Scott McKenna says Nottingham Forest must stop giving themselves “an uphill battle” as they aim to cut out defensive mistakes.
For the third game in a row, the Reds came from behind to draw 1-1 on Wednesday night, as they returned with a point from their trip to Luton Town.
They have yet to concede in open play in Chris Hughton’s four matches in charge. But starting slowly, only to improve in the second half of fixtures, is a habit they are keen to break.
And McKenna knows Forest need to defend better at set-pieces.
“It was important to at least come away with a point, it’s just frustrating with the manner we’re conceding goals,” he told NottinghamshireLive, ahead of today’s visit to Middlesbrough.
“We’re giving ourselves an uphill battle in every game by going a goal down before we actually start to play.
“Set-plays and penalties happen. It was a moment of quality, against Derby, with a free-kick which went right into the top corner. But against Luton, from a corner, it was disappointing because we had a couple of chances to try to clear it.
“On the other hand, we’re not conceding from open play, which is a positive.
“It will come. Hopefully if we eradicate those mistakes and start getting goals at the other end, we can start picking up three points.
“We just need to tidy up a bit at set-plays and not give away cheap free-kicks.
“I’m not exactly sure why we have started slowly in games, but it’s definitely something the manager has tried to address.
“It’s up to us as players to make sure we are ready to go from the first whistle, rather than waiting for the second half to really kick on.
“I’m sure with time, it will come.”
McKenna has made five appearances in the Garibaldi since his move from Aberdeen, and is enjoying his first experience of the Championship.
He has also developed a strong partnership with Tobias Figueiredo in the heart of the defence.
“He’s excellent to play with,” he said of his Portuguese teammate.
“I just feel that if I make a mistake, he’s there to cover me. Hopefully he feels the same way.
“That’s exactly what you need in a centre-back partnership.
“I feel I’ve settled in pretty well.
“The lads have made me feel very welcome and playing games brings confidence, so I’m really enjoying it so far.
“The biggest change is probably how thick and fast the games come.
“As soon as one game finishes, your focus shifts to the next one.
“It’s a good standard and it’s demanding, but I’m really enjoying it.
“The manager has been brilliant since he came in.
“He likes us to keep our shape and keep our discipline.
“I’m enjoying learning from him.”
