LEE Radford says the defeat at Huddersfield Giants has left him encouraged about what next season can bring for Hull FC.
The Hull coach fielded an under-strength side at the John Smith's Stadium with Harry Tyson-Wilson on his debut and Jack Logan both featuring in a 38-28 loss.
In control against the Giants for long periods, FC leaked four tries in 13 second-half minutes.
Radford said a look at his team sheet and the knowledge of the additions made for next season offer plenty of encouragement Hull will be better prepared in 2015.
"There was only 10 points in it and they are fifth and we are where we are, but we showed there is not a massive gulf there," said Radford.
"To get that performance with this group, I am pretty pleased. The players had a go, but again it was a couple of mentally soft errors and decisions by us that cost us.
"But to get that performance with this group, knowing we will be better equipped next time we meet, that's pleasing. It has been a tough season and it's been a short step back to hopefully move a huge step forward."
Hull counted the cost of their second-half mistakes having led from the early stages through Danny Houghton's try.
Further scores came from Aaron Heremaia and Jamie Shaul, but a more dominant display by the hosts after the break secured victory.
Missing Richard Horne, who will retire after Friday's home game with Leeds, Radford called up 17-year-old scrum-half Tyson-Wilson for his debut off the bench.
"For both Jack and Harry it was a massive advertisement for the pair of them that they need to live in the gym during pre-season," said Radford. "Harry has some real football in him, he's a footballer who loves the ball in his hand.
"His challenge now is to physically develop, but he will as he's still only 17. He will develop naturally and he is going to be a player."
