Devastated striker Stuart King says he wants to ‘redeem’ himself at Faversham by firing the club to promotion next season.

King’s penalty miss in Tuesday night’s play-off semi-final shootout against Merstham proved crucial, with the Moatsiders winning 5-4 on spot-kicks to book a trip to Folkestone – one of King’s former sides – in Saturday’s Ryman League, Division 1 South play-off final.

The 27-year-old, who only joined the club in March after leaving Herne Bay, was signed as the final piece of a promotion-winning squad, however a cruel twist of fate saw him contribute to the season ending sooner than many had expected.

King admitted: “I am gutted – devastated. I am normally reliable from penalties. It was not a bad penalty, though I wouldn’t say it was good, either. The keeper managed to save it but there were worse penalties that went in.

“I can take any criticism, though. I have broad shoulders, it won’t affect me and I’ll still be there to put my hand-up for one next time.”

King apologised to his team-mates after the game and asked boss Ray Turner to give him the chance to fire them to the title next season, avoiding a play-off return for the third time in four seasons.

He said: “Football can be a cruel game but you have to get on with things. I was gutted and I apologised to the lads, although they said there was nothing to apologise for.

“I am committed to the club. I want to be a part of it next season. I told Ray that I’m so sorry, and if they want me, if they’ll let me, then I want to redeem myself next season.”