Keith Curle was disappointed with the defending that cost the Magpies both goals in the 2-1 defeat to MK Dons.
Midfielder Darren Potter gave the Dons a sixth minute lead, when he guided Ryan Harley’s set-piece past County stopper Bartosz Bialkowski, after being poorly marked.
On 13, the visitors doubled their advantage through wideman Daniel Powell, who was allowed to trick his way into the box, before prodding into the bottom corner.
Curle explained that the damage was already done by half time and that it was always going to be difficult to overcome a two-goal deficit against one of the league’s top outfits.
He said: “It was very disappointing, even though we played against a good team, we didn’t ask them enough questions early on.
“We gifted them two goals and, home or away, if you gift teams goals you’re going to find it difficult.
“With the free-kick, we’ve got to mark better in our own box and the second one it’s poor defending on the edge of our box that allows them to get a shot off.”
Following a disappointing opening 45, the Magpies were much improved after the break and Jamal Campbell-Ryce deservedly pulled a goal back from the spot.
Chances for the likes of Lee Hughes, Yoann Arquin and Alan Judge were unfortunate not to earn a share of the spoils, and Notts crashed to a sixth home league loss of 2012.13.
“The performance in the second half showed what we’re about and we’ve got to start games at Meadow Lane like that,” Curle continued.
“We created some good opportunities and should have got something out of the game.
“We just needed that little bit of luck, that little break that you need in the box, but the ball just wasn’t quite falling right for us – but, it will do.”
He added: “I’m as frustrated as anyone and I know that the owners are very frustrated because it does affect us.”
Curle is in talks with a number of players at the end of their contracts, including Tom Williams, Carl Regan, Jordan Stewart and Damion Stewart, as well as loan pair Chris Iwelumo and Andre Boucaud.
An announcement over the players’ futures will be made on Thursday.
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