STUDLEY hitman Brian Powell has been ruled out for six weeks after a recurrence of the hamstring injury which forced him to miss the start of the season.

Powell, Bees' leading scorer for the past four seasons, smashed five goals in a 7-2 demolition of Blackheath Invensys in midweek to head the club scoring chart with seven.

But he tore the same troublesome hamstring 15 minutes from the end of Saturday's 1-1 derby draw with Alvechurch tenants Kings Heath.

He faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines but was set to start a five week suspension next week and BKL boss Mark Chambers is already preparing to bring in an unnamed Combination striker.

Last night's Birmingham Senior Cup clash against Dr Martens Western outfit Atherstone looked to be in doubt with the Beehive waterlogged.

Studley are looking to improve after being thrashed 6-1 by Tamworth on their Senior Cup debut last season but have a tough task against a resurgent Atherstone who have revived under the stewardship of former West Brom star Tony Grealish.

Stopper Craig Gillett, nursing two broken toes, was set to serve a one week suspension this week and will miss Saturday's trip to Southam (ko 2.45pm).

But midfielder Steve Duncan, out since pre-season with a back injury, played an hour for Sunday side Black Horse at the weekend and is hoping for a place on the bench on Saturday.

Striker Scott Crane is back after suspension, midfielder Paul Harmer is available after work commitments and left-sided midfielder Mark Neath has shaken off a calf problem.

Midfielder Ian Donegan is bidding to be back for Saturday after a hamstring injury.

Studley visit Handrahan Timbers on Wednesday (ko 7.45pm) and Bees boss Chambers is hoping to sign an unnamed utility player from a higher level.