Jobi McAnuff admits Reading were ruthlessly punished for their mistakes in last weekend's 2-0 defeat by Southampton.
The Royals are rock-bottom of the Premier League and their desperate plight was worsened by Southampton, who eased their own relegations fears with goals in either half from Jay Rodriguez and Adam Lallana.
McAnuff believes Reading's commitment could not have been questioned, but accepts that even the slightest slip-up proves costly at the highest level.
"We looked at it as a game we could get some points from, but it wasn't to be," said the Reading captain.
"It wasn't through lack of effort or togetherness. It's just from our point of view not getting the little breaks and the decisions here and there.
"We all worked hard, but from our point of view the goals were disappointing.
"You get punished at this level and we've found that out this season."
McAnuff insists the team have not given up hope of an unlikely escape from relegation.
"The biggest lesson we have learned this season is that games are decided by fine margins," he said.
"I thought we started the Southampton game very well and were very positive, but unfortunately they got the first goal and went on to win.
"But it wasn't through lack of effort and we'll make sure between now and the end of the season we'll put the effort in and we'll see where it takes us."
Neville, who joined the club from Manchester United in the summer of 2005, will take some time this summer before deciding on his next move but he revealed that his playing days are not over yet.
The 36-year-old became only the seventh player to reach 500 games in the Premier League on Boxing Day 2012, and he has made 303 appearances for the Toffees since leaving United, where he won six league titles, three FA Cups and a Champions League crown.
In a statement on Everton's official website, Neville said: "It's been an honour to play for and captain Everton Football Club. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time on Merseyside and will leave with immense pride.
"I would like to thank the Manager, Chairman, all of the staff and the players at Everton for their continued support during my time at the club.
"I'd also like to pay a special thanks to the fans, who have been amazing over the past eight years and Everton will always have a place in my heart.
"I want to continue to play at the top level as long as I physically can, and will be weighing up my options before making a decision on my next move. I'll now be doing everything I can to help Everton finish as high up the league table as possible."
