confirmed that payments had been made to BFA officials during Bermuda's participation in last year's much-publicised World Cup campaign.

While Mr. Marshall would not be drawn on naming the recipients of the cash "gifts'', The Royal Gazette learned that the beneficiaries were former team manager Mr. Mark Trott and current BFA director Dr. Gerard Bean.

Mr. Marshall defended the actions of the BFA saying: "It was the wish of the affiliates that no one was to suffer hardship from our participation in the World Cup ... the players were only one facet.

"A lot of expenses were involved and a lot of sacrifices made by the executive committee.'' The total of the monetary awards is believed to be in the region of $5,000 with Mr. Trott said to have received $2,400 prior to the team leaving Bermuda for three away matches. Dr. Bean is believed to have accepted a cheque for $2,600 upon their return.

A third official, Mr. Elroy Ratteray, revealed yesterday that he had also applied for remuneration to the tune of $1,200, but later withdrew his request. Full story -- Page 21.