Tonbridge’s weather-worn pitch at Longmead could stop promotion-cashing Bognor Regis in their tracks this weekend.

Bognor like to play a passing game but conditions underfoot are likely to dictate a different sort of contest in Saturday's Ryman League Premier Division match.

Tonbridge manager Steve McKimm said: "It’s going to be difficult on our pitch. It’s not the best at the moment, hence why we’re not doing that. It’s a difficult pitch to play football on.

"We had them watched last weekend (Bognor beat Dulwich 4-0) and at East Thurrock (on Tuesday) and know they’re dangerous because they’re pushing for a play-off spot.

"They’re playing the same way we were at the start of the season, with one player out wide and one tucked in. They’re an energetic, young team and we’ve got to match them."

Tonbridge are nine points clear of the drop zone after a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Harrow last weekend, while ninth-placed Bognor are involved in a seven-way tussle for the final play-off place.

McKimm said: "Several teams can still get there and it’s tight with 10 games left. But my only concern is getting the points we need to keep us in the league for next year."

Laurence Ball should be fit, while Jon Heath and Jerrome Sobers are both close to returning from long-term injuries.

Read the full story in the Kent Messenger.