Gutted Tam Courts conceded the penalty decision was the right call in Dundee United's defeat against Rangers.
Scott McMann threw out an arm in the closing stages of the Premiership clash and referee Alan Muir pointed to the spot.
James Tavernier stepped up to convert and sent the league leaders seven points clear at the top.
Despite his disappointment, Courts felt Muir was left with little choice but to rule against McMann.
However, with Covid decimating his squad and 10 academy players making up the squad, he remained proud of the showing in Govan.
The United boss told BBC Sportsound: "With limited coaching time we have given the players all the detail we possibly could.
"We've tried to adapt and have minimum disruption., and I'm really proud of the young players who took that on and executed the game plan really well.
"Barring a penalty incident, I didn't think there was a lot between the players during the game.
"We got a bit of live feedback during the game that it probably was a penalty from a trailing arm. That's just something we've got to accept.
"I'm really proud of the players. They fans were hear in great numbers, forking out before Christmas, they were vocal and supportive of the players today.
"I'm really proud and pleased we can give them something to cheer about.
"Had we had a fully fit squad we would be comfortable and confident coming to these places, but the players we had represented the team really well."
