The split-season model "may come to work" in the A-League, according to Sebastian Hassett of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. The question is being considered by Football Federation Australia in a bid to "become a more enticing television product, and to resolve the question of 'meaningless' games" in the A-League. It could not happen this season, "or probably even the year after," but with FFA "seeking to create a point of difference ahead of the next round of television rights negotiations, nothing is off-limits in the years thereafter." Perhaps the "most interesting option being canvassed is the split-season idea, known as 'Apertura' and 'Clausura.'" But "perhaps most strikingly" for Australia, the dual-league structure has just been "introduced into two new markets: Japan adopted it this year and it has also been embraced" by the North American Soccer League. In particular, Australian officials will be "watching closely to see what happens in Japan and whether the concept is a hit with fans, broadcasters and clubs." Under the current model of the A-League, the season could be "split into two campaigns, albeit of an unequal number, as there are presently 27 rounds" (SMH, 7/12).
