The Blues boss was convinced that a free-kick should have been awarded for a foul on Fabrice Muamba in the build up that led to City striker Elano's goal that in the end decided the the contest at Eastlands.
"It was a blatant foul, and we feel really harshly treated. It was a ridiculous decision. The game hinged on it, and I didn't want that," Bruce said after the game.
"We gave Elano one bit of space - and he scores. But we didn't deserve to get beaten.
"The longer the game went on, the more comfortable we got - and Sven said we were the best team they'd met.
"It's all very well getting plaudits, but we need a few points on the board to match the performances we're putting in.
"The team could have had a lot more points on the board, and I'm happy with what I've seen from my squad so far."