Rotherham United boss Paul Warne expressed his pride at his side's performance - especially in the first half - but admitted they needed to take advantage during the period of the game that they were on top as they fell to defeat at Reading.
The Millers turned in arguably their best first half display of the season, dominating possession and the majority of what proved to be half chances, and were desperately unlucky to find themselves behind at the break.
They started the second period in a similar vein but in their quest to draw level, were punished by the table-topping Royals.
Speaking after the game, Warne explained that failing to capitalise on their early pressure ultimately cost them taking any of the points back up to South Yorkshire.
"Away from home against top of the league I think we must have had 60 or 70 percent possession in the first half.
"We were the team playing on the front foot and I thought we passed the ball really well but without creating enough clear chances.
"Obviously for them to score - I think probably the first time they were in our box in the 44th minute - was a massive suckerpunch.
"It looked marginally offside but from my angle I'm saying it and I don't honestly know.
"Second half we came out again and kept playing quite well but again without creating. It came to later on in the game and it felt like the definition of insanity - to keep doing the same thing and expect a different outcome.
"We changed it and went two up front and young George had a chance, so did Freddie and we went three at the end.
"Then we got done with a corner, which was my fault because I pushed Freddie up thinking there was 15 minutes left and we might get something on the counter.
"The lads concede and that's on me. Then there was a ball down the middle to give away a penalty, which wasn't what the lads deserved.
"Overall, I'm pleased with the performance but we can see how hard it is to create clear cut chances and half chances need to go in when you're away from home.
"Mickel has had a couple of tough games and he just looked a bit jaded. I could have had him on the bench but if he's jaded would I put him on? Possibly not. I had Sads on the bench as another outlet and quite a lot of attacking options.
"I don't think we've got any injuries which is good. We're a little bit battered and bruised and disappointed but on the whole I think we're good."