In-form Northampton surprised promotion hopefuls Shrewsbury by taking a two-goal lead and then 'defending for their lives' in the words of manager Chris Wilder after the hosts pulled a goal back late on.
Mellon told BBC Radio Shropshire: "I think we have to give Northampton great credit for putting in that type of performance here.
"We can't afford to give ourselves too much to do in a game. Our side will always fight back, but we've ran out time to get level - but to give the opening goal away was disappointing."
Having shown that their recent good form can be replicated against any side in the division, the Cobblers continue their unlikely quest for a play-off place against Portsmouth on Tuesday night.
Town's excellent form and a healthy away support should ensure a good Sixfields crowd with Wilder saying: "We have to make sure we don't lower our performance levels."