WANDERERS boss Gareth Ainsworth said he's relishing a more physical challenge for his players as they near the end of pre season.

Last night's game with Bucks neighbours Chesham United had the feel of a competitive fixture rather than a friendly, with tackles flying in from players on both sides.

Ainsworth said it was the sort of exercise his team needed - and he's not expecting a let-up in their three remaining friendly matches.

He said: "They weren't holding back at all and had a strong team out. We had a challenge on our hands.

"Now we are getting closer to the season the games do get more competitive. They ramp up now.

"The tackles that come in, you need to be up to speed for the first game. Nothing can recreate that first game but the Reading and Barnet games will be feisty affairs, especially the Barnet game with Martin Allen coming up. He's always got a trick or two up his sleeve - we'll have to be on it."

Ainsworth had mixed feelings about the 2-2 draw at The Meadow, saying he was impressed with his side's attacking play but less so with the defending.

Chesham twice took advantage of uncertainty in the Blues backline to surge into a 2-0 lead, but two goals in a minute from a Sido Jombati header and a Max Kretzschmar thunderbolt tied the game up again.

Wanderers thought they'd won it late on, but a Paul Hayes tap-in was ruled out for offside.

Ainsworth said: "I thought we conceded two sloppy goals to be fair - I was very disappointed in them - but the way we bounced back was fantastic.

"We created many more chances and I thought we could have nicked one. Hayesy's goal was probably onside, he was unfortunate for that one not to count.

"It was a good game of football for the neutral to watch.

"I was really pleased with some of our attacking play, which is what we lacked last year. Some of the interplay around the box and the finishing was just lacking, but the chances we were creating were very pleasing. I'm sure we can build on that."