WE CAN LEARN FROM PORTO EXPERIENCE
NELSON: SUNDERLAND MUST USE CUP DEFEAT AS MOTIVATION FOR NEXT SEASON
how far we got and how hard it will be to win and use it as a motivator.”
Nelson, who made four appearances for Hartlepool United in February, before injury cut short his loan spell, played the final 30 minutes having come on for Rees Greenwood.
“The support was unbelievable,” said 19-year-old Nelson.
“When I was at Hartlepool on loan, that was the biggest crowd I had played in front of until this game. Growing up through the academy, you dream of playing in front of these crowds here.
“To get so many fans was amazing and the lads all appreciate it.
“It was great to see so many people behind us and I think we deserved that recognition for how well we have done in the competition.
“We did so well to reach the final, it is a European final at the end of the day. Fair play to Porto they did everything well and unfortunately they were too much for us.”