Mark Atkinson was left disappointed by the manner of his side’s against Derby County on Saturday.
It was an afternoon to forget at the Academy of Light for Atkinson’s side who rarely tested the Rams’ stopper.
Fuseine Rashid broke the deadlock on 17 minutes before the Lads responded through Lee Connelly who saw his effort cleared off the line.
But Derby went from strength to strength in the second 45, with Jordan Mitchell and Connor Dixon netting further goals to wrap up the points for the Rams.
Speaking to safc.com, Atkinson was left disappointed by his side’s performance.
“We weren’t at the races today so it is frustrating,” he said.
“There were a lot good things against Newcastle last weekend but they weren’t there against Derby.
“It was poor and we didn’t play with the intensity and purpose that was there last week.
“We were beaten by the better team but I have got to be honest, Derby were good and they impressed me.
“We have got to be better and make sure we work a lot harder in all areas.
“It was a hard afternoon but now we have got to pick ourselves and improve after the international break,” he continued.
“I was impressed with how Derby played, they had some good movement and always looked to play it forward.”