Roy Keane was pleased with his young side after Town came through a penalty shoot-out at Shrewsbury to book a place in the Carling Cup Second Round.
Several youngsters made their debuts in the 3-3 draw, with Blues winning the shoot-out 4-2 to record a first penalties victory since beating Luton in the ZDS Cup in 1991.
"It was a great experience for the youngsters," said the Town boss.
"We were in a position to win the game but let them back into it, although credit to Shrewsbury and when it comes down to penalties, it's a bit of a lottery.
"The youngsters came through with flying colours and I was pleased with them. They showed a lot of determination and character to come through and we would have been bitterly disappointed to have lost out in the end."
Connor Wickham grabbed his first two goals for the Club with Alan Quinn finding the net with a free-kick and Roy was delighted with the impact both made.
"Quinner was outstanding for us, especially in the first-half. Colin Healy did well and Connor showed his potential again. He worked hard, showed a good attitude and put in a mature performance for a 16-year-old.
"We have to remember he's only 16 and we have to manage him properly. It might sound silly but the boy is still growing and we have to be mindful of that and not put too much workload on him." 
