Elliott Dickman admitted Sunderland under-18s must learn to be more ruthless as he bowed out of the youth team on Saturday.
The young Black Cats were defeated 5-2 at home to Manchester United despite creating a host of chances in the opening period.
Ben Kimpioka cancelled out United’s opener before the visitors regained their lead prior to the break after Michael Woud failed to keep out a 20 yard free-kick.
The Red Devils turned the screw after the restart and lapse defending saw the lads fall further behind, which meant Jacob Young’s later looping header counted for nothing.
Speaking to safc.com, Dickman insisted improvements must be made and the scholars need to learn fast if they are to step up to the development team.
“There have been lots of times this season when we have had some good bits in games and some bad bits as well,” he said.
“I thought in the first half against Manchester United we made it tough and we made it competitive.
“We had the better chances and I don’t think they created a great deal but we gave away two very soft goals.
“It something the lads need to be better at and we have got to show that resilience, grit and determination to prevent goals a lot, lot better,” he continued.
“I don’t want to get too negative because I thought in the first half we had the better chances and I thought we were well in the game.”
