Jack Milne insists Aberdeen can still rebuild their season despite seeing their Hampden dreams ended by Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final on Saturday.
The Dons defender was keen to ease the pressure on manager Stephen Robinson as his side travelled to Glasgow for the clash, but the Reds were beaten by a late Ryan Naderi winner.
The result leaves Robinson's side with just one win in their last six games, and they now face a crucial Premiership meeting with bottom-placed Hibs, who could draw level with Aberdeen with a win at Pittodrie.
Milne: We feel we're building something
Milne said: "Listen, we try not to pay too much attention to the outside. It's us as a group, as players and staff. We feel we're building something. I think every player in there feels like we're building something.
"Even before the game on Saturday, there was a special, special feeling. All of us believe we're going to get a result. We just need to keep working hard. All of us stay together through the tough times and the good. Hopefully, we come out the other side of it.
"We gave it everything. I gave 100 percent. We were down to the bare bones and I don't think there's one person in that changing room who didn't give everything on Saturday. I'm disappointed.
"I think there are definitely positives to take from it. The grit and determination was definitely there. We fought for every ball, every duel. On another day, we'll probably get a result.
"As I said before, we can take a lot of positives. I think that's the bare minimum in terms of desire and a willingness to go and compete. We've got to take that into the Hibs game. It's a massive game. Heading into the international break, you always want to head into them on a positive. We're looking to do that now."
Devlin impresses on first start
Milne did his best to keep Rangers at bay, as did veteran teammate Nicky Devlin, who put in a brave shift in what was his first start of the season.
In the end, there was no reward as Rangers edged through to the December 13 final.
He said: "I think I defended well when I had to. I think for the team and me personally, there are positives to take. That's what we've got to go and do now.
"I'd be lying if I said it's not been difficult. This season has probably one of the hardest battles of my career. I've had a lot going on and some disappointing performances.
"But that's part of the game. It's nuts. There are ups and downs and you've got to take both. As for Nicky, we thought he was excellent. He's one of the best professionals I've ever played with.
"He's not played a lot. He's kept his head down. He's worked as hard as anyone at the training ground. He's been called upon this week and he's put in a great performance.
"I think that says everything about him as a guy and as a footballer. That's what happens in football. You get injuries, curveballs get thrown and you've got to take it on the chin and deal with it. He's done brilliantly.
"You see him in midweek when he came on. He's shouting, he's trying to encourage the team on. He's great to play with, especially me being right beside him. He helps me a lot. He's a great communicator. I've always enjoyed playing with him."
