Bradford Park Avenue were at Causeway Lane on Tuesday night for Matlock's first home league game of the season, and having beaten Prescot Cables 4-0 on the opening day, they inflicted the same scoreline on the Gladiators (match reports, page 34).

“I don't think we're going to come up against as strong a side as Bradford, well organised, difficult to break down and having some great forwards, but to be honest, having said that, it was never a 4-0 game,” said Brown.

“We came up against a very strong and a very good side tonight (Tuesday) but we created a lot of chances and could have got back into it.

“We had two or three great opportunities just after half time that would have put us right back in the game but when you're up against a quality side like Bradford you've got to be ruthless and take them or be punished.

“Then we make another naive mistake and find ourselves 3-0 down.”

Brown admitted his team's defending in the opening two fixtures, which has seen them leak seven goals, has not been good enough.

“We gifted FC United two of their goals which is disappointing and we've been generous against Bradford although I felt we missed Ashley Foyle against two big strong lads on Tuesday,” said Brown.

“It has to be said that as a unit we didn't defend well.

“Obviously we wanted more than just a point from the two opening games but it's early days yet.”

Matlock have fielded attacking looking line ups in the two matches so far.

"We've used this system for four games now and people have been delighted with our attacking play,” said Brown.

“Tuesday saw our first defeat playing this way and we've just got to accept that we've come up against one of the strongest sides we'll play against.

“On another day how many goals could we have got?

“I think people can see we've got a very young side who like to play attacking football, but we found out on Tuesday what a tough league we're in this season. We were naive, showed that lack of experience and were outmuscled.”

Foyle will return to the squad for the August Bank Holiday fixtures after missing the Bradford game attending a family funeral.

Whitby Town, pointless and goalless after their first two games at home to Buxton and away at Frickley Athletic, visit Causeway Lane on Saturday with the Gladiators travelling to Guiseley on Monday afternoon.

“We want to get that first win and need to put things right against Whitby.

“We've got a young squad with plenty of quality players and a good win in front of the home fans will do wonders for everyone.

“Everyone's fit and I'm sure the lads will be raring to go,” said Brown.

“The Guiseley match will be difficult.

“Like Bradford they've spent a lot of money, but we'll go up there looking for the three points.”

Meanwhile Matlock added to their squad late last week with the signings of winger Luke Federenko, released by Barnsley, and goalkeeper Paddy Foster, formerly with Walsall and Tamworth.