Head Coach Nelson Jardim admitted his side were second best after they were defeated 3-0 by Reading on Tuesday night.
Three second-half goals courtesy of Harvey Knibbs (2) and Jayden Wareham were enough to seal the Royals' progression into the knockout stages of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy
“It was obvious that the better team won tonight,” said Jardim.
“We did create a couple of chances in the first-half but we couldn’t take them. Beginning of the game we had some good spells, but we need to make sure we do that more often and for longer periods in the game.
“The only way to face these teams where you feel they definitely are better, is to be better yourselves. To be more brave and be better on the ball.
“We did that in spells in the first half but we didn’t carry it on in the second half which saw them grow into the game. We struggled towards the end.”
Jardim made seven changes to his starting lineup for the tie in Berkshire, with one of the key inclusions being Shane McLoughlin, who made his first start in two months after recovering from a knee injury.
McLoughlin’s return provided a much-needed boost to the team, alongside the return of Joe Thomas, who made his first EFL start of the season after a long-term injury layoff.
“We made plenty of changes which was our objective and it was good to see some people get the minutes they needed,”added Jardim.
“It was excellent to see Shane back, such an important player for us. Clarke and Joe Thomas too, who I thought did well.
“Shane is a big player, a senior player for us and it was great to have him back from the start. Today was about getting him back up to speed and match fitness.
“It was a big night for Joe [Thomas] as well. We’ve seen some of his qualities tonight and what he will bring to the team.”
