STUDLEY boss Mark Chambers was set to be without two of his first choice strikers for the much-postponed Birmingham Senior Cup clash against Atherstone last night (Tuesday).

Goal machine Brian Powell was sitting out the final week of a 35 day suspension and recent arrival Jamie Bayley was cup-tied after appearing for Highgate earlier in the competition.

But hopes were high the tie could at last be staged after a number of postponements prompted by wet weather with the latest last Tuesday.

Chambers was frustrated by the weather again at the weekend after the match official took the decision to call off the match against visiting Blackheath at lunchtime.

"The chairman rolled the pitch in the morning and we thought it was playable by the early afternoon," said Chambers.

"Blackheath agreed when they arrived but the ref was very insistent, I've certainly played on a lot worse."

The Bees were left kicking their heels but were delighted to learn title-rivals Pershore had thrown away a three goal lead to draw 3-3 with Northfield Town.

BKL face their biggest test of the season at second-placed Nuneaton Griffs on Saturday (ko 2.45pm).

Griffs are three points behind with two games in hand and with Studley enjoying superior goal difference a win for the Bees would put them clear of another of their rivals.

Last year's Golden Boot winner Powell will be available for the Boxing day visit of neighbours Alvechurch (ko 11.30am).