STUDLEY were denied victory against Midland Combination Premier runaway leaders Brocton in Saturday's thrilling 2-2 draw.

The Bees became one of the few sides this season to slow down the table-toppers but if not for Sam Bell's 95th minute, they would have earned all three points.

Charisma Agbonlahor had fired Studley ahead at Brocton to earn them a deserved half-time lead.

But Ben Judd's unfortunate own goal had pegged them back.

Once against Studley responded impressively and Dan Carter fired home after good work by Richardo Richards.

But the game ended with a draw when Bell headed home.

Despite seeing two points disappeared late on, manager Paul Smith had reasons to be cheerful.

He said: "We were disappointed not to win the game.

"But a draw against Brocton is a good result, not many sides have taken any points off them.

"It was the best we've played all season but I think it's going to be hard to win the league.

"We're not out of it but it's going to be difficult to do it now.

"We missed a couple of big chances and Ben Judd was also unlucky to score an own goal.

"The ball hit a bobble and it came off his standing foot and flew into the goal."

Smith's side were set to tackle former club Earlswood on Tuesday night.

He had guided them to second last season before being lured to Studley.

The Bees face a busy week, going to Lichfield City next weekend (3pm ko) and Stafford Town on Tuesday (7.45pm ko).

Jovan Blake-Walker should have completed his two-match ban in mid-week so should be available for the trip to Lichfield.

Midfielder James Blake could be back in action just weeks after his mysteriously collapsed while playing for Studley against Coventry Copsewood.

Extensive medical tests ruled out serious concerns, although doctors are investigating migraines as a possibilty.

Smith said: "Nothing came up in his tests so we know there are no big problems.

"It's good to have him back."