Ledley King feels we put in a performance to be proud of in our Carling Cup Final defeat against Manchester United.
The Club captain has praised the team effort that saw us match the European champions throughout the 120 minutes of football before the penalty shoot-out cost us.
And with another massive game coming up against Middlesbrough in the Premier League on Wednesday, Ledley feels we must focus on the positives that have come out of our Wembley display.
"The whole team worked hard to protect the defence and Gomes didn't have too much to do on the day," he said.
"United didn't create too many openings and it had the look of a 0-0 going into extra time as there were a lot of tired bodies out there. We just hoped we could take one of our chances, but it wasn't to be.
"We got a little tired towards the end and they put the pressure on, but that was to be expected. I think we can take heart from the performance going into our league games."
The misfortune of failing to convert spot-kicks falls on the shoulders of the brave Jamie O'Hara and David Bentley.
But as skipper, Ledley took it upon himself to praise the lads for their courage as the pain of defeat hit home after the game.
"I said to the lads that they were the ones who showed the willingness to step up. We win as a team and lose as a team, so no-one is being singled out.
"It's disappointing, but I thought we put in a performance we can be proud of, and penalties is never a nice way to lose. But one team has to, and unfortunately it was us.
"The dressing room was sombre afterwards and a big contrast to how it was last year. Now we've got to pick ourselves up for Wednesday's game. There's no time to dwell on this result."
Ledley also praised our fans who, for the second year running at Wembley, proved they are one of the best sets of supporters in the land.
"The fans were brilliant, and everywhere they go they seem to out-sing the opposition and spur the lads on. They played a big part in our two Wembley performances."
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