A penalty shootout defeat on Thursday night at Winchcombe School saw the Cheltenham Town under-16s finish as runners up in the EFL South West Floodlit Cup final.
A competitive finale to this season's competition ended all square at 3-3 after 90 minutes, with Exeter City claiming the silverware with a 5-4 victory from the penalty spot.
Gerry McGinty's side went in front in the first half when a good forward pass was latched onto by Marshall Hopkins, and the attacker crossed for Charlie Dashfield to head in just under the nose of the Grecians goalkeeper.
Exeter then hit back though in a crazy few minutes where they scored three times before the interval to grab a firm hold of the game.
A positive start to the second half saw the Robins get themselves back into the tie.
Hopkins was successful in front of goal to tighten up the scoreline and Josh Aldridge's deep free kick evaded everyone to nestle in the back of the net from distance.
The young Robins continued to create chances and the momentum was very much with them, while the visitors offered a real threat on the break.
Neither side could find a late breakthrough however and the game headed straight for penalties with Exeter coming out on top to win the competition.
On Wednesday the under-18s take on Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup third round at the Jonny-Rocks Stadium. Kick-off is at 7pm and tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for concessions.