Royals boss Steve Coppell was left hugely disappointed after seeing his team crash out of the Carling Cup after penalties away to Stoke.

His team twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw after 120 minutes; James Henry scoring both our goals.

But Henry and Leroy Lita couldn't convert in the shoot-out, and the Potters edged through 4-3 on spot kicks.

Steve said, "I'm massively disappointed. I was desperate to win, so were the players and their performance showed that. I wanted to do well and win this competition.

"Just because I made changes doesn't mean I'm treating the competition lightly, It wasn't a lesser side, we had seven full internationals out there and another on the bench.

"It was a stereotypical Stoke performance in that their goals came from corners. For us to battle from that, playing the football we did and making the chances at the end...I thought my team were terrific.

"This competition is a pleasant diversion, and for once the rigours of the league don't count. The shackles are off and it helps everyone in the squad."

Henry was probably our best player on the night, and Steve said, "He has been on the fringe for a couple of years and we've been waiting for him to contribute more.

"Tonight he accepted the responsibility, he took a calm penalty during the game and the second one was a really great strike on his weaker left foot.

On the lads who missed from 12 yards, Steve commented, "I feel for them all and it would be wrong to single one out. You've got to be brave to take on, and it's easier to stand on halfway than take one. I've got no problem with anyone."