BASINGSTOKE Town’s two more experienced players of last season’s team, captain David Ray and midfielder Matt Partridge, have both left the club, due the reduced budget operating this season.

Skipper Ray was the only player to survive from the Dragon’s National League South relegation side, having return back to the club in 2013.

Midfielder Partridge joined the side last season from League Two Newport County, having had two loan spells at the club. He has now signed for Hungerford.

Town manager Terry Brown paid tribute to the pair and said: “They are two great players, who can certainly play at a higher level. Neither of them wanted to leave, but we just do not have the money in the budget to afford to keep them. I wish both of them all the best for the future.”

The Dragons continue their pre-season at Farnborough this weekend, in a four team tournament - the O’Neills Cup.

The other three sides involved are the hosts, along with Fleet and Hartley Wintney.

There are two semi-finals on Saturday, followed on Sunday by a final at 3.30pm and a third and fourth place game which starts at 1pm.

Town face Fleet Town in their second semi-finals at 3.30pm.

Brown said: “I am looking to give all my players 90 minutes over the weekend. It is chance for the youngsters in the squad to grab a place in the first team, for the last two games left of pre-season.”

The other semi-final starts at 1pm, when Farnborough take on Hartley Wintney.

Town would like to invite ex-players to attend their opening league game against Frome on August 12, as their guests. Interested players from whatever era should contact Steve Letch on 07852 551512.