Stags must learn their lessons
Despite taking the lead through Scott Garner, they were outclassed in the second half as they lost 4-1 and both teams were reduced to ten men.
"I felt we gave them too much space and gave them too much respect and it's a harsh lesson," said Holdsworth.
"We must take responsibility and perform at that level if we are to compete.
"They are a very good side, with a strong squad, and I am not taking that away from them or Mick Harford.
"But we have some good players here at Mansfield. Luton did what we try to do to other teams and it is not very nice to be on the receiving end.
"They are a young team but it doesn't matter whether you are old or young, if you give space to people of quality and high standards, they will dominate.
"There are lessons for some of our players to learn and some will find out when I make my selection for Saturday."
Holdsworth was disappointed to see the Stags concede twice from set pieces, something they have worked hard on in pre-season.
He said: "It was the little things that cost us and two set pieces have hurt me and the players. I felt we were well in the game and didn't look like we were going to concede.
"To concede from two set pieces isn't like us at all. It is really strange, but people have put their hands up in the dressing room and we move on.
"I am not going to criticise the players too much – that will stay in-house. But people know they need to step up."
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