STANLEY boss John Coleman has challenged his side to be more ruthless in front of goal following their 4-1 defeat against Plymouth.

Jordan Houghton, Ryan Broom and Ryan Hardie were on target for the visitors, plus an Ethan Hamilton own goal.

Tommy Leigh got on the scoresheet for the Reds early in the second half – his first league goal.

Coleman felt there were plenty of positives from his side’s performance but insists Plymouth showed “why they are top of the league”.

“It was a smashing game of two teams playing good football but we have to find a way to defend better,” said the Stanley chief.

“Was it a 4-1? I didn’t think so but that’s the fact. We had 18 shots on goal to their nine but they had seven on target and we had two.

“We need to be more clinical. We gifted them the first goal and then the goal before half-time was a big blow.

“We came out all guns blazing after, scored and put them on the back foot but then a moment of brilliance, Ryan Broom’s was a very good goal and he was a thorn in our side all game.

“We rolled our sleeves up and put them back on the rack and made great chances but then they have gone up, we haven’t cleared the ball and it’s a simple header for their lad.

“You can see why they are top of the league. They’re are a good side but I think we matched them in every department except putting the ball in the back of the net.”

Coleman’s men are back in action on Saturday, November 20 when they welcome Sheffield Wednesday to the Wham Stadium (KO 3pm).