By Andrew Gidley

Tunbridge Wells boss Martin Larkin says he is keeping one eye on the weather ahead of their FA Vase semi-final against Shildon on Saturday.

Wells are hoping for a crowd of around 2,000 for the semi-final, first leg tie, against Northern League Division 1 side Shildon at Culverden Stadium, with the return in the North East a week later.

Larkin said: "Rain is forecast and if it stays around for long, then it might be an issue. We want the game played and to make sure we are still in the tie going up there."

More than 1,100 fans saw Wells get past Hadleigh United 2-0 in the previous round and Larkin believes another four-figure gate can boost their chances again.

He said: "The players enjoyed the experience last time and gained energy from it, so I think the crowd has a big part to play.

"Both teams are happy with the tie because we have avoided the two big guns left, Spennymoor and Guernsey."

If the game is postponed, Wells could play away to Erith Town in a hastily re-arranged Kent Hurlimann League fixture instead this weekend.