It is now just one win in nine games for Birmingham City after they were deservedly beaten at Championship rivals Coventry City.
Despite making a bright start, the Blues found themselves a goal down on the half-hour mark as Callum O'Hare drew first blood for the hosts with a goal on only his second start after returning from a year-long absence with an ACL injury.
Only the brilliance of goalkeeper John Ruddy kept Wayne Rooney's side in the game as he produced a series of fine saves to deny the likes of Haji Wright, Ellis Simms and Milan van Ewijk either side of half-time.
But there was nothing the former Everton and Norwich City goalkeeper could do to deny O'Hare doubling his own tally and his side's lead with just under quarter of an hour remaining as the midfielder rounded a couple of weak challenges before firing into the top corner of Ruddy's net.
That was enough to kill off any hopes of an unlikely comeback and left Rooney's men sat seven points clear of the relegation zone with many of their rivals in the bottom half in action on Saturday afternoon. After another disappointing night for the Blues, BirminghamWorld hands out the player ratings from a below-par display against their Midlands rivals.
9. Siriki Dembele - 4
Wasteful in possession and not a night he will look back upon with pride. His dive for his booking summed it all up. | Getty Images
10. Jay Stansfield - 5
Just could not get into the game and was given little service. | Getty Images
11. Lukas Jutkiewicz - 5
Tried to give an outlet but suffered for a lack of service and support. | Getty Images
12. SUB: Oliver Burke (on for Miyoshi 70) - 6
Livened things up on the right and had a shot - which is more than can be said for some of his team-mates. | Getty Images