Derby County Under-23s midfielder Isaac Hutchinson was left gutted as the Rams conceded late on to fall to a 3-2 defeat against Chelsea at Cobham Training Ground.
Derby led the game for 13 second-half minutes after coming from behind to lead 2-1, with Jack Stretton and new-signing Louie Watson firing the goals.
However, their hard work was undone when Brian Fiabema struck a late double to steal all three points for Chelsea.
Hutchinson, who was making his second appearance for the Under-23s after joining Derby from League Two side Southend United earlier this month, believes the Rams deserved more from the game.
Speaking to RamsTV, he said: “Everyone’s gutted with it to be honest, we dominated for large parts of the game. We all feel like we deserved more from it.
“We created a lot of chances. We had a few in the first-half that could’ve out us a goal up which would’ve changed the game.”
“When you play teams like Chelsea you’ve got to make the most of those chances because they punish you,” he added.
20-year-old Hutchinson also touched on how impressed he has been by the standard of the Under-23s since signing, referring to the level of football as a ‘step-up’ from League Two.
He said: “I’ve really enjoyed it, it’s been a step-up from what I’m used to intensity wise but I’ve enjoyed it and I’m feeling good.
“I’ve only been here for a couple of games but from what I know the lads have got good a spirit and fight.
“There’s no question we’ve got the belief in the dressing room that we can push on and score goals - it’s just when we get them staying ahead and not conceding.”
The Rams will look to get back to winning ways in the Premier League 2 as they host Southampton at Moor Farm Training Centre on Friday (1pm kick-off).
Looking ahead, Hutchinson said: “That’s what we’re all looking forward to now – getting another opportunity to put it right and put in another good performance.”
Words: Jack Hasler