AFC Fylde manager Dave Challinor believes Saturday’s match against Tranmere Rovers was a ‘lightbulb moment’ for his side as they prepare for the start of the new National League North season this weekend.

The Coasters were beaten 4-1 by the National League side and Challinor is aware that there is still plently of work to be done this week ahead of Saturday’s trip to AFC Telford United.

“We weren’t great and they were very good so the combination of the two didn’t work out well for us.

“We conceded some poor goals but I’d rather be conceding them now than next weekend. All the goals were preventable but the biggest disappointment was that we created several chances and didn’t stick them away.

“In the first half we were bullied and we were off the pace and hopefully it was a lightbulb moment for the lads because that is the level we are aspiring to. We are under no illusions though, we are a long way short at the moment.

“We have shown in the past that we are more than capable of completing at that level but if you’re not at it all the time then you will get beat.

“We have a big week ahead now and we have plenty of work to do before the season starts but we will meet that challenge head on.

“It has been a good pre-season overall for us, plus we have had to manage the transition from part-time to full time but it’s time for action now.”