Canterbury put the Shelford defence under pressure during their 31-22 home defeat. Picture: Phil Houghton

A poor second-half display saw Canterbury suffer their seventh successive National 2 South defeat with a 31-22 reverse at home to Shelford on Saturday.

Canterbury led 17-15 at half-time, but the visitors dominated the second half to claim the points.

Canterbury’s other points came with first-half tries from Pete Kelly and Tom Rogers, both converted by Nick Dangerfield, who also kicked a penalty to put the home side in front.

Shelford’s pack took charge in the loose and line-out after the break, with Canterbury struggling to make an impression. They conceded 16 points, with winger Michael Melford’s last-minute try a consolation.

It leaves Canterbury still looking for their first win of 2011, having lost 10 of their last 12 league games.