DUDLEY Knights completed the last game of their debut season with an improved display as they lost 2-0 to Rugeley.

With their biggest squad of the season on a sunny Spring day, Sol Buckner’s side struggled to get to grips with a very difficult surface.

Makeshift midfielder Adam Pritchard almost opened the scoring from push back when Buckner raced into the D and slipped through a neat pass which the youngster hit wide.

The home side then sprang into action and laid siege on the Knights goal but could not find a way past keeper Marc Turner who was in inspired form once again.

On 20 minutes young defender James Wheeler had to go off for treatment to a cut lip.

The defence held firm until just before the break when an unmarked striker caught the defence out to open the scoring.

A second half reshuffle saw Buckner drop into midfield but he could not stop the onslaught as the hosts looked to kill the game off.

And they were gifted the chance on the hour when a great tackle by Jess Warren was deemed a short corner. The ensuing shot was then cruelly deflected onto the backboard.

Buckner urged his side forward and almost found the net when he dribbled past four defenders to see his shot kicked out by the keeper.

The skipper, who is leaving for a new life in Ireland on Sunday, said: “It has been an exciting rollercoaster of a season and an experience I will never forget.

“We have achieved what we set out to do 12 months ago and I hope my legacy will live on.

“Regardless of the results I have played with the best bunch of lads and know they will carry on and one day be a force to be reckoned with. I wish them every success for the future.”