STUDLEY can play kingmakers in another nailbiting Midland Alliance title race.

The sixth placed side are fast gaining ground on faltering Willenhall and take on league leaders Stourbridge tonight (Wednesday, ko 7.45pm) snow permitting.

The Glassboys went four points clear at the weekend but Bees boss Mark Chambers is hoping his resurgent side can put a spanner in the works after last week's impressive 4-0 demolition of Grosvenor Park.

Studley carved open enough chances against Grosvenor for leading scorer Craig Pountney to hit double figures and despite missing a host of chances the reigning Golden Boot winner still managed to net a hat-trick and climb to within two goals of Quorn's Luke Varney.

Pountney is a man on a mission after missing three months of the season through injury and is hoping to add to his tally this evening.

The Bees were left without a match at the weekend because of a frozen pitch at Causeway United's adopted home at The Grove.

With fellow Halesowen Town tenants West Bromwich Albion Reserves at home to Man Utd Reserves on Monday there is the suspicion the ground was being saved for a game which is expected to draw a healthy turnout in the Black Country.

Studley are just three points behind a fifth-placed Willenhall side who are still searching for a win this year and could draw level on points tonight.

Willenhall have two games in hand but Studley could keep the pressure on after a blank Saturday, by winning at Boldmere St Michaels next Tuesday (ko 7.30pm).

The only selection doubt is over former Boston Bulldogs midfielder Mat Rodney who is still awaiting international clearance from the USA.

If it comes through in time he is expected to be in the squad tonight.

Utility player Trevor Whittington has signed for Stratford League side the Sportsman's Arms as he continues his bid for match fitness.