The loss was the fourth time this season that Argyle has conceded four or more goals away from home.
They have the worst away record of any team in the league, having lost eight and drawn two of their 10 away games.
“I know the support the fans have given us, and they have come here in large numbers and it was the same on Tuesday night,” Rooney added to BBC Radio Devon at Ashton Gate after the team’s shortest away trip of the season. Argyle.
“It was very difficult to approach and not feel embarrassed to show our appreciation to the fans.”
Rooney made six changes to his injury-hit squad in a bid to stem the problems at Norwich City.
But after a goalless first half at Ashton Gate, Rooney felt Argyle “completely collapsed” after losing a goal 12 minutes into the second half with Anis Mehmeti setting up Scott Twine’s opener before scoring two himself , and Sinclair Armstrong then sealed the win.
“There has come a time when the players have to understand that they need to give more and show more character, more fight, more desire,” added Rooney, who was appointed Argyle head coach in May.
“I simplified the game as much as I could for them, so as not to overcomplicate things and ultimately it is my responsibility: I take full responsibility for the result, I choose the team, I choose the tactics.
“But I think the players are now at a stage where they need to hear, not only in the locker room, but also from the outside, that they have to show more.
“We have a duty to this football club to show pride, respect, passion, fight for this club and in the last two games I feel like it hasn’t been there.”
