ST ALBANS City gave a good account of themselves as they were beaten 3-1 by the Belarus Olympic Games team in Colchester this afternoon.

Saints used the game as a pre-season workout and fielded a total of 23 players during the match against international opposition.

The first City XI led 1-0 at half-time after striker Simon Martin had found the back of the net.

Belarus, who are in same Olympic Games group as gold medal favourites Brazil, found their way back into the match in the second half as they levelled and went on to triumph 3-1 as City made a host of changes to their line-up.

After the game St Albans boss David Howell tweeted: “23 players used but the 1st starting XI led 1-0 at HT through Simon Martin. Good workout for both teams.”

A second St Albans City XI took on near neighbours Colney Heath at the Recreation Ground and fell to a 6-4 defeat, City netted through Aaron Lansiquot, Dave Parkinson, an own goal and Eligh Ogunsewe.

St Albans City’s next friendly is on Saturday, July 21 as they entertain League 2 Barnet at Clarence Park, the following Monday (July 23) they host Luton Town.

See the link above right for the Saints full pre-season fixture list.