DARWEN slumped to another disappointing defeat with a 2-1 reverse at Ashton Town.
A combination of poor finishing and slack marking contributed to the visitors' downfall and boss Steve Wilkes said: "Both Ashton's goals were real gifts and we could have done a lot better with a whole host of chances we created at the other end.
"Things have got to change, we can't continue defending like we are."
Craig Shaw wasted two early opportunities for Darwen and Denny Khan's first-time shot missed the target after good work from Daniel Stubberfield.
Ten minutes before half-time Barry Edwardson scored with a free header to give the hosts the lead after slipping free from marker Steve Pickup.
A poor first touch from Stubberfield saw a chance go begging in the second period before Andy Walsh equalised from the penalty spot after being brought down by Neil Melling.
Paul Atherton once again found too much room in the six-yard box to restore his side's advantage and in turn spark a prolonged spell of Darwen pressure.
Mark Westhead failed to convert when clean through, Neil Almond missed two chances and Denny Khan nicked the ball off the better positioned Ben Jackson as the visitors failed to snatch a point.
ASHTON TOWN...2
DARWEN...1
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