Derby County boss John Eustace said the 2-1 home defeat against promotion-chasing Ipswich Town was tough on his side.
"I thought we were excellent today. It's frustrating to lose but I am very proud of the effort," Eustace told BBC Radio Derby.
"I think you can see how we are growing and evolving as a team. Our football, at times, was really good.
"There are still lots of improvements to come, but we are playing against a top, top team with fantastic players. You can see the players they brought off the bench today – and that's what we are competing against.
"I thought we went toe-to-toe with them and I don't think we deserved to lose the game. There are lots of positives to take.
"I would have loved to have started a bit quicker. It's disappointing we couldn't get a second. We need to be better in the final third. But we are still learning."
- Latest Derby County news, analysis and fan views
- Listen to Derby County content on BBC Sounds
