Crystal Palace assistant manager Paddy McCarthy admits defeat at Aston Villa was tough to take.
Villa won 3-1, with their goals coming late on, including a controversial penalty.
McCarthy, who stood in after manager Roy Hodgson pulled out of the game due to illness, said: "I'm disappointed for the players, the game plan worked for a large spell of the game, but I'm disappointed that we didn't get anything from the game.
"The team shape and the effort were great. We knew it was going to be a tough side, but the boys who stepped in were great.
"The result just leaves a really bitter taste in our mouths."
On Villa's penalty, he added: "If it takes five minutes to make a decision, that tells you everything you need to know."