The Sheffield Wednesday Under-21s were narrowly defeated by Gainsborough Trinity on Friday evening.
The Conference North side scored the only goal of the game moments after the restart to claim a 1-0 win with Bradley Barraclough on target.
Despite the defeat, Development Squad coach Lee Bullen saw plenty to be encouraged by during the game.
He told swfc.co.uk: “The defeat was harsh because I believed we played the better football.
“But it was a really good test for our young lads and that’s exactly why we have arranged these friendly games against non-league and ex-professional players.
“The physical challenge is something the players will learn from because we knew they would be up against it at times.
“But in saying that, their goalkeeper made four or five outstanding saves when we peppered their goal with shots.”
Bullen has said his side were perhaps caught cold after the interval, conceding in the 48th minute, but insists lessons will be learned from the game.
He added: “There were many pleasing aspects of our game and I’m pleased with how the young lads coped with the challenge.
“We were able to blood a number of youngsters in the game so lessons will be learned.”