OXFORD United’s slow start was asking for trouble against Shrewsbury Town, according to Marvin Johnson.

The home side went into the game bottom of Sky Bet League One with only two wins all season, but a sloppy United allowed them to take the initiative.

AJ Leitch-Smith opened the scoring on 19 minutes after a mistake by Simon Eastwood.

All over the pitch the U’s were off the pace and it took the half-time interval to compose themselves.

Although an improved display led to chances being created, none were taken and the Shrews sealed a 2-0 win through Shaun Whalley in the final seconds.

Johnson said: “We can’t afford to start games like that.

“If we had gone in 0-0 at half-time we would have taken it. Unfortunately they got the sloppy goal and it gave us a mountain to climb.

“You’ve always got to earn the right to play first and foremost, no matter who you’re playing.

“If you go one or two goals up you can start playing and really show the side you are.

“But from the kick-off you have to roll your sleeves up and let the team know it’s not going to be an easy day for them.”

Johnson was one of four players recruited for six-figure fees during the summer.

Considering the quality in the squad, the winger knows 20th place in League One means they are underachieving.

“Definitely,” he said.

“There’s no doubt there is talent there, we’ve shown that. We just need to get the hard work and the talent and put it together.”