A 5-0 reverse at the Asseal NewYork Stadium was a harsh reflection on City’s display in what was our final Group E fixture.
Having gone in goalless at the break, City were undone by a three-goal salvo in 15 second half minutes as the impressive League One side went on to seal their third straight group win.
The result left City needing Scunthorpe to beat Doncaster 1-0 or 2-0 in next month’s group finale if we are to claim second place and go through to the last 32.
But regardless of that outcome, Barry-Murphy believes his young players will emerge all the stronger for the experience of our EFL Trophy campaign.
“The whole point of this competition is that it pushes players to places they have never been to before and that was evident on Tuesday,” Barry-Murphy acknowledged.
“We speak about great development and learning opportunities and only really highlight how it feels when you win.
“One of the reasons you have to be so humble when winning is at some stage results will go against you.
“Obviously, it feels very disappointing when you get beaten but for our lads it’s about how we drive each other on to reach the highest possible standards both as individuals and collectively.
“In terms of the overall process of how we want to play, collectively we have to strive to continually improve all aspects of our play.
“There are no guarantees of success - we can only go into the next game and try to improve the way we play in every single way.
“The beauty of a result such as Tuesday’s if you like is that the way we respond will be the most significant factor.”
One of the positives of the night was the first appearance in a City shirt of teenage Brazilian striker Kayky following his move to the Club earlier this year from Fluminense.
And the EDS boss said the 18-year-old would also only benefit from the experience.
“It was his first exposure in English football and its so different to what he has been used to so I think to get his first minutes for the club in such a valuable environment will give him a unique taste of what English football is about,” Barry-Murphy continued.
“Whenever we get the chance to work with him it will be great for us.
“He has made a great impression in terms of his personality and the way he has got in amongst the lads.
“And as he gets to improve his understanding of the way we work it will be a big help.
“The lads have gone out of their way to help make him feel comfortable and he seems very content and happy with what he’s doing.”
