STUDLEY boss Keith Draper expects to be subjected to plenty of booing and hissing this Christmas.

But this has nothing to do with the pantomime season.

It's because Studley are heading to Atherstone this Saturday and their notorious 'Snake-Pit'.

Draper explained: "Atherstone are nicknamed The Adders, hence the Snake-Pit.

"It's a lively and hostile atmosphere at the best of times as Atherstone command a large following.

"But we have nothing to fear. We'll go there well prepared when we need to be tight and organised".

Draper is under no illusions of what to expect , especially as Atherstone put 13 goals past Uttoxeter Town last Saturday while Studley were left kicking their heels after their proposed trip to Coventry Alvis was called off owing to a frozen pitch.

Studley remain without injury-hit striker Gareth Evans but new recruit from Redditch Borough Billy Garvey is ready to make his debut.

Busy Studley then play hosts to improving Littleton on Boxing Day.

Draper said: "Littleton have really picked up since changing their manager.

"They are unbeaten in their last six games and have recruited really well. I know quite a few of their players and it's going to be a tough Christmas.

"We couldn't have picked two harder teams to play.

"But whatever happens over Christmas, it has been a fantastic year for Studley.

"We could have easily been relegated, but instead we've turned matters around and that is a credit to everyone at the club."