Russell Martin felt MK Dons beat their selves in Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Hull City at Stadium MK.
Martin’s side suffered their first loss in five games at the hands of the league leaders, who scored twice in the opening 12 minutes before sealing their success with 14 minutes left to play.
“We beat ourselves,” the Dons boss said in his post-match press conference. “For the most part, we were the better team but we have to take it on the chin.
“Once again, we started really well and we have a chance in the first two or three minutes. All of a sudden they score out of nowhere and we give ourselves a mountain to climb. It's the same in every game and it's we have to sort out.
“We went behind but reacted to it fantastically, as we always do. We then conceded another poor goal, which gave them something to hang on to again. From there, it was attack versus defence.
“I was really pleased with our performance from there. There wasn't anything wrong fundamentally with the performance, apart from the goals.
“The third goal then comes from a set piece and it really killed the game. Still, in the last 10 minutes we should have scored - we created chances and got in the box a lot but we just lacked that final touch.
“The build-up was great, we just have to fully commit and give yourself up to score. It's just that final bit. Simplicity is sometimes best in the box – you see the goal, you shoot.
“We get into the box so often that to only have one goal is not good enough. Then, at the other end, to concede just four shots and for three to go in isn't good enough either.”
Martin added: “I'm extremely disappointed with the result, but there was a lot for us to look at and be pleased with.”
The Dons have an opportunity to bounce back on Tuesday when they welcome Shrewsbury Town to Stadium MK. While the Shrews sit five places and five points behind Martin and his men in the Sky Bet League One table, the boss believes it’s just as important as any other.
“They're all important games for us so it doesn't change the process,” he said.
“We were unbeaten in four before this, so we have to bounce back. If they can match the performance of today, and be a bit cooler in both boxes, then I'm confident we will do that.”
Martin also provided an update on Cameron Jerome, who limped off late in Saturday’s defeat. The manager expects his striker to be available for Tuesday’s clash at Stadium MK.
“Cameron is fine, he just felt a bit tight in the back. He took a whack in the first half and it tightened up, so him coming off was precautionary. He'll be fine.”
