Nigel Pearson admitted lessons can be learned from defeat at Norwich as they prepare for a quick turnaround of matches ahead of another long trip to Burnley on Saturday.
The game promised to deliver goals in the build-up as two in-form teams went head-to-head and it certainly didn't disappoint with both teams looking to stretch their unbeaten records.
It was City's start to the game that cost them, having found themselves two goals behind through two Kal Naismith errors after 23 minutes. But the visitors were positive from the off and their overall performance was evidence that they can match a team of Norwich's quality on their own turf.
Saturday's game against Burnley will be equally as tough as City travel to another side who are looking for an immediate return to the Premier League following their relegation last season. Despite leaving Carrow Road empty-handed, Pearson's side can take plenty of confidence knowing they have the capabilities to cause an upset at the weekend.
When asked whether his side would have learned any lessons last night, he said: "Yes, definitely. The takeaway tonight is when we go to Burnley at the weekend we don't start tentatively like we did today.
"Whether you think we did or not, in my opinion, we were a little bit reactive. I have to remind myself as well that we have players who when you consider they were in the Premier League and some of our players are in League One, that is a big step up for some of our lads.
"But they're doing great so even on an evening when we've come away with nothing points-wise, we've shown some good qualities that people will be wary of."
City's brave style of play passing out from the back and their aggressive press is a high-risk but high-reward system. On one hand, it means they can win the ball back in advanced positions and attack in numbers but on the other, they will get caught in possession in dangerous areas which was on show yesterday.
There is no doubt City's defensive away record will continue to hold them back unless it improves. While they've kept three consecutive clean sheets at Ashton Gate, they've now conceded 11 away from home in five league matches. Only Coventry (12) have conceded more on the road.
However, Pearson won't apologise for their weaknesses because he's aware his side remain a lot more effective when playing on the front foot.
"I think we have to continue with our positive approach," he added. "The more cynical people will say you have to solve the defensive approach.
"We are what we are and we are prepared to go man for man at the back because it suits the players we have. I'm pleased with the players we have and we're a decent side to watch and more importantly we at least give ourselves a bit of belief that we can win games."
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