Goalkeeper David Marshall was left frustrated following Derby County’s 1-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday on New Year's Day.
The Rams started 2021 with a defeat after Callum Paterson’s second half header earned the Owls all three points at Hillsborough.
Derby were the stronger side in the first half and created a number of openings but could not make their pressure count.
Colin Kazim-Richards’ header hit the crossbar, whilst Graeme Shinnie was denied by a fine block. .
And in the second half, Craig Forsyth’s left-wing delivery was waiting to be finished off but the ball just eluded the onrushing Louie Sibley and Kazim-Richards.
Derby were made to pay for those missed opportunities as Paterson netted from close range to hand the home side the win.
Speaking to RamsTV after the game, Marshall was disappointed to lose a game he felt the Rams dominated.
“We played really well for the majority, particularly the first half,” Marshall told RamsTV. “We had the better chances in the game and some really good chances; three or four of them.
“Goals change games and it is difficult at the very end, but when we analyse it we did play well for the majority of the game again.
“We looked a goal threat and every time we went forward Sheffield Wednesday struggled to stop us. That is a positive we will take, but we need to score and the first goal is massive.
“To be fair to Sheffield Wednesday, they managed to not concede and hang on in there. They have got some quality and hard-working players so maybe they were always going to have a spell in the game and unfortunately the break for the goal went for them.
“If we take our chances, it totally changes the game. Unfortunately we just have to put it down to one of those nights.
“We have been playing well the last six to eight weeks and our performances have been there, so that is a positive we can take from it.”
The Rams now have a break from league action as they face National League North side Chorley in the Third Round of the Emirates FA Cup next week.
And Marshall knows Derby will need to be at their best to ensure they progress in the competition.
“When you face a lower league team it is always that banana skin,” he said. “We are looking forward to it and having a bit of a break in the week too with no game. The FA Cup is such a big tournament, so we look forward to it.
“Chorley have done well, but we have been in a good vein of form recently. Results haven’t been exactly how we want them but I think everyone can see we are now playing well and we can look forward to the cup.”