Saturday's Weald of Kent Charity Cup defeat was Canterbury's fourth in succession. Picture: David Mullaney

Canterbury City decided to take on Lydd in the Weald of Kent Charity Cup at Hersden without several of their regular first team players and suffered the consequences, losing their fourth successive game 2-1.

However, they had every reason to feel confident after scoring 21 goals against the same opponents last season when Lydd were relegated while City were champions.

City manager Dave Fairclough said: "The fans will be concerned about our recent defeats but I was pleased with the performance, especially the young players."

City took the lead after 17 minutes when Mark Rook’s free-kick found the net. A second goal would surely have sealed their progress into the third round but two moments of failed concentration cost them.

With 13 minutes remaining, a back pass left keeper Danny Wrench
not knowing whether to come out to attempt an interception or stay put. He chose the latter and David Law equalised.

Then, two minutes later, Lydd grabbed the winner when Bill Briffitt scored.