Tony Craig said getting 90 minutes under his belt was very important.
The centre half played the full match as Brentford beat OGC Nice 3-2 at Griffin Park yesterday.
Andre Gray scored the first and Alex Pritchard added two more as Brentford got the win.
Nice had equalised Gray’s goal and pulled one back late in the first half to make it 3-2 but The Bees had enough to get over the line.
Tony said Nice presented a good test.
“I am feeling it now, my legs are heavy,” said the defender, reflecting on playing 90 minutes.
“It was a good test today; Nice came here, moved the ball round the pitch and gave us a taste of our own medicine.
“They played like we do and it was a good game to be involved in.
“The first 90 minutes is massive.
“I am pleased to get it.
“My lungs are feeling it but we move on to Tuesday.
“It’s a bit selfish but you want to play that 90 minutes ASAP.”
Tony admitted he did not enjoy pre-season but stressed how important it was.
The Bees spent the first part of July in a training camp in America and Tony said he thoroughly enjoyed it.
“This is my 15th or 16th pre-season,” said the defender.
“It is something I don’t enjoy, it is hard but it is important for match fitness and has to be done.
“The more you put in, it puts you in good stead for the season.
“America was fantastic.
“The facilities were first class and thoroughly enjoyed it.
“I have been on some pre-season tours and been locked in.
“This was hard work but with down time.
“It was a good exercise.
“The humidity was unbelievable there and hopefully it will stand us in good stead for the season.”
Tony said Nice caused Brentford problems but it was a good game to be involved in.
He said Brentford had a way of playing in winning promotion from League One last term and he hoped they could stick to it.
“It was a good game,” said Tony.
“There were two very good passing teams and it was a good game to be involved in.
“It was end-to-end.
“They caused us problems at the back and passed the ball nicely.
“We have a way we play, it worked well last season and hopefully we can stick to it and please the crowd.
“It is fun to watch and sometimes it is a pleasure to be involved in.
“We are looking forward to the season starting.”
There are now less than two weeks until the start of The Championship on August 9.
Tony said he could not wait for the challenge.
He added the competition for places all over the pitch was driving players on.
“I can’t wait,” said Tony.
“I came to this Club to get back to The Championship ASAP.
“We did it last season.
“I am looking forward to it and it’s a great challenge.
“Competition brings the best out in players.
“You should thrive under pressure; there are people that want your shirt.
“It is a great time ahead for Brentford Football Club.”
A full post-match interview with Tony Craig is available here for Bees Player subscribers.