Paul Lambert refused to point fingers at his players after a heart-breaking 2-0 Premier League defeat to champions Man United today at Old Trafford.

Anderson's second half header and a late sidefooted finish from Danny Welbeck ended City's brave resistance, but the Canaries carved out a number of clear cut chances in the second period. Anthony Pilkington rolled wide with only Anders Lindegaard to beat before a snapshot clipped the inside of the Dane's right-hand post. Steve Morison also fashioned a clear opening before Anderson's breakthrough header - but Lambert saluted his men's bravery.

'I thought we played ever so well and had chances to score before Man United scored,' he said. 'You can't keep them out for 90 minutes the way they play the game and with them being at home. I was proud as anything for what the lads have done. You know if you come to places like this and get opportunities you have to try and take them. But the way we played and the performace you couldn't ask for any more. That is the game. When you are up against teams like that if you don't take your chances then it can come back to haunt you.'