FORMER Liverpool and Coventry star David Burrows has been the inspiration behind Studley's mean defence this season.

The Bees climbed up to fourth in the Midland Football Alliance following their 1-0 victory over high-flying Bridgnorth on Saturday which then secured them the best defence in the league, conceding just 21 goals in 22 games.

And Studley assistant boss Nicky Cross has revealed for the first time the impact Burrows has had at The Beehive since his arrival in the summer.

Cross has confirmed, though, that Studley are preparing to go into the second half of the campaign without the ex-Anfield favourite who is moving to France to live.

"We tried to persuade him to stay but with no luck," revealed ex-West Brom and Port Vale man Cross.

"He has been an inspiration to a lot of our players at the club since he's been here and they have simply become better players for it.

"Last season, we never had any problems scoring goals but we leaked too many in at the back. It's something we've looked at but it's also no coincidence that we've let in so few goals so far this season with Dave around."

Cross and manager Mark Chambers are keen to play down any championship talk, despite being just four points behind new leaders Stratford with a game in hand.

Instead all focus will back on the third round FA Vase home tie with Leicestershire Senior League outfit Blaby & Whetstone Athletic at The Beehive this Saturday (3pm).

Studley could cash in to the tune of £1,200 after beating Mickleover Sports in a replay earlier this month and Cross added: "It's a really good competition to be involved in and, of course, we'd all love to go on a cup run.

"We've got a great chance to reach the last 32 and that in itself brings rewards, not least financially."

Barring any injuries picked up at third-placed Rocester last night (Tuesday), the Bees have a fully-fit squad to chose from for their Vase encounter.