Inter Milan 2-1 QPR Steve Brown was full of praise for his youngsters after witnessing them lose narrowly this afternoon (Monday) to their Inter Milan counterparts in the Coppa Carnevale tournament, the most prestigious Under-20's Club competition in World football.
Facing the reigning holders in the opening fixture was always going to be a tough test for Brown's side, and their task was made even more daunting when the hosts grabbed the opener inside the first minute.
QPR refused to buckle, however, and quickly regained their composure with some slick, passing football.
Their determination and spirit were rewarded before the half-time interval when some good approach play involving Romone Rose led to Antonio German (pictured) being presented with a fantastic opportunity to level matters - and he didn't waste the chance, coolly slotting home.
In the second half, the R's continued to play attractive, attacking football and really tested their illustrious hosts.
With little more than 15 minutes remaining, however, QPR were dealt a cruel blow when they conceded what proved to be the winner from a set-piece.
Following the game, Brown focused on the positives of a fantastic display.
"This is a highly creditable result," he told www.qpr.co.uk.
"Paulo Sousa came to the match, and he said to me afterwards that many people will have come here today expecting to see Inter win 4-0 or 5-0. But they have left talking about QPR, which is great."
Brown added: "We really challenged the holders, and took the game to them. That makes me immensely proud.
"In my opinion, a draw would have been a fair result. We definitely deserved something from it, but football can be a cruel game.
"Now I am really looking forward to our next game against Australian side A.P.I.A. Leichhardt Tigers on Wednesday, as are all the lads."
Brown opted for a three-pronged attack, with German, Angelo Balanta and Rose leading the line - and he was pleased with what he saw from the trio.
"I know all about the three of them, having worked closely with them over the last couple of years," he added.
"They've got plenty of goals in them, I've got no doubts about that.
"I must also give a special mention to Matteo Alberti, who played much of the match so soon after Saturday's fixture at Nottingham Forest.
"He's full of confidence after his two goals for the First Team, and he gave a good account of himself this afternoon."
QPR: Nicki Lee-Bulmer, Elliot Cox, Aaron Waters, Joe Oastler, Ed Harris, Lee Brown, Terry Smith, Matteo Alberti (Josh Parker, 75), Antonio German, Angelo Balanta, Romone Rose.
