A knife-toting thief disguised as a delivery man forced his way into a South San Francisco home on Tuesday, but ended up losing a battle with the resident, police said.

The victim told police the doorbell rang just after 10 a.m. in the 2200 block of Kenry Way. The suspect, described as a light-skinned man in his 20s, pretended to be making a delivery but then forced his way in when the victim opened the door, police said.

The suspect whipped out a knife and demanded cash, but cut himself during a brief struggle and fled with nothing. The victim suffered minor injuries during the brawl.

Police are searching for the violent burglar. He stood between 5-feet-8 and 5-feet-11, has a thin build, dark hair and was wearing a navy-colored baseball cap and black jacket and pants, police said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Officer Chon at (650) 877-8900.

maldax@sfexaminer.com