Manager Frankie Bunn was left disappointed with the defeat his Oldham Athletic side faced on Saturday against Exeter City.
Latics led twice through Sam Surridge and Callum Lang, but a Jayden Stockley hat-trick ended the squads six game unbeaten league run.
Bunn felt his side needed to defend their leads better after conceding some sloppy goals.
“It's a disappointing result, especially on the back of a terrific run, but when you score two goals you expect to keep a lead.” He said.
“We've lost the lead twice then conceded the third so disappointed with some of the defending albeit they've had three or four chances and taken them.
“An error picking up people on the corner and then we've worked on Stockley in the box and the positions he takes up and unfortunately, we weren't aware.”
Latics began the day two points behind their Devon opponents with a chance to potentially sneak into the playoff positions.
However, it turned out to be a missed opportunity for the side, but Bunn was quick to remind everyone about the progress the squad was making.
“We've done great to get into the position we've got into and the next step would have been a win today to cement where we have got to.” He commented.
“It was a chance to improve on that and make a statement, but it wasn't to be, so we'll have to bounce back like we've done on several occasions.”
Bunn and his players were also left frustrated with the officiating once again after Jordan Lyden was wiped out in the penalty area in the 90th minute.
“I don't even know anymore, I thought it was a penalty, but it's not been given so it is what it is.”
Next up for Latics is a trip to Carlisle United on Boxing Day who were 1-3 winners at Boundary Park earlier in the season.
The festive period provides a quick turnaround for teams and Bunn is confident his side can bounce back.
“The turnaround is quick, so we'll be on the front foot again and try to recover from this defeat.
“We're motivated every week, it doesn't matter where we go, we're always motivated to win games.
“It's two losses in ten games, including the cups so we'll pick ourselves up and go again.”