Northampton were given a lesson at Kingsholm on Saturday as they fell to a 33-10 defeat, their heaviest loss of the season.

Mallinder was disappointed in his defence that let in four tries, and in his attack, where numerous opportunities were squandered in an error-strewn performance.

The Saints director of rugby feels accuracy at both ends of the pitch was the difference between the two sides, the game ending with Mallinder's men slipping to 10th and the Cherry & Whites moving up to second.

"We've got to keep working on our game," said Mallinder. "We've got to make sure we rebuild again and are fighting fit ahead of the European Challenge Cup games.

"We were inaccurate in attack and defence. You've got to take all the opportunities you possibly can at places like Kingsholm and we didn't do that.

"Gloucester were very accurate, and they took their chances. We did lose a lot of ball and probably forced too much instead of looking after it.

"It is disappointing if you concede that many tries, especially the first one from set-piece. Our defence is something we have got to work on.

"We were well beaten, we came second best."