Neil Warnock reckoned Cardiff City showed the strides they are making despite seeing a four-match unbeaten league run ended at Brighton.
The Bluebirds were beaten by Tomer Hemed’s strike 17 minutes from time as the Seagulls went back top of the Championship.
Warnock’s side remain 16th following the defeat in a game re-arranged after the original match last month was postponed due to fog.
But Warnock said: “I asked the players to show how far we have come and I thought we more than matched them at times.
“It shows me what we are looking for and what we need to succeed.
“I think Brighton will be glad that they don’t play us again. We had good chances and their goalkeeper has made three good saves.”
Kenneth Zohore had a good first-half chance for City, but David Stockdale saved on 23 minutes.
Joe Ralls went close while centre-back Sean Morrison had an effort tipped over by Stockdale from a Ralls free-kick.
Junior Hoilett was also denied by the home keeper before Brighton got on top after the break with Allan McGregor called more into action.
Hemed missed a great chance from close range before the Israel international finally fired past City’s on loan keeper.
Warnock’s men face another difficult trip on Saturday to face Reading who went third in the table on Tuesday after a 1-0 home win over Fulham.
