Sunderland AFC Under-21s exited the Premier League Cup following a late defeat to Nottingham Forest. Full-back Oli Bainbridge described it as a "learning curve" for his side.
"Look we've given everything but sometimes you need a bit more experience to manage the game", Bainbridge explained.
The Lads took the lead through Joe Ryder in the first half but a double from Kyle McAdam, including the winner in extra time, sealed the contest for the hosts.
"You've got to take the positives, there a lot of U18 players who have made the step-up and are competing at a new level for the first time.
"The goal has come from something we have worked on in training and it just shows the hardwork that goes in everyday."
The 19-year-old has enjoyed a recent run in the side and has been rewarded with training sessions around the first-team players.
"Sometimes certain circumstances put you in the side, or one good performance becomes two and so on.
"I am enjoying my football at the moment, I just want to give my all for Sunderland AFC."