A LACKLUSTRE Bemerton Heath Harlequins slipped to a third successive defeat in Sydenhams Wessex Premier on Valentine's Day.

Dan Mason scored his 35th goal and Sholing’s 100th of the league and cup campaign in a 1-0 victory.

A busy night for referee Josh Osofa saw five Harlequins players yellow-carded and Jake Burgess dismissed on 32 minutes following a tangle with Marvin McLean.

Bemerton skipper Richard Jackson and Sam Griffin had been cautioned in a scrappy opening period – Griffin’s challenge on Corey Cherrett resulting in the Sholing man having to bow out after treatment.

Burgess’ dismissal followed before Sholing defender Dan Miller also went into Mr Osofa’s book.

Bemerton’s ten men were finally broken on 55 minutes when Mason was hauled down and got up to take the penalty. Heath ’keeper Jason Collins guessed the right way, but could only help the ball into the net.

Greg Horlock, Elliott Cross and Jordan Cole all added to Bemerton’s yellow card collection as Sholing saw out their fifth straight victory in all competitions.

Despite the defeat, boss Graham Kemp lauded his troops' endeavour.