STUDLEY lost out in a 4-3 thriller at Heather St Johns to leave themselves languishing near the bottom of Midlands League One.

But new boss Keith Draper was delighted with the performance which saw Studley lead 3-2 at one stage thanks to goals from Gareth Edwards, Matt Ross and Dan Stokes.

Draper has made wholesale changes to the squad since taking charge last week.

He said: "The Kevin Kingham era has gone at Studley. Before taking charge, I've been watching Studley for the previous six to seven weeks and I knew the majority of players there weren't good enough at the time.

"I must have brought in 16 players since, while another 14 have gone out."

Draper drafted in several key players including central defenders Sam Delaney from Solihull Moors and Luke Hemmings who was previously skipper at Knowle.

He has also added Chelmsley Town striker Alex Knight and midfield man Jack McGinn from Cadbury's who all featured in the side which faced Heather St Johns.

Draper has also signed Keiran Nesbitt from Barwell but his seven days didn't go through in time for him to line up against Heather St Johns.

Busy Draper won't stop at that and plans more signings.

He has also revised his backroom staff. Mark Jones, who initially joined Studley from Cradley Town as joint manager with Draper has now left the club.

Consequently Draper has appointed Danny Dineen as his No.2, who will still continue to play while Vaughan Pearson has become assistant manager.

Draper added: "Vaughan has great experience from his time with Alvechurch and Blackwood, while Danny, a schoolteacher, is a popular choice with the players.

"I feel we have got the structure right and are now well placed to take Studley forward."

Life doesn't get any easier for Studley this Saturday as they travel to league leaders Leicester Road.

But Draper insists: "We are going there to compete and I will make sure the commitment and attitude is right."