For that matter, the entire association runs on `borrowed' resources. The municipal water connection was cut off seven months back as water taxes were not paid. Now the only source of water available there is a bowdi (a well).

The 1999-2000 season got under way on June 27, but referees and match commissioners conducting the games have not been paid for the last three years. The outstanding amount has piled up to Rs 1.5 lakh. The Referees Association of Mumbai submitted applications to WIFA secretary Wali Mohammed, asking him to pay theamount. Wali promised Rs 51,000 by June 30 as part settlement. But he has failed to keep his words.

The pitiable condition of the association doesn't end there. The Bengal Mumbai Football Club (BMFC) are yet to receive the prize money for finishing as winners in the Rovers Cup and Super Division last year. This despite the league having a sponsor in Gulf Oil!

Insiders trace the cash crunch to a decision three years ago in the High Court which banned WIFA from renting out sections of the premises for weddings. Irate residents in the neighbourhood complained it was disturbing peace in the locality, and argued in court that the Cooperage (ground) was misusing a public facility.