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"We are disappointed to be out of the competition because of the level of our performance and the goal that was awarded against us," said the Bolton manager who believed there was a handball in the build up.
"I thought we started slowly in the first ten minutes but after that we played well, especially remembering that we made eight changes. We had to get players a game and the way everyone went about it was pleasing. Young Rodrigo was terrific, as were a number of players.
"It was an end-to-end cup tie with both teams going out for it. We had numerous opportunities to score but never took them and we paid a price for doing that. Tamir Cohen nearly finished a free flowing move after playing a nutmeg through the centre-half's leg and Lee Grant has made some terrific saves, which typified our evening.
"The goal shouldn't have been allowed because Chris Iwelumo punched the ball which led to Elliott knocking the ball over the line. There is no dispute that the ball was over the line but it struck a hand and we should have had a free kick.
"But I don't want to take anything away from Burnley because they took their chance when it came. Our focus is now on Manchester United this weekend."
Brian Laws admitted relief that this game, and everything surrounding it, is now out of the way. "We knew it was going to be a tough night for him. I'm glad it's out of the way really. It was always in the background lingering and hopefully this has put it to bed and we can both move on," he said.
"Maybe the supporters have got it off their chest now and we can move on to a new era, concentrate on what we've got here and get the supporters right behind the players as they did tonight. They were outstanding. The support was unbelievable. What an atmosphere."
Commenting on the performance, Laws added: "I thought the players focused their minds on the job and never got distracted from what was outside. The television cameras missed an absolute belter of a game which was scintillating to watch.
"The players started as we finished off on Saturday. We have got a momentum going and a belief and a confidence. It would have been nice to get the second goal but there's no doubt we were the better side in the end and the pleasing thing is we are through to the next round."