National Rugby League side Parramatta Eels is "on a collision course" with its major sponsor after Dyldam "allegedly fell more than half a million dollars in arrears in its scheduled payments," according to Adrian Proszenko of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. The Eels and Dyldam are "likely to part company at the end of the season regardless of whether the property development and construction group meets a payment plan outlined by the club." Dyldam has been a corporate supporter of the Eels since '98, "with the company taking up the jersey sleeve sponsorship five years ago." Dyldam has naming rights honors and the pride of place on the Eels jersey in recent years, but "officials have become frustrated by their inability to meet their financial obligations in a timely fashion." A source close to the matter said, "They always pay, but they're always late." It is understood Dyldam "attempted to negotiate a reduction of its promised payments based on reputational damage to their brand via its association with the Eels." However, the club is "adamant it is entitled to the full amount agreed upon." Former Parramatta powerbrokers had "tolerated Dyldam's tardiness because they feared they had few other corporate alternatives available to them." However, temporary administrator Max Donnelly, who "parachuted in with an edict to get the blue and golds on track on and off the field, won't tolerate financial commitments not being met" (SMH, 8/21).
