Fulham Head Coach Scott Parker lamented his side's lack of intensity, as Fulham fell to a 1-0 defeat to Barnsley at Oakwell.
A 13th-minute close range effort from Luke Thomas was the difference at Oakwell, sealing all three points for The Reds.
“Overall, I’m bitterly disappointed,” explained Parker.
“It was the first game of the season, so we knew it’d be a tough battle, which it proved.
“We started okay, but then they got a grip of the game and caused us one or two problems.
“We anticipated how fast they’d be out the blocks, as they’re a very strong side at home.
“We got into the game, huffed and puffed, and had some good chances, but their defending was heroic at times.
“We understand the league, a lot of players have been in this division, but you can always lose a game of football.
“In the first half, we were pretty slow to second balls, lacked a real intensity at times and looked a little short.
“I felt we came on strong in the second-half, caused them a few problems and we could've got one back, but it wasn't to be."
A positive for the Whites was the impact made by Anthony Knockaert, who looked sharp when he came on to play his first competitive game in a Fulham shirt.
“I thought he was superb,” said Fulham’s Head Coach.
“Anthony has come in late and is probably not up to scratch in terms of fitness, but certainly in the short spell he was out there, he produced some quality, which we’ll be looking forward to seeing more.”