Kyle Knoyle felt the Development Squad didn't get the rub of the green in their 2-0 Barclays Under-21 Premier League defeat to Liverpool on Friday night.
The young Hammers fell behind on the stroke of half-time to a ricochet off Jack Dunn which deceived Raphael Spiegel and rolled into the net after the home side had been firmly in control of proceedings.
Dunn scored a second with 77 minutes on the clock to seal the win for the visitors, but Knoyle felt the first goal had dented the Hammers' confidence.
He told West Ham TV: "We played very well and the defeat was unlucky because we conceded just before half-time.
"The manner of the goal as well, it bobbled awkwardly and Rapha couldn't get to it. I thought we had the majority of the chances and if we had scored after their first goal, then I think we would have gone onto win it.
"The goal came just before half-time, so our heads went down just a bit but if we'd have managed to keep it at 0-0 then the game would be open and anything could happen."
The Hammers more than held their own against a Liverpool side, who arrived at Rush Green in second place in the table and contained Brazilian international Lucas Leiva, and France international Mamadou Sakho.
Elliot Lee saw an effort strike the post while he was also denied by the visiting keeper along with Sebastian Lletget and Josh Cullen in an opening period which the home side dominated.
Right-back Knoyle was disappointed with the result but felt the experience of playing against two international players could only benefit him as a footballer.
"We were doing well defensively, everyone was working hard and had we got a goal we would have been set for the match.
"We were unlucky that we conceded the first goal and the manner of it was disappointing.
"It can only be good for me as a first year and playing against players like this is only going to make me a better player."
Knoyle himself had only returned just in time for the match after playing a part for the England Under-18s against Croatia at St George's Park.
While the Three Lions lost both matches against their visitors, Knoyle believes the experience of representing his country can only improve him as a player.
"They had two full internationals out there tonight, in the shape of Lucas and Sakho and everyone played well. Everyone worked hard for the team and we showed that we could be just as good as them on the night.
"Every time you go and represent England it's a great experience where you're learning and picking things up from the game.
"It's good for my CV that I've played for England and the fact that im playing for the Under-21s is only good for me."