MANAGER John Snape insists he will not settle for second best from Worcester City despite tomorrow’s final match being a dead rubber.

City bring down the curtain on an eventful first season in the Midland Football League with a trip to South Normanton Athletic (Saturday, 3pm).

Snape’s charges largely held on to the coattails of the Premier Division promotion contenders throughout but a tally of 11 draws scuppered hopes of a late charge for the top two.

And although fourth place is confirmed, the boss wants to see everyone give their all to finish on a high in Derbyshire.

“You are only as good as your last game and I expect everyone to perform to the best of their ability,” said Snape.

“There could be something resting on it for South Normanton and we owe it to the rest of the league as well as our supporters to be as competitive as possible right up until the end.

“We have gone out to do our best in every game this season and I do not expect that to change even though promotion is not an option for us.”

Snape confirmed he would play his strongest-available team but call-ups for the club’s under-21 prospects are likely through necessity.

Defender Jordan Stoddart and midfielder Nathan Hayward may come back into contention but striker Mark Danks still a doubt.

Influential playmaker Mat Birley is set to undergo specialist examination to get to the bottom of an ankle complaint, while loan goalkeeper Adam Przybek is on international duty.

Rookies Sean Dayus, Ethan Moran, Hamilton Chiwara and Ryan Mole could be involved as City thoughts start turning towards plans for next season.

“We will let the squad see it through until the end of the season but there are a few young lads already in the mix and we have no qualms with calling on them,” said Snape.

“We are looking to keep the solid foundations laid during this season and to add to that through our under-21 players or anyone who becomes available.

“At the start of this season we began a new era with a new squad. It has gradually come together, through adversity at times, and we have finished strongly.

“The biggest disappointment has to be the number of draws. Essentially, they cost us a shot at promotion.

“You never know what will happen in football. We have held a few tentative talks about next season but until we sit down with the lads individually, we will not know exactly what we’re working with.

“The summer is always an interesting time and we will find out who wants to be here.”