The message from Karl Robinson and his players after the defeat at AFC Wimbledon a fortnight ago was that they would learn from the experience.

Last weekend’s 0-0 draw with Wycombe Wanderers suggested they had as the U’s showed a welcome resilience, especially against set-pieces – the area that did the damage at Plough Lane.

The Chairboys were the perfect side to put that to the test and it was encouraging to see United come out the other side.

But they will be back to square one if set-pieces cost them at Cheltenham Town tomorrow.

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United’s long unbeaten runs in the last two seasons began with a string of solid defensive displays.

After poor starts, the U’s tightened up at the back and stormed up the table.

Every team is a work in progress at this stage of the season, no matter how good their early results are.

United’s challenge is to fix their weaknesses quicker than the rest of Sky Bet League One.

There are other areas to improve, but another resilient display tomorrow would be a big step in the right direction.