Shaun Barker says Derby County must return to being a solid defensive unit sooner rather than later following today's 3-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion.
Derby looked to be on course for an away-day victory at the Hawthorns when Chris Porter fired the Rams into the lead early in the second half.
But three goals in the final twenty-three minutes from the home side put paid to hopes of a third win on the road this season.
The Rams have conceded seven goals in their last three games and Barker says Derby must quickly get back to keeping clean sheets in order to return to winning ways.
He said post-match at the Hawthorns: "We made a few mistakes and we got punished today which hasn't been the case of late.
"We have to get back to the way we were a few weeks ago when we were keeping clean sheets and only conceding the odd goal.
"I think for a good hour today we were very comfortable and played well.
"We had to defend a little in the first half when they had a few chances, but I think we were the better side and deserved to be ahead when Ports scored.
"From looking comfortable there was the mistake between myself and Jake Buxton which allowed West Brom a way back into the game, which they took when Brunt scored.
"It cost us ultimately, and we're both big enough to admit it.
"It changed the game and they added a few more which is bitterly disappointing.
"If we had come here and been battered you could understand it, but we played well and that is what is hard to take."
Barker is already targeting a return to winning ways next Saturday when Derby welcome Watford to Pride Park.
The Rams will be looking to do the double over the Hornets after their 1-0 success at Vicarage Road in December.
"We will be going into Watford in a confident frame of mind, and we know have to bounce back from this defeat," said Barker.
