CHERRIES’ development squad were beaten 2-0 by Spanish second tier side FC Cartagena as they stepped up their pre-season preparations.

Alan Connell’s side are in Spain for a training camp and fell to defeat, conceding twice in the second half.

Cherries’ side included the likes of Dominic Sadi and new signing Koby Mottoh.

After a goalless first half, Alfredo Ortunom broke the deadlock moments after the restart, before Baldo doubled the lead just before the hour mark.

There was more bad news for Cherries, who lost Archie Harris due to injury.

Reflecting on the defeat to the side who finished 14th in La Liga 2 last season, boss Connell told Cherries’ club website: “It was a great experience for everyone involved.

“They are a very high-level team in Spain with some really outstanding individuals. We knew it was going to be a tough test.

“Overall, the experience was so rich for everyone.

“The quality setup here at Pinatar and playing against that quality of opponent in Cartagena was probably a bit mind-opening for our players.”

He added: “I was really pleased with how we competed. I thought our attitude to work was outstanding.”

Connell’s side face Nottingham Forest B on Sunday (11am).