Andy Butler was proud of the performance despite defeat to Stoke City in the Vitality FA Cup on Sunday.
The Belles started brilliantly with an early goal but Stoke proved too strong over the course of 90 minutes. Butler praised his team who went toe-to-toe with the side from a higher division.
Butler said: “The way we approached the game, the way we stuck to our game plan and how we went about our work was superb.
“We pushed them right to the end. We didn’t get the luck at times but all three of our goals were really well taken.
“What we have shown over the last two weeks is amazing in terms of work ethic and how we approach games. I couldn’t be more pleased with the players."
Butler was without some key players on Sunday which offered opportunities for regional talent centre players Amy Nowell and Sidni Simmonds. Both made their debuts coming on in the second half.
He added: “It’s a credit to the development side.
"They are key to bringing through players. It's important that we can keep that pathway open because it’s the best way to build the first team."
Belles have a free weekend coming up following two matches against higher opposition giving the manager time to reflect.
He said: “I want them to watch the performances back and to see how well we have done as a team.
“We have come so far as a team.”