Harriers set for big final

Victory over Northwich Victoria took the club's earnings to £38,000 from the competition this season after banking £16,000 for winning the semi-final.

Harriers will play Stevenage Borough in the final on May 12. The winners will win £50,000 if they lift the trophy, which is non-League's version of the FA Cup.

And if the final is confirmed for the new Wembley, they could attract a gate of 30,000, generating around £600,000 in gate receipts, of which they are entitled to a net 45 per cent.

Both finalists also receive £35,000 from Sky, which is broadcasting the game live.

Commercial spin-offs could take the club's earnings past the £500,000 mark.

The Football Association is set to confirm the final will take place at the rebuilt national stadium.

A decision is expected after this Saturday's under-21 international between England and Italy, one of two events staged before Wembley can receive a general safety certificate from Brent Council.

And with the final the first club game to be staged at the £757 million rebuilt stadium, huge interest from all over the world is expected.

An FA spokesman said today: "Tickets for the FA Cup final are never easy to get hold of so people will want to take in a similar occasion if they miss out. The Trophy would be ideal."

Harriers manager Mark Yates has revealed he might not lead the team out in the final. Yates has an FA charge pending relating to his alleged headbutt on Exeter player Lee Elam on February 17, which could lead to a touchline ban.

"I'm going to enjoy it whoever leads the team out," he said.

"I might allow someone else to lead them out."