SWINDON Town manager Kevin MacDonald spoke of his pride at his side's performance, despite a penalty shoot-out defeat at Brentford on Bank Holiday Monday.
Speaking to the media post-match, he offered his thoughts soon after the end of what had been a rollercoaster season for all concerned at The County Ground.
He said: "The fans have supported the team through thick and thin, it's been a fantastic effort. Two teams gave their all right the way throughout both games but
it wasn't to be.
"The character of the team has been fantastic all the way through the season. You saw that today, but the sending off turned the game. Nathan Byrne's dismissal was crucial because we would have probably won the game. As it was Brentford beat us on penalties.
"The players showed their desire all the way through and got back into the game. I was delighted with the way the players played,
for them and for the fans."
There was also a word of support for youngster Miles Storey, with the frontman seeing his penalty saved by Simon Moore.
"Miles showed a lot of character to step up there. He has only been back training with us for a few days but he showed great strength of character. I am proud of him, but someone had to miss.
"He is a centre-forward and wanted to take it. We now have to get ready for next season."
The manager admits there is much work to be done over the coming weeks as attentions turn to the 2013/14 season.
He said: "I will speak to the owners over the next few days and see what's going to happen. I expect to be here next season.
"There is a lot of business to be done in the coming weeks. We have several players out of contract and although no decisions have been made, we need to see what the finances are."
