Striker Ben Morris netted his fifth U23s goal of the season but Gerard Nash’s youngsters were beaten 3-1 away by their Bristol City counterparts this afternoon.
Gustav Engvall put the home side ahead on 52 but England U18 international Morris hit back five minutes later.
However, Diego De Girolamo restored the home side’s lead on 63 before Osagi Bascome completed the scoring with 15 minutes left on the clock.
The Blues youngsters were facing a Robins side featuring a number of more senior players, including Wales international Adam Matthews, who is on loan from Sunderland, Korey Smith, Luke Freeman and Irish international winger Callum O’Dowda.
Town’s senior side take on Bristol City, who have won just once in their last eight in all competitions, losing six, at Ashton Gate on Saturday afternoon.
U23s: Wright, Woolfenden, C Smith, Fowler, Webber, Blanchfield, Dozzell, Benyu, McDonnell, McLoughlin, Morris (Cathline 81). Unused: Hayes, McKendry, Folami, Downes.