FFA CEO David Gallop has called on the PFA to put an end to the “PR stunt” tactics over the on-going CBA negotiations and ratify a deal.
Speaking at the Westfield W-League launch on Monday, Gallop criticised the PFA for stalling on the deal and using misinformation over details of their negotiations.
Gallop, who hoped the dispute would have been settled by now, claimed the deal is ready to be signed off on and urged the PFA to complete it.
He also used the launch to criticise the PFA’s handling of the Westfield Matildas situation, with the side cancelling last month’s two-match series against world champions USA due to the long-running pay dispute.
“I’ve got to say we were totally underwhelmed with the fact that we missed an opportunity to play the US [when the Matildas went on strike],” Gallop said.
“Unfortunately, our women’s team got dragged into a dispute around the payment for male professional players. It was most unfortunate.
“There were a number of PR stunts around that unfortunate event, but I am here to tell you that we are serious about this part of our business.
“We were not happy with what happened, particularly some misinformation where even the subject of motherhood got used against us.
"I can tell you now, we do not cut pregnant players. That was a nonsense that came out in the press.”
The dispute could still drag on for at least another fortnight, with further discussions expected between the parties later this week.
It’s understood the end of this month is seen as a realistic timetable for the new CBA to be implemented.