Speaking after our goalless draw with Nottingham Forest on Saturday, Luca Connell was pleased to have completed 90 minutes ahead of the new campaign.
With the season just under two weeks away now, Nottingham Forest were the opponents in the first of two Oakwell friendlies this summer.
The experience was one Luca found pleasing, against challenging opposition and in tough conditions.
"It was tough," admitted Luca. "We played great opposition but it was good to get it in the bank and hopefully we can build from this.
"It was brilliant to be out there; it's my first time playing at Oakwell and it was good to play in front of the fans."
The 21-year-old is one of six summer signings the Reds have made so far, with James Norwood being the most recent addition, signing an hour before kick-off on Saturday.
Connell believes the squad is gelling together well ahead of the new campaign.
"It's felt perfect to be honest." He explained. "I think it's all good. Even the new signings, as I did, have come in and fit in straight away. It's a young team, so we have a lot in common with each other."
Only a couple of pre-season friendlies remain for Michael Duff's side, with the Reds making the trip to Harrogate on Wednesday evening before taking on near-neighbours Sheffield United back on home soil next Saturday.
The former Celtic midfielder believes that building fitness is the main takeaway from these fixtures, without neglecting the importance of emerging victorious after the full-time whistle.
"It's mainly to get minutes under the belt." Acknowledged Luca. "Just get everyone 90 minutes so they're confident going into the first game.
"The gaffer has drilled it into us that we want to win games, no matter if it's pre-season or training, or in the league. We need to win games."
