Rochdale manager Steve Parkin shrugged off the disappointment of going out of the Worthington Cup tonight to salute his players.
The Third Division leaders lost 6-5 on penalties to Fulham after 120 minutes of action at Spotland.
Luis Boa Morte, who opened the scoring, converted the vital kick after two-goal Kevin Townson threatened to cause an upset.
But Rufus Brevett scored with almost the last kick of the game to give Fulham a vital lift.
Parkin said: "I was bitterly disappointed when that goal went in, whether we deserved it or not.
"The good thing from my point of view is that we tried to pass the ball well after we went behind and didn't kick them off the park.
"We worked hard and got back in the game and I thought we might just get the victory."
Parkin believes he has unearthed a diamond in Townson, wo was playing Sunday League football only a short time ago.
"I still think a full game is too much for him at this level because of the physical demands," said the Rochdale boss.
"But I have worked with him the last 12 months and I think he is as bright as any young striker in the country."
Fulham defender Brevett said: "Rochdale battled really well but I thought we had more of the play.
"We are just happy to be in the hat but it was certainly very, very close. These games are always difficult and we're very pleased to have come through it.
"You can never forget that there's a European place at the end of this competition and we're certainly taking it seriously."
Source sportinglife