richards and Damon Ming who he said had shown plenty of appetite for the battle.

"When the going gets tough you learn a lot about your players and there are a few guys who I've been very impressed with," he said. "At times we've had to play two or three games in quick succession and the likes of Omar, Damon, Jelani and Kevin have really dug deep for us."

"Finally, I'd like to thank our supporters and primary sponsors ACE, Renaissance Re, Aspen Re and Bermuda Department of Tourism for sticking with us."

Bermuda Hogges finished ninth in the USL league table with 17 points. They won five matches and were just three points off the final play-off place.