KINGS Heath's disappointing season continued when they crashed out of the Midland Combination Challenge Vase at the first hurdle.

Manager Sean Lawless said his side needed a run in the competition, their only remaining cup, to keep their faltering season alive.

But Handsworth Continental Star had other ideas in a 2-1 win over nine man Heath.

Kings' Scott Matthews was sent off and conceded the penalty which led to Star's opener when the ball hit his arm on the stroke of half time.

And despite Mark Cartwright's equaliser 20 minutes from time, the dismissal of Sammy Chatwin for an innocuous challenge proved too much and Star grabbed a winner.

"We have to have something to aim for," said Lawless.

"We are looking at a top six finish but that might be clutching at straws.

"It's an ideal time for us to throw some youngsters in but it's hard to get them."