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 - the league's only overseas franchise - have run at a loss, largely due to having to cover additional expenses that the US-based teams are not required to.

Although Goater stressed that the Hogges would endeavour to continue as a professional outfit, he conceded it was not a formality in their current climate.

"For us to go ahead as a franchise our financial situation needs to improve - it's not a certainty," said the club president.

"We would love to continue in the league but a lot of things will need to be addressed before the start of next season.

"We do need the approval of the USL-D2 board, as our situation is slightly different from the other franchises.

"After all, we are the only team based overseas."

Goater said the Hogges could comfortably cover the travel and accommodation costs of their own players, but should not have to cover extra expenses during the season.

"Although our attendances weren't great this season that's not what has hurt us the most - it's been all the additional expenses that we have to pay but the other teams don't," he said.

"There will be a league conference soon and these are 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."

He added: "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 in ninth place in the league table with 17 points.

They won five matches, but were just three points off the final play-off position.