Canterbury City’s run in the Kent Intermediate Challenge Shield came to an end at the quarter-final stage on Saturday, as late withdrawals and an injury played a part in the 2-1 defeat at Hollands & Blair.

Tony Jackson and Alex Hossick withdrew in the warm-up and Sam Baker went off within half an hour, causing disruption that the unbeaten Kent County League Premier Division club took advantage of.

The Gillingham side were strong in midfield and took the lead when City switched off at a free-kick allowing Lee Preston to put Blair ahead.

The visitors fought back to level on 65 minutes when Wayne Fittall’s powerful shot turned into a cross which Royston Gough converted.

Extra-time loomed but more poor defending allowed Blair to snatch a second goal which proved to be the winner.