KHALSA came off second best in a clash with fellow title contenders after losing 3-1 at home to Lichfield in the Midland League Premier Division.
The home side were hoping to gain an advantage over their rivals whilst keeping any hopes of promotion alive as they went in search of a ninth win of the season.
However they got off to the worst possible start as Lichfield pounced on an early mistake to take the lead.
It took a while for Khalsa to get going but by the time they got themselves back into the match a second goal was conceded again before the break and the hosts had a mountain to climb.
Some harsh words were shared at half-time which seemed to get the hosts going and they were soon right back in it when Gurminder Singh Ghattaura put the finishing touch to a well-worked move which started inside the Khalsa half.
It was then end-to-end with both sides desperate to claim the win but Khalsa could not find that finishing touch and their promotion chances were dealt a huge blow when the visitors scored a third late on to come away with all three points.
Khalsa will be looking to bounce back this Saturday when they host Harborne.
