Preston North End netted with one of their two shots on target at the start of the second half after a 45 minutes in which the Owls produced by far their best stuff of the short season so far.
Half-chances came and went and there were bright showings from Anthony Musaba and Momo Diaby, who went off injured.
The Owls will have to pick themselves up once again as they continue to embed the methods of their new coaching staff and head down to Cardiff City next weekend.
Here are our player ratings from a ‘near-but-far’ outing at S6.
5. Akin Famewo - 6
Was praised by his manager for his efforts at left-back pre-match and continued in that vein with a confident performance. With Lindasy having burst past Momo Diaby, he couldn’t get the required contact. Joined in the attacking efforts where he could. | UGC / Steve Ellis
6. Momo Diaby - 7
A nervy early touch or two were overcome and he put on a really confident, powerful display from midfield. Lindsay seemed to get the run on him for the opener but aside from that, it was a very encouraging debut. Off after the hour with an injury they’ll hope isn’t too serious. | Miller / UGC
7. George Byers - 6
Almost picked out a bit of magic early doors to slip through Gregory. Back in the starting line-up for the first time in 161 days, he looked up to speed and firing for much of the game but seemed to tire just a touch as things went on. | Getty / UGC
8. Barry Bannan - 6
Took on a couple of early shots and grew into things quickly, stationed very high up the pitch and able to influence things with possession developing further back. A lovely ball over the top put in Gregory. Dummies through the legs, classy touches. A lovely first half that slowed on the ball but he ran his socks off throughout. | UGC / Steve Ellis