"We did not come here to make up the numbers and I thought everyone was absolutely magnificent.
"We could even have won the game. We did not come here to sit back and defend and everyone in the team has to be commended.
"United created chances, but so did we and we played good football with our defending very disciplined.
"I told the players beforehand to go out and apply themselves because it could be an important night in gaining some respect, not just from our fans but the country as a whole.
"But it is no good just doing it in one game. We have to do it on Monday and in all our remaining fixtures.
"Although it is very disappointing to be relegated, we need to build for the future and we have a fabulous bunch of lads at this club."
Ball had special praise for goalkeeper Kelvin Davis, who has endured a tough campaign since joining from Ipswich Town.
"We have to recognise Kelvin was outstanding but he has been fantastic since Christmas," Ball added.
"When you remember the way the supporters turned on him, he has shown immense strength of character to come back from that."