KARL Robinson was proud of Oxford United’s attitude as they fought on into the final seconds of the season.

The Sky Bet League One campaign finished with a first defeat in ten games as the U’s lost 3-1 at Luton Town.

It secured the title for their hosts, but the visitors did not go down quietly.

After falling 2-0 behind early in the second half there was a risk of being rolled over.

But instead a double attacking change provoked a response, with Luke Garbutt pulling a goal back.

READ MORE: Jamie Mackie believes Luton clash was good advert for League One

United were on top for a spell and even after Luton’s third goal the away side were continuing to push and Robinson – whose side have been safe from relegation for a month – was pleased with the application on show.

He said: “It’s just typical of the way we are – right until the end we were trying to win.

“I was still fighting referees and all sorts.

“There was nothing on it for us, but I don’t think we’ve given a bad account of ourselves over the last few weeks.

“We played OK, we moved the ball better than them at times. It didn’t look like there was a gulf in positions (between the sides).

“It’s all about playing and giving it a good go. I thought when we made the changes we looked a very good team.

“We could have got it back to 2-2, if Browney had scored that it would have been fantastic for us, but it wasn’t to be unfortunately.”

He added: “Congratulations to Luton for winning the league – 46 games is a long time and it’s a hard process. It’s a special place to be.

“We won’t be back here next year, but we’ll take stock and build for the future.”

When it came to looking ahead, Robinson pointed to an 18-man squad which had eight players aged 23 or under.

The youngest was Nico Jones, the 17-year-old centre back, who was featuring for the third game running.

Fielding such a young player on a big occasion was a gamble, but the U’s boss, who could have played the experienced John Mousinho once Rob Dickie was ruled out with illness, was pleased with the response.

He said: “I thought he stood up to it well, even though he made mistakes.

“There was an awful lot to take from that.

“He played against (John) Marquis last week and (James) Collins this week and has done all right.

“The goals weren’t his fault, so I’m pleased with him.”