The Bermuda Football Association could fall short of their $4 million target needed to accomplish their six-year international programme unless the business sector steps forward and lends additonal financial assistance.

President Neville Tyrrell remains hopeful that they will eventually reach that goal, but yesterday admittted that they lingered well behind their target after two years.

"We haven't actually hit the mark at each stage that we wanted and we have had to make some adjustments. We have had to be less ambitious and not have a game at international level a month. We've been forced to use the money that we have on just sending our teams to tournaments. But I heard a famous local person say that hope is immediate while change is gradual and that's my philosophy right now.'' It was two years ago at a celebrated gathering at Government House when the BFA unveiled an elaborate presentation designed to get the Island's top sport back on track -- at a whopping cost of $4 million over a six year period.

Several businesses had representatives attend the function and there was some indication that they would be reacting favourably.

However, privately, BFA officials are said to be surprised by the moderate response with just a few of the larger companies bothering to make significant contributions -- headed by the Bank of Bermuda's donation of $200,000 and Centre Re Insurance's injection of $100,000.

Tyrrell was yesterday refusing to divulge what amount had been received.

However he pointed to this week's move by former president Charles Marshall's business to inject a significant sum for the upgrading of referees as something that may inspire others to follow.

"I think that exercise was significant in that he gave us a seal of approval for what we are attempting to do for this small community,'' he said.

"If we can get this sort of support from other businesses then the programme and our country will be destined for success.'' It is clear, however, that Tyrrell is upset at having appeal to the business sector once again to support the six year plan.

"I would be rather foolish to say that I was dissatisfied because it would mean that I was not satisfied with those who have come on board. But I am certainly satisfied with those who have come on board like the Bank of Bermuda, Centre Re, ACE Insurance, and Cable and Wireless among others.

"If there is any disappointment I have it's that there haven't been enough of those type of people coming on board basically to give us that support. I believe they are out there but I just believe that they need a little more urging.''