Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale took the positives from the Grecians narrow 2-1 defeat to Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup.
Lee Holmes’ free kick wasn’t enough to secure the win for the Grecians as they exit the competition in the first round, as goals from Billy Clarke and Regan Charles-Cook made the difference for the away side.
Tis said: “Largely it was a really good performance. I thought it was a good game, but it feels like a bit of a waste of 70 minutes.”
The Grecians had managed to keep Karl Robinson’s attacking and expansive Charlton side out for 70 minutes with some excellent defensive work, and a couple of brilliant saves from City goalkeeper Christy Pym. As well as creating a host of chances themselves.
The City boss continued: “It was a really hard fought, disciplined 70 minutes and somehow we let it slip. We needed to be a little bit tighter.”
But despite falling behind, City did have opportunities to strengthen their lead, notably when Liam McAlinden went through on goal but was unable to find a way past Dillon Phillips.
Reuben Reid and Lloyd James also had opportunities to find the net, but were unable to find a way past a physical Athletic defence.
Tis continued: “When you get into those 1-0 moments you have to rely on discipline and sharing out the workload and being in the right place, and off the back of that you get those one or two passing breaks that can set you off.
"Liam and Reuben had those opportunities, Liam hit it very nicely, but it was a big moment.”
The Grecians will now look to pick themselves up as they prepare to travel to Swindon Town as they return to league action.