They drew 3-3 against Algarve hosts Portimonense SC – despite taking the lead three times through Michael Rankine, Daryl Clare and Curtis Woodhouse.

Diamonds boss Hill said: "It was a good work-out.
"We knew it was going to be hot out here but the temperature was probably 80C in the early evening when we were playing.

"This was our first proper game in pre-season so it was important to give a run-out for everyone over 45 to 60 minutes.

"I thought we started off very brightly and created a few chances. Rankine scored and then Clare put us 2-1 up with a great goal.

"Woodhouse made it 3-2 but they scored again right at the end. However the result isn't the be all and end all.

"It was a very competitive game and beneficial to us. It's humid here so that makes it very hard for the players."

Andy Burgess – who took a knock in last week's opening 7-0 win at Essex side Halstead Town – missed out while Rob Wolleaston is still waiting to make his first appearance since signing from Cambridge United.

The Diamonds squad on duty in Portugal includes trialists Justin Roberts, Gareth Jelleyman and Sagi Burton.

They take on Coca-Cola Championship club Bristol City on Friday night before heading back home over the weekend.