STUDLEY manager Mark Chambers has paid tribute to a mean central defence which has shipped just one goal in the last three games.

Since joining the Bees as manager two seasons ago, Chambers has earned a reputation for free-scoring football but said he was delighted with his defenders after the 0-0 draw against reigning Alliance champions Stourbridge at the weekend.

Studley have put down roots in seventh place and stubbornly refuse to be left behind by the big guns in the top six.

A morale-boosting 2-2 draw against a strong Hereford United side last week lifted spirits before the Amblecote clash and Chambers hopes to extend an impressive run of one defeat in nine matches at Pelsall Villa on Saturday (ko 3pm).

Studley knocked Pelsall out of the FA Vase on their patch ten days ago but there is a doubt over the weekend visit because of storm damage at the ground.