Soccer: Rufers stay on in Sky deal

By TERRY MADDAFORD

After weeks of speculation, the deal between the Football Kingz and Sky Television became unconditional last night.

In confirming the agreement to buy an 80 per cent interest in the fledgling soccer club, Sky chief executive Nate Smith also announced Wynton and Shane Rufer had been retained as coaches for the 2000-2001 National Soccer League season.

The priority is to appoint a chief executive and form a close working relationship with New Zealand Soccer, Soccer Australia and the Oceania Football Confederation to raise the sport's profile.

New Zealand Soccer chief executive Bill MacGowan said he was delighted the matter had finally been sorted out and looked forward to working with the club's new owners.