RYAN Stevenson has admitted his last-day goal of the season contender at Doncaster Rovers was NOT the best of his career.

The �50,000 bargain-buy midfielder opened his Ipswich Town account in spectacular style – a 30-yard scorcher that cracked into the net off the underside of the bar.

Disgruntled Doncaster boss Dean Saunders questioned whether the ball had crossed the line – with the goal given by the assistant referee.

But the unfazed 28-year-old midfielder was just delighted to break his Blues deadlock in the final match of the season.

And while the fantastic 1,266 diehard Town fans inside the Keepmoat Stadium witnessed a late contender for the Blues’ best goal, Stevenson believes his rocket wasn’t his best.

He revealed: “I don’t mean to be big-headed, but I have scored a better goal to be fair – for Ayr United against Alloa.

“But playing at this level and scoring my first goal in the Championship is special for me and I will always remember that.

“When I am playing regularly, that’s what I want to do - that’s my game. I enjoy playing midfield and I enjoy getting forward and scoring goals. I had a bit of time but I only had one thought on my mind and that was to shoot.”

Stevenson’s 29th minute goal came in between Tommy Smith’s header and Jason Scotland’s second-half penalty during a high-scoring final game.

But relegated Rovers hit back with goals from Fabien Robert and Habib Beye to ensure Town were never comfortable and leave manager Paul Jewell cutting a frustrated figure at the end.

But the Blue Army, who ended up doing a conga in the stands while witnessing the return of Jimmy Bullard and the debut of schoolboy Byron Lawrence, ended up celebrating a victory which ensured Town avoided their worst league finish in 55 years.

Stevenson said: “The fans were brilliant. It is a long journey up - especially when there is not a lot to play for. But the numbers who came and the noise they made is a massive help to the players. It gives us something to go away and think about over the summer.”

While Blues boss Paul Jewell looks to bring in new additions as quickly as possible, Stevenson is already eyeing up a regular role next season.

He added: “When I signed, I wanted to score as quickly as possible. I didn’t want to go in the summer and not open my account. Now I can look forward to next season and try and score more.

“I have been impressed with everything about Ipswich. Coming down here, it was always going to take a bit of time to settle. But I have settled down quicker than I thought I would.

“I love the area and I have even had presents from fans for my baby. I am looking forward to next season, trying to play well and helping the team.”