AFC Telford United assistant manager Larry Chambers insists his side’s defending must improve after their 38-game unbeaten league run came to a shuddering end against Whitby Town.

Chambers and boss Rob Smith tasted defeat for the first time in the UniBond League premier division when the visitors stunned the leaders with a 3-1 win at New Bucks Head on Saturday.

Telford are now level on points with Hednesford Town, who they face on Boxing Day, after their defence was given a stern test by Tom Raw and Danny Brunskill, who both scored. Steve Foster, pictured, scored Telford’s goal from the penalty spot.

Chambers believes the real test for his side will be how they respond to losing the unbeaten record.

“It was nice to keep it going for as long as possible and its disappointing it’s happened, but it had to happen sooner or later,” said Chambers.

“We didn’t approach anything in a different way. The bottom line was we just didn’t perform and it was an unacceptable performance.

“We didn’t defend well. Their two lads upfront gave us a bit of a tough time. I don’t think Indy Khela, Richard Teesdale or Jimmy Turner were given an easy time all game.

“It was difficult for us but to concede a goal the way we did from a set piece when we have given people jobs and responsibilities is disappointing and it’s always an uphill battle from then on against a side like Whitby.

“If you look at our goals against away from home its much better than at home. We do keep conceding stupid goals at home. We spoke about it and worked on it but it made no difference.

“We always said the test of this side would be how they react - both myself, Rob and the players. It will be a good test for us. We’ve got Grantham next week away which is another tricky game.

“It has given us all a kick up the backside. The lads have been told in no uncertain terms it was an unacceptable performance and we’ll move on and put that behind us.”