Norwich City boss Paul Lambert was pleased with his players in defeat to Arsenal.

Lambert's men again refused to accept defeat, with substitute Grant Holt giving Per Mertesacker a real test during the closing stages, but were unable to find an equaliser.

"Arsenal are a right good side, but the pleasing thing is we were always in the game," said the Canaries manager.

"You are never going to keep Arsenal out for 90 minutes, and the winning goal really hurt us.

"At this level, you have to make as few mistakes as you can.

"But against every big team, we have always had a foothold and never been out of it, we are up against a really top side, but the lads never disgraced themselves."