'There were some really outstanding performances' (From Times Series)

Barnet boss Mark Robson to take positives from Birmingham City defeat in Capital One Cup

1:14pm Wednesday 15th August 2012 in Sport By Adam Newson

It is not often a manager watches his side lose 5-1 and can take more positives than negatives from the match.

But Barnet head coach Mark Robson remained upbeat despite the Bees exiting the Capital One Cup at Championship outfit Birmingham City.

The travelling 383 Barnet supporters watched their side open the scoring in Tuesday’s game. New signing Jon Nurse headed the Bees into a surprise, but not undeserved, lead on the half-hour.

Birmingham quickly hit back through a Marlon King penalty before four second half goals from Steven Caldwell, Darren Ambrose, Peter Lovenkrands and Wade Elliot gave the final score a flattering look.

The scoreline does not reflect what was, especially in the first 45 minutes, a very good Barnet performance.

They passed quickly through midfield, opened up gaps in the Birmingham defence and created several clear cut chances.

The only disappointing note from the first half was that they didn’t go in ahead at the interval.

"In the first half I was absolutely delighted with how we performed," Robson explained. "I would even go as far as saying we were outstanding.

"We defended well, they had a couple of half chances, but to be honest I felt we created the better chances.

"We had three one-on-ones with the goalkeeper and have hit the post as well. We came in level at half time but we could have been two or three up."

However, the second 45 minutes was a different story. Robson continued: "We conceded the early goal in the second half which didn’t help us and then Darren Ambrose scores a fantastic goal. That’s the class Birmingham have, they have some great players and their finishing was first class.

"But at 3-1 I could have taken that on the chin. The only thing I’m disappointed with was the final ten minutes.

"We gave away two passes in our defending third that were needless and we have caused our own problems and end up conceding five goals which wasn’t a real reflection of the game.

"There are lots and lots of positives for me to take out of it though. There were some really outstanding performances from a young team that has only been put together.

"I think the boys realise that we are a good side. We are more than capable of competing against a team that plays in the Championship and just missed out on a place in the Premier League last season."