A late goal prevented Oxford City Stars from ending their English National League South A Cup campaign on a high note as they drew 4-4 at home to Solihull Barons.

Although Peterborough Islanders captured the trophy last weekend, City, who were already guaranteed the runners-up spot, were keen to end their programme with a victory.

And leading 4-3 with four minutes to go, they were well on course until Andrew Howarth completed his hat-trick to restore parity.

Stars had been rocked on their heels when Howarth gave Solihull took a fifth-minute lead.

But Stars were soon level as a swift counter-attack saw Grant Bailey equalise following an assist from Alan Green.

Barons were starting to dominate, but despite having 16 shots on goal, they lacked a cutting edge.

Stars took the lead when Dean Francis and Kent Johnson combined to set up skipper Darren Elliott for the first of his double However, Barons equalised when Howarth grabbed his second.

Oxford suffered a blow when defender Andy Cox was sin-binned for a high stick, but it made little difference with Nick Oliver making it 3-2 after good work from Green.

But Barons did not give up with Richard Taylor making it all-square.

After Oliver was sin-binned for tripping, Stars again got their noses in front, with Elliott chipping home his second following Green's assist.

But Howarth's late leveller ensured the tie finished in stalemate.