Barnsley interim boss Martin Devaney felt the “big moments” went against his side following their 5-4 aggregate defeat against Wanderers.
The Tykes won on the night but it wasn’t enough to secure a final against Oxford or Peterborough at Wembley later this month.
After the final whistle, Devaney told Sky Sports: “I am so proud of the lads, the way we performed tonight.
“The first half - coming in 2-1 down - we spoke about character, believing in ourselves and sticking to the gameplan. The boys executed it so I am really proud of them.
“I care about this football club and know what it means to the fans. Hopefully, after that performance the players have shown how much they care.”
He added: “We struggled with set-pieces and at those times, we have got to defend a little bit better. That is frustrating, but we got back in it and found a way.
“We kept playing those diagonals. Sam (Cosgrove) caused so many problems all night, picking up second balls and sustaining the attacks.
“It goes back to the first game – the penalty and the poor corner, where I feel it is a foul. That is what let us down really. That is football, isn’t it? Big moments change games.”
Devaney has taken charge of the past few matches following Neill Collins’ sacking but ruled himself out of the job on a permanent basis.
“I don’t want it,” he said. “I have enjoyed it over the last two weeks, I am sure the club will make a decision in the next few weeks.
“It is down to the board, they will make the right decision at the right time. I have had clear communication and I am sure in time, we will find out what is going on.
“(The fans) have just got to stick with us – stick with the players and the club. Someone will come in in the summer and we will be nice and positive, we will try to get promotion next year.”
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