General manager Justin Merritt said he was proud of Oxford City’s efforts this season, even though they ultimately missed out on a play-off place, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

City fought back for a 2-1 victory at Gainsborough Trinity on Saturday to stretch their unbeaten run to five games, but wins for Boston United and Guiseley ended their play-off challenge.

“We thought it might stretch for another game at least, but credit to Guiseley and to Boston, they both had great wins today,” said Merritt.

“The play-off positions are played over 42 games, not over a few and we’ve let too many points slip by over the course of the season.

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But from where we were to where we are, I think we’ve learnt a huge amount.”

And Merritt has already begun planning for next season’s campaign.

“We’ve got to improve and we know that,” he said.

“We’ve conceded over 60 goals and teams at the top of the league don’t do that.

“There’s a lot to be proud of, but also there’s a lot of building to do in terms of strengthening our side and our existing players and bringing in some new