Kenny Jackett is looking for signs of progress when Pompey visit Stevenage this weekend.
Victories have been secured in both of the previous friendlies, with a 4-1 win at Cork followed by a 2-1 triumph over the Hawks.
But Jackett was disappointed with the overall display at Westleigh Park last Saturday, particularly before the break.
And now he is looking forward to seeing how they fare in the first of two games against EFL opposition.
The Blues boss said: “It was a performance that lacked any real enthusiasm last week and so I’m looking for an improvement.
"We’re certainly going to need to step up our performance levels – there should be a general increase as we move towards August 4."
“We’ve worked hard again in training, which is something that is particularly important during the pre-season period.
“And we’re certainly going to need to step up our performance levels – there should be a general increase as we move towards August 4.
“We’re facing Football League opposition now in Stevenage and Swindon and they’ll both be tests for us.
“It’s good solid opposition for us away from home as we make sure that we keep improving our match fitness.
“We’ll be playing a first team in these fixtures, while it will be a younger side in between at Gosport and Bognor.
“But we need that step up on Saturday. We’re looking forward to the game and seeing the fitness and cohesion of our players.”
Pompey’s squad is almost at full strength ahead of the trip to Broadhall Way, although they will be missing a midfielder.
Jackett said: “Ben Close won’t be risked this weekend because he’s got a tight hamstring. We’re not too worried, though, because we have time to get him fit and ready.”