DESPITE a cup defeat and a crushing league loss to champions Orrell St James in recent weeks, Bury Broncos coach Dave Kelly is proud of the team spirit and togetherness his side showed throughout the 2015 campaign.

Having been overpowered 88-0 by the title winners a fortnight ago, underdogs Broncos – who finished sixth in North West Men's League Division Two – made life difficult for the high-fliers before eventually succumbing to a 20-6 defeat in the cup fixture on Saturday.

"I'm very proud to belong to this club," said Kelly, who is also celebrating after winning the prestigious national Community Rugby League Coach of the Year award.

"Every player from one to 17 was outstanding and although Broncos ended up losing, we were winning for 60 minutes of a fantastic game.

"I would like to thank all the lads who put their hands up to play, both this week and last week.

"The fact that we took a battering in the first game but still came this week shows the spirit in the camp.

"This was a game we could have won, and next season we must kick on to win these games and not be satisfied with gallant losses."

The Broncos competed well and deserved to lead at a half time through a Blake Roberts try and conversion

The second half was a closely-contested affair with both teams completing and and defending well.

However, Orrell scored on 60 minutes and converted to level the scores at 6-6.

Bury battled gallantly but fatigue set in and some tired defending allowed Orrell to extend their lead to 10-6.

And two late tries made for a flattering final scoreline.

n The Under-12s won their final game of the season when they beat Littleborough 26-12 on Sunday.