Sholing boss Diaper rues injuries ahead of Vase clash

Sholing FC manager Dave Diaper has hailed his side ahead of The FA Vase clash with Larkhall Athletic - but admits losing two key players is a blow.

Imposing defenders Lee Bright and Pete Castle will miss The Fifth Round tie at the Silverlake Arena and Diaper told TheFA.Com: "Yes it's a big blow. Both are 6ft 3in players who are not only good defensively but can cause problems offensively in the other penalty area.

"But we've got to get on with it as it's going to be a tough game as they're flying high in their division."

Both teams are in superb form going into what promises to be a tight match in Hampshire.

Sholing are second in the Sydenham's Football League Premier Division having just lost once all season - they also have five games in hand on leaders Winchester City - while Larkhall are top of the Toolstation Western Football League Premier Division having not tasted defeat in the league so far.

Diaper said: "We are well aware of what is in front of us - their record is impeccable. But we have been on a fine run ourselves.

"There's pressure on them as they are undefeated but in the Cup, who knows?

"There's bound to be some nerves early doors but our form has been pretty good. Our only concern really is the weather."

The elements have indeed been a problem as Sholing have been left playing catch up in the league following a raft of postponements and The Boatmen will hope there will be no signs of rustiness come Saturday.

This is the furthest the Hampshire club have gone in the competition and with Wembley a tantalising three matches away, Diaper added: "We reached the Fourth Round once so we're excited to have got this far.

"Obviously Wembley is very special and for some of these players it may be their last chance to get there but we're not thinking about that.

"We're not getting carried away as we're not there yet.  We're enjoying it and it's important financially to us. Everyone wants to get to the latter stages."