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Match Preview - Sat 22 September 2018 Braintree T v Maidstone U Last season, Maidstone U finished 19th in the Vanarama National League on 54 points. They are currently 22nd on 7 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 7 D 6 L 10 GF 27 GA 33 Pts 27. Their away record this season is: P 5 W 1 D 0 L 4 GF 4 GA 9 Pts 3. Away results this season: Won 1-2 v Dagenham & R, Lost 3-0 v F C Halifax T, Lost 3-2 v Maidenhead U, Lost 1-0 v Gateshead, Lost 1-0 v Salford C. Top scorers last season: Joe Pigott (now AFC Wimbledon) - 12, Zavon Hines (now Chesterfield) - 7, Alex Wynter (now Eastleigh) - 5. Scorers this season: Blair Turgott - 5 (2p), Shamir Mullins - 2, Jack Paxman - 1 Braintree Town are currently 23rd on 6 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 5 W 0 D 1 L 4 GF 4 GA 10 Pts 1. Braintree T home results this season: Lost 0-1 v Wrexham, Lost 0-2 v Maidenhead U, Lost 3-4 v Havant & W, Drew 1-1 v Hartlepool U, Lost 0-2 v FC Halifax T. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, Joe Ellul & OG - 1. Just over a week ago, Maidstone U appointed former Billericay T boss Harry Wheeler as manager. He replaces Steve Watt who was in charge for three matches after the departure of Jay Saunders at the end of August. Maidstone's current squad includes former loanee Ollie Muldoon who was at Cressing Road from Charlton A during the 2016/17 season and may also include a player that played for Iron earlier this season. Iron Manager Brad Quinton has released defender/midfielder Olu Durojaiye, who played seven games for Iron in August and we understand that the 25-year old will now be joining the Kent club. The Stones have lost their last 6 matches, failing to find the net in the last four. Iron meanwhile grabbed a very welcome and overdue first win of the season at Gateshead last time out. Now they go in search of that first home win and victory would give them the opportunity to move above the Stones. Tickets for Leyton Orient Tuesday Larger than usual crowd expected - supporters advised to purchase tickets For our Vanarama National League fixture at home to Leyton Orient on Tuesday, 25th September, segregation WILL be in force. This game will NOT be all ticket and supporters will be able to pay on the gate on the day. However, supporters of both clubs are strongly advised to purchase tickets in advance to reduce congestion at the turnstiles. This match is a Category A fixture and admission prices for this match can be found by clicking the 'Tickets' link above. Tickets for Leyton Orient supporters are available online at onlyoneorient.com or in person at the Breyer Group Stadium. Tickets are on general sale from 9.30am on Wednesday 19 September. Tickets will go off sale on Monday 24 September at 4.30pm. Tickets for Braintree Town supporters will be available from the Clubhouse on Thursday evening, 20th September, from 7.30pm - 9pm and after Saturday's game against Maidstone from 5pm in the Clubhouse. To gain entry to the ground next Tuesday, visiting spectators should use the two turnstiles to the right of the Main Stand and clubhouse, numbered 7 and 8. Home spectators should use the four turnstiles to the left on the clubhouse, numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4. Season ticket holders should use gates 5 and 6. A full colour matchday programme will be on sale inside the ground adjacent to the turnstiles. The Club are mindful of the limited parking we have available at the ground. Following the advice received from Essex Police, the Club have decided to charge for entry into the car park - with a flat rate of £3 for all users. Essex Police have also suggested that the car park be closed prior to kick-off to ensure that there is no congestion between pedestrian spectators and vehicles. No vehicles will be allowed entry into the car park within thirty minutes prior to kick-off. Those travelling to the Cressing Road Stadium for the first time can find more information on how best to travel by clicking on the 'Find Us' link above. The Clubhouse at the Cressing Road Stadium can only be accessed from inside the designated home section of the ground. Those spectators wishing to use the segregated part of the ground reserved for visiting supporters may wish to visit The Orange Tree public house some 300 yards from the ground on Cressing Road between the ground and Galley's Corner roundabout prior to entering the ground. For further information, please contact the Club on 01376 345617. Segregation Saturday for Maidstone Fans are advised to arrive a little earlier than usual For our Vanarama National League fixture at home to Maidstone United on Saturday, 22nd September, segregation WILL be in force. However, this game will NOT be all ticket and no tickets will be available for sale prior to the match. This match is a Category B fixture and admission prices for this match can be found by clicking the 'Tickets' link above. To gain entry to the ground, visiting spectators should use the two turnstiles to the right of the Main Stand and clubhouse, numbered 7 and 8. Home spectators should use the four turnstiles to the left on the clubhouse, numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4. Season ticket holders should use gates 5 and 6. A full colour matchday programme will be on sale inside the ground adjacent to the turnstiles. The Club are mindful of the limited parking we have available at the ground. Following the advice received from Essex Police, the Club have decided to charge for entry into the car park - with a flat rate of £3 for all users. Essex Police have also suggested that the car park be closed prior to kick-off to ensure that there is no congestion between pedestrian spectators and vehicles. No vehicles will be allowed entry into the car park within thirty minutes prior to kick-off. Those travelling to the Cressing Road Stadium for the first time can find more information on how best to travel by clicking on the 'Find Us' link above. The Clubhouse at the Cressing Road Stadium can only be accessed from inside the designated home section of the ground. Those spectators wishing to use the segregated part of the ground reserved for visiting supporters may wish to visit The Orange Tree public house some 300 yards from the ground on Cressing Road between the ground and Galley's Corner roundabout prior to entering the ground. For further information, please contact the Club on 01376 345617. Iron secure first win Joe Ellul lifts Braintree off the bottom Braintree made the long journey up the A1 to visit Gateshead on Saturday afternoon and came home with three points from their first win of the season - lifting themselves off the foot of the Vanarama League table as a result. Iron matched their hosts during a cagey first forty-five minutes with the hosts struggling to find the target and a looping Reece Grant headed effort the best Iron chance of the half. It proved to be Iron that broke the deadlock ten minutes after the re-start. A dipping free-kick from Billy Crook deep on the right found Joe Ellul in the home six yard box and he threw himself to head the ball home. Wounded by the visitors taking the lead, Gateshead pushed forward, but Ben Killip was equal to Steve Rigg's header on 70 minutes and watched as JJ OÕDonnellÕs header sailed over late on. The strange decision to award six minutes of time added on passed without incident as Iron secured their first win of the campaign. After the game Iron boss Brad Quinton was pleased: "Thought we got what we deserved today, the lads all put in a shift and delighted for Joe to see him get the goal. We're all looking forward to Maidstone next week now." Braintree Town: Killip, James, Nieskens, Muleba, Ellul (Clark 68), Gabriel, Crook, Amaluzor (Della-Verde 61), Bettamer, Sagaf, Grant (Rowe 80). Subs not used: Pattison & Allen. Crowd 578. Match Preview - Sat 15 September 2018 Gateshead v Braintree T Gateshead finished 17th in the Vanarama National League last season on 54 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 8 D 8 L 7 GF 34 GA 27 Pts. They are currently 8th in the Vanarama National League on 17 points. Their home results this season: Won 2-1v Salford C, Won 2-1 v Dover A, Drew 1-1 v L. Orient, Won 1-0 v Maidstone U, Lost 2-3 v Harrogate T. Top scorers last season: Danny Johnson (now Motherwell) - 14, Jordan Burrow (now York C) - 10, Richard Peniket (now Alfreton T) & Wesley York (now York C) - 6. Top scorers this season: Luke Armstrong - 5(1p), Scott Boden - 2 (1p), Steven Rigg - 2. Braintree T are currently 24th in the Vanarama National League on 3 points. Braintree T away results this season: Lost 1-0 v Dagenham & R, Drew 1-1 v Boreham Wood, Lost 1-0 v AFC Barrow, Lost 1-0 v Chesterfield, Drew 1-1 v Barnet. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, OG - 1. Gateshead are under the new ownership of Dr Ranjan Varghese who took over the club in July this year. Dr Varghese has a background in shipping and is based in Hong Kong. Their manager is former Newcastle, Villa & Everton utility player, Steve Watson. Watson has undertaken a massive turnover of players during the summer no doubt backed by new funding. They recently lost their unbeaten home record to table toppers and new boys Harrogate T. The Iron has lost games recently due to fine margins and will travel north still seeking their first win back in the top flight of non-league football. Another big challenge for Brad and the boys awaits. Talking to David Nieskins From Helmond Sports via Barrow! DOB: 29/4/94 (24) Born: Sittard, Holland Previous Clubs: Helmond Sport, C S Vise, Waltwilder, KFC Houtvenne, Barrow Position: Centre Back Q. Do you have another job? A. No Q. Who do you support? A. Manchester U Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Rafael Varane (Real Madrid) Q. What are your interests away from the game? A. Shopping with my girlfriend Q. Which social media do you use? A. Facebook & Twitter Q. What are your strengths? A. Passing, heading, coaching, mentality, working hard for the team Q. You've played in the second tier of Dutch & Belgian football, how does that compare with the top tier of non-league football in England? A. In Holland it is more of a passing style, this League is more physical Q. Why did you decide to come to England, initially with Barrow? A. As a young boy I always wanted to play in England and it was arranged through my agent Q. You suffered a knee injury whilst playing for them and returned to Holland, how damaging was that injury? A. It was very damaging, it was the same injury I'd had about 6 years previously. I had to undergo 8 months of treatment. I still trained every day, in the gym, sometimes on the pitch Q. How did you end up at Braintree? A. I know a few people in this League and Brad knew my agent. Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Last season there was a guy at Halifax, he was bigger than me and difficult to play against. Q. Who is the best coach you've worked for? A. Brad - he has given me a lot of trust, also Paul Cox at Barrow. Q. How do you think you have done so far? A. In the 3 games so far, overall good. I made a mistake with my pass against Wrexham. I'm helping the younger players. Q. Why do you think we have conceded so many goals from corners and free-kicks? A. I don't know, we need to be more game wise, blocking etc. Q. Who has been your best centre back partner? A. Moussa Diarra at Barrow (now at Dover A) also Kody here, he speaks a lot and we help each other. Q. Who is the biggest moaner at the club? A. (Diplomatically) I don't know Q. Who is the best finisher in training? A. Reece Grant Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Mourinho, I speak to people who know him, he is a different person inside the dressing room. Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. 13/14th, not relegated.  The MANarama National League kicks off as Prostate Cancer UK and The National League partner Prostate Cancer UK and The National League The MANarama National League kicks off as Prostate Cancer UK and The National League partner. - Prostate Cancer UK has been named as the National League's first ever official charity partner for Season 2018/19. - In celebration of this partnership, for the first time in English football history, a league will re-brand mid-season. - Title sponsors of the league Vanarama has changed its name to MANarama throughout the month of September, and to support this initiative the National League will rebrand as MANarama until the Non-League Day on 13th October. The National League has chosen Prostate Cancer UK as its first ever official charity partner, to unite in the fight against the UK's most prevalent male cancer, a cancer that kills one man every 45 minutes. In a first for English (and world) Football a national football league will change its branding midseason. Vanarama, the title sponsor of the National League, is changing its name to MANarama throughout the month of September to raise awareness of a deadly cancer that every man should know about. The rebranding to MANarama features a new league logo that will draw attention to the fact that every forty-five minutes a man dies from Prostate Cancer - Vanarama's own site has also been completely re-branded to reflect its commitment to the fundraising drive. Prostate Cancer UK and the National League also unveiled a new captain's armband, which will be worn by all Club captains on Non-League Day on Saturday, October 13th. The clash will see all skippers proudly displaying the unique bright orange band, which includes the iconic Prostate Cancer UK logo, to illustrate their clubs' united stand against the most common cancer in men. Vanarama has also pledged to raise £150,000 in just 45 days from a vehicle-leasing incentive that runs across September, as they tell the nation to Ôlease a van, save a man'. Vanarama and its newly-launched car leasing platform, Motorama, will donate £50 for every vehicle leased from the start of September until Non-League Day, when a cheque will be presented on October 13th at FC Halifax Town vs Chesterfield live on BT Sport. The 45-day challenge reflects the tragic fact that every 45 minutes a man dies from prostate cancer. The plans have been hailed by long-serving television presenter Jeff Stelling, a lifelong Hartlepool United fan. Stelling, who has raised £800,000 for the charity during two March for Men events: "This partnership reinforces Prostate Cancer UK's work in football and how hugely important it is to raise awareness and funds to make a difference to the lives of men and their loved ones. "One man dies every 45 minutes from this disease, so we need to take action. The passionate fans in the National League - including my lot at Hartlepool United and throughout the non-league pyramid - represent the perfect platform for us to unite against the toughest opponent of all. "I know Vanarama have been long-time supporters of the charity so it's great to see them taking the bold move of rebranding the league to MANarama to help raise even more awareness. "Although more women now go to matches, it's still a stronghold of male life. A lot of these supporters at some stage in their life may get prostate cancer. The more they understand that the better, the more we can help beat it. For them, and for their friends and families." Andy Alderson CEO at Vanarama said: "We're ready to help tackle prostate cancer with the National League and Prostate Cancer UK. The charity does great work in football and so we thought we'd do our bit too. "The decision to change our name from Vanarama to MANarama was an easy one. The fact that more than 11,000 men die from prostate cancer in the UK each year is staggering and if us changing the league's name helps raise awareness of the disease for even one man, then that's a success for us." James Beeby, Director of Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK, said: "It's terrific to see the National League join us in the fight against the deadliest opponent of all, and, after backing us for a number of years, we once again thank Vanarama for their ongoing support. "We stand together in our quest to change the game for men and their families and the grassroots game is the perfect platform to do this. The money raised will fund ground-breaking research to help fight this disease and the awareness generated across the length and breadth of the country will be vital. "We thank the National League and Vanarama for creating this milestone moment and look forward to our most successful Non-League Day in October." National League Chief Executive Michael Tattersall said: "We're thrilled to announce our first ever official charity partner, Prostate Cancer UK. We couldn't think of a charity that better reflects our football values. Just like Prostate Cancer UK we want all our men united against the fight of this deadly disease. "In celebration of our partnership, and with the support of our title sponsors, Vanarama, we will re-brand the league to MANarama. This temporary change is a first for English football and we're proud to be a part of this historical moment." Many people are unaware that prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. It's a huge issue that cannot be ignored. In 2018 one man every 45 minutes will die from prostate cancer in the UK. That's more than 11,000 men this year. Based on current trends, if we ignore prostate cancer and do nothing, this number will rise to over 14,500 men a year by 2026. To find out more information about Prostate Cancer UK's work in football go to: www.prostatecanceruk.org/football. Iron continue to improve but promotion-chasing Wrexham net the decider Iron are still searching for their first league win of the season but they came so close to it at Cressing Road on Saturday going down again to only one goal - their fourth so far - against title chasing Wrexham despite putting in a much improved performance. The result was a harsh one because Iron for long periods of the game were the better side, playing well across the park and creating far more danger when attacking. The crucial only goal of the game came on 66 minutes and it stemmed from again another individual mistake trying to play the ball out from the back conceding an unnecessary corner in the process. The ball was swung over and visiting skipper Shaun Pearson rose over everyone else to head home by the despairing Iron keeper Ben Killip. It was rough justice on Iron who did more than enough over the 90 minutes to at least have earned a point. 'We were simply punished again by an individual mistake that cost us an unnecessary corner from which they scored,' said manager Brad Quinton. 'We know it's a cruel game but you can't afford such slip-ups at this level and my young players are learning the hard way.' He went on: 'I don't like to criticise referees but, on this occasion, I felt we had several injustices on the day - such as when they scored our defender Dave Nieksens was blatantly blocked off for challenging for the corner ball. 'Their striker Mike Fondop, having already been booked, then fouled Niesken with a high boot to his face which looked to be a second booking, but the referee failed to act,' he said. 'Hardly surprising their manager then immediately subbed him, but it's the inconsistency that is the most galling and there were incidents in the game where one of our players was clearly elbowed in the eye and another lost a tooth through a crude, unfair challenge - yet these incidents went unpunished.' 'I still feel we are now making progress, improved since the opening game of the season and we are going in the right direction," he continued. 'We need to cut out the silly individual mistakes and just need a win to boost everyone's confidence.' Iron certainly had the better of the first half that saw chances for Mo Bettamer and Justin Amaluzar going close and the on the half hour fit again Joe Ellul back in the heart of the defence saw his good header saved well by keeper Rob Lainton. The early part of the second half again saw half chances go begging for Iron with Thompson's fine header go just over the bar and a sharp Bettamer shot well held by Lainton. The visitors' goal naturally took the stuffing out of Iron for a period but full credit they came back strongly in the dying moments when in added injury time visiting defender Kevin Roberts came to his side's rescue clearing the ball almost off the line. So Iron continue to look for their win and next up is the long trip to Gateshead on Saturday for another league game, kick off 3pm. Braintree Town: Killip; James, Ellul (82 Grant), Nieskens, Gabriel; Lyons-Foster, Allen (63 Cook), Amaluzar, Sogaf; Bettamer, Thompson (67 Charles). Unused subs Clark, Webber. Attendance: 802. Referee: Adrian Quelch. Segregation Saturday for Wrexham Iron fans are advised to arrive a little earlier than usual For our Vanarama National League fixture against Wrexham on Saturday, 8th September, segregation WILL be in force. However, this game will NOT be all ticket and no tickets will be available for sale prior to the match. This match is a Category B fixture and admission prices for this match can be found by clicking the 'Tickets' link above. To gain entry to the ground, visiting spectators should use the two turnstiles to the right of the Main Stand and clubhouse, numbered 7 and 8. Home spectators should use the four turnstiles to the left on the clubhouse, numbered 1, 2, 3 and 4. Season ticket holders should use gates 5 and 6. A full colour matchday programme will be on sale inside the ground adjacent to the turnstiles. The Club are mindful of the limited parking we have available at the ground. Following the advice received from Essex Police, the Club have decided to charge for entry into the car park - with a flat rate of £3 for all users. Essex Police have also suggested that the car park be closed prior to kick-off to ensure that there is no congestion between pedestrian spectators and vehicles. No vehicles will be allowed entry into the car park within thirty minutes prior to kick-off. Those travelling to the Cressing Road Stadium for the first time can find more information on how best to travel by clicking on the 'Find Us' link above. The Clubhouse at the Cressing Road Stadium can only be accessed from inside the designated home section of the ground. Those spectators wishing to use the segregated part of the ground reserved for visiting supporters may wish to visit The Orange Tree public house some 300 yards from the ground on Cressing Road between the ground and Galley's Corner roundabout prior to entering the ground. For further information, please contact the Club on 01376 345617. Elliott Charles joins the squad Braintree Town manager Brad Quinton has added 28-year old striker Elliott Charles. Charles started his career with Barnet in May 2008 and made his debut against Brentford in August 2008. In January 2010, he signed for Kettering, before moving on to Dover Athletic in the summer of 2010. He was released at the end of the 2010-11 season. In September 2011, he joined Isthmian League side Hendon after a spell with Concord Rangers. In November 2012, Charles joined Eastbourne Borough, where he ended the season as the club's top scorer scoring 14 goals in 26 games. The summer of 2013 saw him return to Dover Athletic, before he re-signed for Eastbourne August 2014. Spells at Staines Town and Metropolitan Police, before rejoining Hendon in January 2017 followed. Last season, he joined Hampton & Richmond Borough in December 2017 and scored a Hat-Trick in his debut against Wealdstone. Charles was also called to play for Grenada the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification - CONCACAF Second Round, making two appearances in September 2011 against Belize and away at Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Braintree Town v Wrexham Last season, Wrexham finished 10th in the Vanarama National League on 70 points. They are currently 3rd on 18 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 7 D 9 L 7 GF 18 GA 22 Pts 30. Away results this seaon: Lost 1-0 v Solihull M, Won 1-3 v Eastleigh, Won 0-2 v Maidenhead U, Won 0-1 v Dover A. Top scorers last season: Chris Holroyd - 13, Scott Quigley (on loan from Blackpool) - 8, Shaun Pearson - 5. Top scorers this season: Karl Fondop-Talom - 5, Jordan Maguire-Drew (on loan from Brighton & HA) - 3, Rekiel Pyke (on loan from Huddersfield T) - 2 Braintree Town are currently 24th on 2 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 4 W 0 D 1 L 3 GF 4 GA 9 Pts 1. Braintree T last 4 home games: Lost 0-2 v Maidenhead U, Lost 3-4 v Havant & W, Drew 1-1 v Hartlepool U, Lost 0-2 v FC Halifax T. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, OG - 1. Wrexham are yet another club with a new manager for the start of this season, turning to former ex-Wales international full back Sam Ricketts. This is the first managerial appointment for the former Swansea C, Hull C, Bolton W and Wolves player. Sam has seen quite a large overall of his squad with many players from last season released whilst strengthening his squad with no less than 6 loan signings and the free transfers of Luke Summerfield, Luke Young and current top scorer; Fondop-Talom. Wrexham have made a strong start to the season, losing just one of their opening nine fixtures. Their last visit to Cressing Road was on 4 March 2017. The Iron scored in the first minute through Michael Cheek, but this early opener was cancelled out by Massanka 3 minutes later. Wrexham took all three points when Shenton scored the winner in the sixty fourth minute. Braintree suffered another defeat on Tuesday evening to leave them bottom of the Vanarama National League table and still in search of their first win of the season. A difficult challenge awaits as the Dragons come to town. This League is physical and teams are organised. More teams are now playing football. DOB: 1/4/93 (25) Born: London Previous clubs: Watford (U18), London Tigers, Hayes & Yeading, Hampton & Richmond B, Al Ahly Benghazi, Staines T Position: Striker Q. What is your job? A. I work for my father's Road Haulage & Transport Company Q. Who do you support? A. Arsenal Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Thierry Henry Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. Blue Q. Where did you holiday in the summer? A. Morocco (my honeymoon) Q. Which social media do you use? A. Instagram & Twitter Q. What are your strengths/weaknesses? A. Strengths - good shot, technical ability, scoring goals. Weakness - Sometimes get too emotional Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Ryan Bertrand when I played for Watford U18's against England U21's Q. Who is the best coach you've worked for? A. Johnson "Drax" Hippolyte at Staines Q. Is there anyone from your time at Watford who is now playing in the EFL/Premier? A. Britt Asombalonga Q. How did your move to Braintree come about? A. I was at pre-season with Stevenage. Brad had spoken to me at the end of last season and when Stevenage didn't offer me a contract, I came here Q. How have you settled in? A. Lads are good, I'm learning my game Q. You've played at this level before; what differences have you noticed? A. I played with here for Hayes & Yeading when I was about 18. This League is physical and teams are organised. More teams are now playing football. Q. You scored a wonder goal from a direct free kick, have you scored many better? Q. How many goals do you think you can score this season? A. 20 Q. How do you pass your time on long away trips? A. On my I-Pad, Netflix, Amazon Prime, or read Q. Who is the best dressed player at the club? A. Lyle Della-Verde Q. Who is the fittest player? A. Mahrez Bettache Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A, Arsene Wenger, love to play in his style of football Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. 15th Iron still looking for first win Iron are still searching for their first league win of the season after going down to a late penalty at Dagenham & Redbridge's Victoria Road on Tuesday evening - with a defeat that slips them to the bottom of the league. It was heartbreak for Iron manager Brad Quinton who had seen his side repeat their impressive performance from Saturday's draw at Boreham Wood, playing some high tempo football with good passing but the lack of a goal scorer in attack was again all too evident. "I'm disappointed because we played well, created chances but then concede a dubious penalty right at the end which I'm not sure should have been one," he said. "In the first half we should have had one when Mohammed Sagar was through and was clearly fouled but the referee, wrongly in my view, gave a yellow card to him for simulation." Quinton added: "We didn't deserve to lose and again should have come home with at least a point and had Dave Nieskens' late header been a few inches nearer he would have scored." Keeping the same starting line-up from Saturday Iron certainly looked impressive and played their part in what was a fast, entertaining game and early in the first half, Mo Bettamer saw his flick-on header at the near post kicked off the home goal line. When the home side did attack it took two excellent saves by Iron keeper Ben Killip to stop them from taking the lead which they nearly did on 39 minutes when the Iron defence failed to clear and Tomi Adeloye fired a shot goal-ward that just brushed the top of the bar. Killip pulled off two more fine saves right on half time but, within two minutes of the restart, a good build up by the Iron saw Sagar's low shot hit the side netting with home keeper Elliott Justham beaten. With both sides intent on attacking, the game flowed from one end to the other and, during the half Justin Amaluzor, Luke Allen and Bettamer all had shots on target which Justham saved as Iron failed to take advantage of all their good approach work. The crucial blow for Iron came on 84 minutes when somehow referee Paul Howard awarded a penalty having decided that home substitute Noel Leighton was tripped in the area, when in fact he fell over his own legs after pushing Pat Webber aside running into the area. Another substitute Chike Kandi stepped up to fire the spot kick home past Killip to give the home side their first win of the season. In the dying minutes of added time though Nieskens almost snatched a late goal and a point for Iron but his header from a corner was just inches wide with home keeper Justham beaten. Braintree Town: Killip; Lyons-Foster (75 Rowe), Nieskens, Webber; James, Crook (68 Della-Verde), Allen, Sagaf, Gabriel; Bettamer (79 Grant), Amaluzor. Unused subs: Clark, Pattison. Referee: Paul Howard. Attendance: 1,081 (61 Iron fans) Next up for the Iron is a home game this Saturday against Wrexham, kick off 3pm. Dagenham & Redbridge v Braintree Town Dagenham & Redbridge finished 11th in the Vanarama National League last season on 68 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 13 D 3 L 7 GF 40 GA 32 Pts 42. They are currently 24th in the Vanarama National League on 2 points. Their home results this season: Drew 0-0 v Salford C, Lost 1-2 v Hartlepool U, Drew 2-2 v Maidenhead U, Lost 1-2 v Maidstone U. Top scorers last season: Michael Cheek (now Ebbsfleet U) - 13, Fejiri Okenabirhie (now Shrewsbury T) - 12, Morgan Ferrier (now Walsall) & Corey Whitely (now Ebbsfleet U) - 8. Scorers this season: Elliott Romain - 3, Alexander McQueen - 2, Luke Kandi & Olu Adeloye - 1. Braintree Town are currently 23rd in the Vanarama National League on 3 points. Braintree Town last 4 away games: Drew 1-1 v Boreham Wood, Lost 1-0 v AFC Barrow, Lost 1-0 v Chesterfield, Drew 1-1 v Barnet. Braintree Town scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, OG - 1. Daggers had a difficult 2017-18 after they were let down by sponsors. That ultimately led to the departures of manager John Still and assistant Darren Currie (to Barnet) along with many of the first team squad. The rebuilding has been put in the hands of former England U21, Leicester C, Brighton HA and Hull C (amongst others) boss Peter Taylor. Like the Iron, they are searching for their first 3 point haul of the season. Meanwhile, Brad rang the changes for the visit to Boreham Wood bringing in his 4 new signings from the off. A good point was gained at The Meadow and the boys will be looking to build on that performance. Mo's cracking free-kick and that save in time added on Iron may still be searching for their first league win but this impressive performance at Meadow Park on Saturday was their best of the season giving manager Brad Quinton belief that they are finally on the right track. Quinton gave debuts to four new signings - Dutch central defender Dave Nieskens, midfielders Cameron James from Colchester United and Mohammed Sagaf plus striker Justin Amaluzor - and they all played their part in a rejuvenated Iron display. "I'm really pleased with them and how the rest of the players performed as a team bearing in mind we had only one training session together," said Quinton. "I felt the first half we didn't put enough pressure on them but in the second half we were clearly the better side, playing our high tempo game and with excellent passing of the ball. "Our defence looked far more solid with 24 year-old Nieskens using his strength and experience to hold it all together," he said. "Sagaf never stopped working and did so well having come up from our reserve side which is a big step while both James and Amaluzor gave us much more aggression. "But all of them played their part and again goalkeeper Ben Killip was excellent pulling off saves at crucial times including that fantastic finger-tip save in the fourth minute of added time to ensure we at least went away with a point," he added. "It would have been an injustice had we lost because in the second half I felt we were in control and could have grabbed a winning goal." With young Ipswich loanee left-back Pat Webber returning from injury the Iron looked a far more composed and cohesive team Iron fans have seen so far this season and although both sides struck the woodwork overall a draw was a fair result on the day. The first half saw the home side have the better of the exchanges but Iron came closest to scoring on the half hour but Amaluzor's first time shot struck the foot of a post before the ball went behind while at the other end Killip moments earlier had pulled off two excellent saves. Two minutes later it was the home side's turn to hit the woodwork when Jamal Fyfield shot came back of the bar but on 34 minutes he did score heading home a Keiran Murtagh free-kick. Iron came back strongly but home keeper Ellery Balcombe made two important stops to prevent an equaliser. There was little though he could do when the Iron equalised on 48 minutes thanks to an excellent free-kick by Mohamed Bettamer from the edge of the area where he struck a low, hard shot into the far corner of the net. This gave Iron fresh impetus and for long periods of the second half they were the better side and were more positive in going forward with Bettamer and Amaluzor causing all kinds of problems for the home defence. Late on both Luke Allen and Sagaf, who was previously at Leatherhead but two seasons ago was playing in the Italian Serie B League, saw their shots go narrowly over the bar and then Amaluzor twice drove the ball goal-wards only for keeper Balcombe to collect. Thanks to that late finger-tip save from Killip, Iron deservedly came away with a point and now look forward to their next game at Dagenham & Redbridge on Tuesday evening where they will be looking for their first win. Braintree Town: Killip; Lyons-Foster, Nieskens, Webber; James, Allen, Crook (84 Della-Verde), Allen, Gabriel; Sagaf, Bettamer, Amaluzor (72 Pattison). Unused subs: Durojaiye, Clark, Blackmore. Attendance: 578. Referee: Martin Woods Boreham Wood v Braintree Town Boreham Wood finished 4th in the Vanarama National League last season on 75 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 12 D 5 L 6 GF 33 GA 25 Pts 41. They are currently 12th in the Vanarama National League on 11 points. Last 4 home results: Won 2-1 v FC Halifax T, Drew 1-1 v Gateshead, Won 1-0 v Dagenham & R 2017/18 - Won 3-1 v Guiseley. Top scorers last season: Bruno Andrade (now Lincoln C) - 22, Angelo Balanta - 11, Morgan Ferrier (now Walsall) - 7. Scorers this season: Joshua Umerah - 3, Angelo Balanta - 1 David Stephens - 1. Braintree T are currently 23rd in the Vanarama National League on 2 points. Braintree T last 4 away (League) games: Lost 1-0 v AFC Barrow, Lost 1-0 v Chesterfield, Drew 1-1 v Barnet, 2017/18 - Won 1-2 v Truro C. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer & Reece Grant - 2, OG - 1. Boreham Wood made it to the play-off final last season; losing 2-1 to 10 man Tranmere Rovers. They have the youngest manager in the League - Luke Garrad (32), who had previously played for the club. Having lost last season's top scorer to the Imps, they have brought in Umerah from Charlton A on loan. A familiar face to Iron fans will be centre back Manny Parry who was part of our relegated side in 2016/17. Brad has said he is looking to bring in new players to help get the Iron on the winning path. Our last visit to Meadow Park was on 20 December 2016 when the Iron (inc. Parry), beat 10 man Wood 1-0 courtesy of a Michael Cheek goal to lift them out of the relegation zone. A repeat of that result would be most welcome! From Old Trafford to Cressing Road DOB: 24/11/95 (22) Born: Isleworth Previous clubs: Chelsea (Yth), Norwich C, Kings Lynn T (L), Lowestoft T (L), Grimsby T Position: Goalkeeper Q. Do you have another job? A. No Q. Who do you support? A. Chelsea Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Marc-Andre ter-Stegan (Ba) Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. Drake Q. Where did you holiday in the summer? A. Spain, Rome & Cornwall - sun, sightseeing & surfing Q. Which social media do you use? A. Instagram Q. You were at Chelsea as a youth player, who did you play with there? A. Loftus-Cheek, Christiansen, Ake Q. Who has been the best coach you have worked with? A. Dean Kiely whilst at Norwich C Q. What is the best ground you've played at? A. Old Trafford Q. Who is the best keeper you've been an understudy to? A. John Ruddy Q. Growing up, were you always a goalkeeper? A. As a kid played outfield, started playing in goal about age 7 Q. You've played in the EFL, where would you like to be in 3 years' time? A. Playing for England Q. How did you come to be at Braintree? A. My agent got in touch with the club, played a few games and signed Q. You've played the opening games; how do you feel about your performances? A. Individually pleased, collectively, we should be doing better Q. You've pulled off some top saves in those games, what are your strengths? A. one v one's Q. Who in the current squad has the hardest shot? A. Mo Bettamer Q. You saved a penalty against Hartlepool, what is your record like, do you have a strategy? A. My record is pretty poor, that was probably first one in 4 years. I watch video clips of penalty takers. Q. Who is the worst dressed player at the club? A. Jon Muleba Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Pep Guardiola for the total football his teams play Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. Top Four new faces - all available for trip to Boreham Wood Iron Manager has made sweeping changes with four new players coming into the Iron squad. Joining Braintree on a half-season loan from Colchester United is 20-year old defender/midfielder Cameran James. Born in February 1998, Cameron can play as either a defender or midfielder. He started in Colchester United's Academy at the age of nine, progressing through the age groups to make his professional debut in May 2016 against Rochdale. In the summer of 2016 he agreed a new four-year contract with the club and ended the season having made 15 first-team appearances. He made seven appearances last season before a spell at Chelmsford City on loan. Justin Amaluzor is a 21-year old forward who started his career at Luton before joining Barnet in April 2015. He played 28 games in the Football League for the Harrow-based club before leaving in the summer. Also had spells on loan at Hemel Hempstead, Hampton and Bognor last season. Dave Nieskens is a 24 year old central defender who joins the club having spent last season at National League side Barrow, where he made eight appearances. Unfortunately complications with a knee injury ruled him out for the rest of the season after being injured in BarrowÕs game at Tranmere Rovers in September and he returned to The Netherlands for surgery. Now fully fit, he signed forms for the Club last night. Prior to his spell in Cumbria, Dave played for Helmond Sport in the Dutch Eersre Divisie, making 36 appearances. Mohammed Sagaf is a 20-year old midfield player that has had spells with both Leatherhead and Walthamstow. He has impressed in training with Brad's squad over recent sessions and signed registration forms last night. Brad's budget increased this week This week the Iron 12th Man Group are making their first substantial contribution towards strengthening Brad's playing squad. Many thanks to all of you who have so far purchased Pitch Squares and have joined the 92 Club. Pitch Squares are still available to buy and for just £10 each you will get your name/business printed in colour in every home match programme. The 92 Club also has space available for the next competition at a cost of £2.50 per week with the chance to win up to £200. 12th Man co-organiser Les Clear said: "Already this season it is important to do all we can to support Brad as he looks to strengthen the squad so we can continue to be in the National League and enjoy the highest standard of football possible. As usual I will be in the Club House at all home games to receive your monies and hopefully to sign up new members. Thank you - Les" Chairman Lee Harding was delighted: "As we've seen in the past, it's easy to talk the talk, but our 12th Man Group are delivering. Following my chat with Les on Monday, I was pleased to be able to advise Brad that his playing budget was being increased, with sufficient funds to bring in an extra player." SUPPORT THE 12TH MAN - IT'S WORKING! Devs returns to outmanoeuvre Iron Iron are still looking for their first league win after they failed to make headway in this Bank Holiday game at Cressing Road. It was left to former Iron boss Alan Devonshire to come back to haunt his old side and he saw his latest charges run out winners leaving his opposite number Brad Quinton still looking for his first win of the season. Two first half goals from the visitors ensured they went home with three points despite absorbing pressure from an improved second half Iron performance. Quinton was forced to make five changes from the Saturday defeat at Barrow with Jon Muleba and Luke Allen injured and Reece Grant, Billy Crook and Dan Thompson dropping to the bench. In came left-back Ricky Gabriel for his first outing this season along with Lyle Della Verde, Irnti Rapai, Henry Ochieng and Christie Pattison. Ironically the first 25 minutes of the game had seen Iron play well and they looked the more positive side going forward but, as in many of their games so far this season, they don't have a forward capable of finding the net. After they had spurned three chances Iron were caught with a sucker punch on 28 minutes, when they only partially cleared the ball in defence and it was soon back in the home area where Adrian Clifton was given too much time and space to drill a low shot past keeper Ben Killip. The visitors then had themselves two chances they wasted but did increase their lead right on the half time whistle when again another poor Iron clearance saw the ball lifted back into the Iron area where the unmarked Ayo Obileye powered home a header that gave Killip no chance. A double half time substitution that saw Crook and Grant come on did give the Iron some fresh impetus but they rarely had the guile and cohesion to upset the visitors' defence which sat back and easily absorbed what pressure came their way. The Iron's best goal chance came on 66 minutes with a well worked move through the middle that saw Christie Pattison clear on goal but he blasted the ball high over the bar with just keeper Carl Pentney to overcome. Had Iron scored then it may well have give the young side fresh confidence but it was the visitors who finished strongly, missing two clearcut late chances, include one from substitute James Akintunde standing almost on the goal line unmarked but he somehow managed to shot the ball over the bar. It was a double let off for Iron and illustrates the work manager Quinton now has to do in bringing in more experienced players to cope with the physical and mental demands of this level of football. "I'm again disappointed with out performance and I have given last season's promotion players enough chances to play at this level but it's not happening and changes have to be made this coming week," he declared. "Both of their goals came from basic mistakes and at this level you get immediately punished and we again tried to play too much football from the back which is where we were caught out." Quinton went on: "We need lads that are stronger both mentally and physically to be better organised like Maidenhead did - we were knocked off the ball too easily in too many situations." Quinton confirmed that he would have an experienced central defender in for their next game along with a midfielder and a wide player adding: "We also aim to bring in a forward who again is physical and knowledgeable enough to play at this level." Braintree Town: Killip; Lyons-Foster, Gabriel, Hill, Clark; Durojaiye (76 Thompson), Ochieng, Della-Verde (45 Crook), Pattison; Bettamer, Rapai (45 Grant). Unused subs: Bettache, Frimpong. Attendance: 576. Next up for the Iron is an away match at Boreham Wood on Saturday, kick off 3pm. Iron denied a point in Cumbria Iron are still seeking their first league win of the season after this long trek to the north west on Saturday saw them again lose by just one goal at Holker Street despite a stirring second half display that should have at least earned them a point. They put tremendous pressure on the home defence in the latter part of the game but it was their old problem of not having anyone to put the final ball into the back of the opponents net. Manager Brad Quinton said he was bitterly disappointed they didn't at least get a draw from what was an entertaining game adding: "We have to be more clinical in the final quarter and particularly in front of goal. "Everyone worked hard and we looked stronger at the back compared to the previous game where we let in four goals," he said. "But we are making progress and we will score goals which is what is needed." The manager made two changes from the previous week's 4-3 home defeat, bringing in Dan Thompson and now free from suspension Billy Crook and dropping Mahrez Bettache and Lyle Della-Verde to the bench. They again had the worse possible start as in the previous week conceding an early goal when in the seventh minute John Rooney fired the home side into the lead after Jack Barthram had created the opening down the wing. Facing the wind, Iron goal was under pressure in the first half as the home side tried to extend their lead and twice keeper Ben Killip was forced to bring off two fine saves, the best being from a fierce Jason Tyler shot. After regrouping the Iron began to settle down more and they could have equalised before the break but Mohamed Bettamer's shot was too weak and when the Iron did make in ways into the home rearguard some stout defending prevented them from scoring. With the wind behind them, the second half was a much better one for the Iron as they slowly began to create more going forward. Dan Thompson steered his effort over the top after 51 minutes and Iron thought they had equalised when young Reece Grant forced the ball home - but he was flagged offside. In the latter stages of the game Iron looked stronger and with three substitutions made they put pressure on the home defence but it was the old problem of not having an experienced goal-getter up front which is clearly a problem for manager Quinton to overcome if they are to climb up the league. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Clark, Hill, Lyons-Foster; Allen, Durojaiye, Crook (Della-Verde 80), Bettamer; Thompson (Rapai 66), Grant (Pattison 78). Unused subs: Bettache, Ochieng. Attendance: 1,232. Next up for Iron is a home game against Maidenhead United tomorrow - Bank Holiday Monday - with kick off at 3pm. Barrow Preview, Reserves and Maidenhead on Monday Match Preview - Sat 25 August 2018 - Barrow AFC v Braintree T Barrow finished 20th in the Vanarama National League last season on 49 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 4 D 10 L 9 GF 23 GA 29 Pts 22. They are currently 11th in the Vanarama National League on 7 points. Last 4 home results: Won 3-2 v Chesterfield, Won 3-0 v Havant & W, 2017/18 - Lost 1-2 v Chester, Lost 0-1 v Ebbsfleet U. Top scorers last season: Byron Harrison (now Barnet) - 8, Luke James (now Hartlepool U) - 7, Jordan White (now Inverness CT) - 6. Scorers this season: Jack Hindle - 4, Tyler Smith - 3, Raul Correia - 1. Braintree T are currently 21st in the Vanarama National League on 2 points. Braintree T last 4 away (League) games: Lost 1-0 v Chesterfield, Drew 1-1 v Barnet, 2017/18 - Won 1-2 v Truro C, Won 0-1v Hungerford T. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer & Reece Grant - 2, OG - 1. Suspension news: Billy Crook has now completed his suspension and is available for selection. Having avoided relegation last season by 1 point, the Bluebirds appointed former Blackpool, QPR & Chesterfield defender as manager in May this year. Evatt replaced Ady Pennock who was dismissed with his assistant, former Iron boss Jamie Day. Evatt has former Wigan A, Sheffield W and Coventry C stalwart Peter Atherton as his right hand man. Evatt has put together a new squad for this season. So far, Barrow have had mixed results this season, but have won both home games, scoring three on each occasion. Our last visit to Barrow was almost 2 years to the day when we went down 2-1 after taking the lead with a Chez Isaac penalty. Ritchie Bennett equalised just before half time and Byron Harrison completed the comeback with 3 minutes left to play. With late added time drama in the Iron's last game, Brad will be hoping for a stronger defensive display from this long trip. Iron Reserves at home Saturday If you can't make the long journey north on Saturday, Iron Reserves are at home in the Thurlow Nunn League Division One (South) to Hashtag United, with kick-off at 3pm. Admission is just £5 adults and £3 concessions and under 18s. Hashtag United were founded in 2016, they gained notability due to recording their matches, making videos around them, and posting them on YouTube. In the summer, they entered the English football league system and currently play in the Eastern Counties League Division One South. They are the first YouTube team of their kind to become a registered semi-professional team. After joining the Eastern Counties League, the club began playing at the Coles Park Stadium, ground-sharing with Haringey Borough FC. Bank Holiday Monday at home Next home match for the first team is on August Bank Hliday Monday, when we welcome our old manager Alan Devonshire and his team Maidenhead United to Cressing Road for another Vanarama National League match, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron to be beamed live around the world The Vanarama National League are delighted to announce no fewer than four more live matches will be broadcast on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport 4K UHD. Taking the total to ten TV selections with 20 teams covered, the exciting start to the new season will see eight sides yet to feature in front of the cameras enjoy the spotlight. The first of the new batch will be Eastleigh's game against a Dagenham side who have begun the new campaign slowly on September 22. Then it's strong starters FC Halifax Town, who face a Chesterfield team also with promotion ambition on October 13. Braintree Town and Solihull Moors battle for points in Essex on November 17, before Hartlepool face Barnet in our first Sunday live game of the season on November 18. The four latest live fixtures are as follows: Saturday September 22 KO 12.35pm Eastleigh v Dagenham & Redbridge Saturday October 13 KO 5.15pm FC Halifax Town v Chesterfield Saturday November 17 KO 12.30pm Braintree Town v Solihull Moors Sunday November 18 KO 3pm Hartlepool United v Barnet Quinton promises changes There was a dramatic end to this entertaining game at Cressing Road on Saturday which saw the visitors snatch two goals in time added on to secure a win leaving Iron boss Brad Quinton fuming with his players. Iron looked all set for their first league win of the season leading 3-2 going into the final minutes of normal time but again they paid the penalty for sloppy play giving the ball away too easily plus some very poor defending that allowed the points to slip away. With 94 minutes on the clock the visitors' Nicke Kabamba headed home unmarked and, just two minutes later, substitute Alfie Cosgrove was also left unmarked to head home the winner to complete their comeback, both resulting through a lack of home defending. Promising changes to his playing personnel Quinton: "I am bitterly disappointed to concede so late on and their two added time goals which could easily have been avoided and I simply cannot accept that. "Overall though I think we were still poor despite coming back and taking the lead because really we have no game management at the present out there and it showed with how those two late goals were conceded," he continued. "We've got defenders too who want to play the ball out at the back and today we got caught again, unlike the visitors who sensibly put the ball out of the ground or up field. Also other players simply switched off at crucial times, giving the ball away and conceding needless free-kicks - you can't afford that at this level." He added: "There will certainly be some changes this coming week because we need to improve straight away and we will have new faces in the squad - I can't accept a repeat of this late, late show." He added: "We were controlling the game late on, leading and then two moments of absolute madness costs us and we can ill afford to see a repeat and there will be changes." There was drama even before the kick off when left-back Pat Webber was injured in the warm up which meant a recall for Josh Hill, who originally wasn't even in the 16-man squad. Iron then had the worse possible start conceding a goal within the first minute when the ball was lost on the half way line and full back Rory Williams galloped through down the left unhindered to fire the ball past home keeper Ben Killip. Braintree, out-muscled for much of the first half, eventually forced themselves back into the game on 31 minutes when Reece Grant headed home from a Mohammed Bettamer header sent back across the penalty box. Iron then took the lead seven minutes later when Bettamer beautifully drove a 30 yard free-kick into the top corner of the net to give his side the advantage. But right on half time with the home defence again at sixes and sevens Jordan Rose was left unmarked in the box to head the ball into the net when really the defence had time to have cleared the danger. Iron improved in the second half, had most of the attacking play and took the lead on 72 minutes when again young Grant intercepted a back-pass and lobbed keeper Ryan Young to give the home side a 3-2 lead. With the Iron looking forward to a win, referee Sam Purkiss somehow found six minutes of added time and it was left to the visitors to take full advantage by grabbing those two late goals for a win. It was a disappointing end to a game the Iron in reality should have won but again the old defensive frailties showed up yet again and cost all three points. Braintree Town: (4-4-2): Killip; Muleba (Pattisson 46), Durojaiye, Hill, Clark; Della Verde (Ochieng 69), Allen, Bettache, Lyons-Foster; Bettamer, Grant (Frimpong 92). Subs not used: Rapai, Rowe. Attendance: 407. Next up for the Iron is a Bank Holiday double header with a visit to Barrow on Saturday and then on Monday a home match against Maidenhead United, kick off 3pm. The good news for the manager is that midfielder Billy Crook is available after completion of his suspension held over from last season although defender Jo Ellul and forward Marcel Barrington are still on the injury list. Match Preview: Sat 18 August 2018 Last season, Havant & Waterlooville finished 1st in the Vanarama National League South on 86 points. They are currently 22nd in the Vanarama National League on 2 points. Their away record last season was: P 21 W 14 D 4 L 3 GF 30 GA 10 Pts 46. Last 4 away results: Lost 4-3 v Dover A, Lost 3-0 v Barrow, 2017/18 Won 0-2 v Chelmsford C, Won 0-1 v Welling U. Top scorers last season: Jason Prior (now Dorking W) - 29, Matt Tubbs (now Gosport B) - 12, Theo Lewis - 11. Scorers so far this season: Nicke Kabamba, Wes Fogden, Alfie Pavey & Theo Lewis - 1 Braintree Town are currently 21st the Vanarama National League table on 2 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 2 W 0 D 1 L 1 GF 1 GA 3 Pts 1. Braintree T last 4 home games: Drew 1-1 v Hartlepool U, Lost 0-2 v FC Halifax T, 2017/18 Won 3-0 v Gloucester C, Drew 0-0 v Oxford C. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer & OG - 1 Suspension news: Billy Crook sits out the final game of his 5 match suspension. Team News: Nathan McDonald has been released by the Club. H&W won the VNL South on goal difference last season, taking stop spot after thumping East Thurrock U 6-1 with one match to play. Dartford were the unfortunate one's to lose out and the Hawks boss, Lee Bradbury, has brought in the Darts top scorer Alfie Pavey who netted 22 times last season. In our meetings with H&W last season, the first encounter in October at Cressing Road saw the Iron's first home defeat by 3 goals to 1; a Jason Prior hat-trick of penalties for the visitors and a Marcel Barrington strike for the Iron. The return game in February ended in stalemate at 0-0. H&W were hard to beat last season with only 6 defeats, but like the Iron; have found points hard to come by in the League above. They have lost their two away games so far and drawn their two home games. Braintree showed the same spirit that carried them in to and successfully through the play-offs on Tuesday evening, equalising in the final minute of stoppage time after being fortunate to be only one down at half time. Another tight match where both teams will fancy their chances of chalking up that first win of the season. Meet the skipper - leading by example DOB: 20/10/92 (25) Born: London Previous clubs: Tottenham H (Yth), Norwich C, Falkirk, Brechin C (L), Enfield T, Haringey B (x2), Hayes & Yeading (x2), Welling U Position: Midfield Q. What is your job? A. YouTube Influencer (modelling adverts) Q. Who do you support? A. Tottenham H Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. J J Okocha Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. Wizkid Q. What did you do during the summer? A. I interviewed Neymar, Jesse Lingard, Rueben Loftus-Cheek for my work. Q. Which social media do you use? A. Twitter & Instagram Q. You were at Tottenham from the age of 7 to 18, who did you play with in your time there? A. Luke Allen! Jon Bostock, Alex Pritchard, Tom Carroll, Andros Townsend, Harry Kane Q. You spent time in Scotland with Falkirk and played alongside Braintree's top scorer last season, Phil Roberts, what was that like? A. Unbelievable time, but I think I went there too early, better publicity now. I used to be Phil's neighbour and would sometimes crashed out at his. Q. What was the best ground you played on in Scotland? A. Ibrox, home of Rangers Q. How did you come to be at Braintree? A. I had a burning desire to work for Brad, I had a spell with him at Enfield after leaving Scotland Q. You've captained the side in the opening fixtures, what was that like, what do you bring to the role? A. Another voice, I like to think that I lead by example. Q. Did you know or have you played with any of the current squad before? A. Apart from Luke, no, though I know a few of the guys through football. I knew Ricky Gabriel, I was winding him up during the Welling/Braintree match last season, the one where he was sent off! Q. Who has been the best coach you've worked with? A. Chris Ramsey at Tottenham H Q. Who has given you the best advice in your career and what was it? A. Don't have a plan B - my Dad Q. Who is in charge of fines this season? A. It hasn't been decided yet. Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Jose Mourinho, similar to what I like to do; he's a winner Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. Top Mo levels things up in time added on It took a dramatic goal four minutes into added on time at the end of this game at Cressing Road on Tuesday evening to see the Iron grab an equaliser and collect their first point at home. The visitors, who had dominated the first half and could have been four goals up by half time, finally conceded under late severe pressure from Iron and after a sweeping move down the right wing Mohamed Bettamer ran on to drive the ball low into the net past the despairing keeper Scott Loach for the equaliser. The Iron players though have to thank goalkeeper Ben Killip who pulled off five fantastic first half saves, including a 10th minute penalty, and twice again in the second half denied the visitors with great saves. The visitors had swamped the Iron in the first half completely dominating the game and creating so many chances but only managed one goal on 25 minutes when Niko Muir finally beat Killip to give his side the lead. After such an impressive performance away to Chesterfield on Saturday the Iron's first half performance left home fans shell shocked at the lack of effort, energy and with players not doing the basics, such as passing the ball to one another. Such was one-way traffic on 22 minutes Iron manager Brad Quinton took off central defender Josh Hill, who was having a poor game after giving away the early penalty, and brought on Christian Frimpong to try and stabilise the defence. The visitors though remained dominant and but for some plucky defending, Killip's saves and poor finishing by the visitors they would have had the game sown up. A severe lecture by Quinton, initially keeping his players out on the field at the interval, seem to at least galvanise his players and they played much better in the second half which was a more even affair. The Iron at last pressed further up the field and several half chances went begging. The visitors always still looked threatening on the counter attack but their finishing was wayward and Killip was outstanding in goal. The first Iron appearance of Irnti Rapai, coming on as a substitute on 55 minutes certainly improved Iron's forward play as he linked up well with Bettamer and both had good attempts at goal while first Christie Pattison and then Luke Allen fired home shots just narrowly missing the target. To their credit Iron kept pushing for that unexpected but hoped for equaliser and it came deep into stoppage much to the delight of the home fans in the 606 crowd. The Iron's first half performance left Quinton livid and afterwards he said: "It's the worse 45 minutes of football I have seen from any side I have managed - it was diabolical and totally unacceptable. "But for Ben Killip we would have been dead and buried and it was a totally unacceptable performance from my players," he went on. "I have clearly some sorting out to do and the players know only too well what I have said from the start - if they don't perform, do as we want them and then put in the kind of performance in the first half then they will be on their way out. "We need one or two new faces coming in and it will happen because we can't have a repeat of the first 45 minutes," he added. "This is a tough league as we know and you have to be on your game right from the start and in every game and we didn't do that in this game." Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba. Webber, Clark, Hill (Frimpong 22); Durojaiye (Della-Verde 70), Allen, Rowe (Rapai 55), Lyons-Foster; Bettamer, Pattisson. Unused subs: Bettache, Ochieng. Referee: Peter Gibbons. Attendance: 606. Next up for the Iron is a home game on Saturday against Havant & Waterlooville, kick off 3pm. A game of what ifs for Braintree Braintree Town put up a tremendous away performance against the Championship favourites at the Proact Stadium on Saturday but came away with nothing after conceding the only goal of the game in the 58th minute. It could have all been so different had the Iron, who successfully had set their stall out from the start and contained the home side for long periods, had taken the one first half golden goal chance of the game on 17 minutes. Pressing hard with some good movement and passing the chance came when they forced the home side defender Drew Talbot into a mistake that saw Daniel Rowe break completely clear on goal and he should have scored with only keeper Shwan Jalal to beat. The youngster should have chipped the ball over the keeper but instead chose to drive it forcing Jalal into a diving save with his feet and the chance had gone. Had the Iron scored then the outcome of the game could well have been different because they more than held their own against the full-timers but it was clear to the faithful 57 Iron fans in the 4,927 crowd that a goal scoring striker remains a priority. All the good build up play and creative work was all too often wasted in the final quarter and frequently during the game they forced the home defence into some panic defending. With Jo Ellul and Reece Grant both injured the Iron brought in Daniel Rowe and Josh Hill kept his place in the heart of the defence and they more than held their own consistently frustrated the home side. What turned out to be the only goal of came on 58 minutes with a home side counter attack that caught the Iron's right side of defence napping and Curtis Weston nipped in onto a Marcel-Antoine Fortune quick pass and he drilled a low shot into the Iron net. Two minutes early Iron keeper Ben Killip had pulled of a great save at the feet of Fortune to keep his side in the game and again the new keeper excelled all afternoon and is one of the bright spots for the Iron in their start to the season. Once in front the home side naturally had renewed confidence but full credit to the Iron defence they weathered the storm and continued to try and play their football. Ironically in the final 10 minutes of the game they were on the front foot and created confusion in the home defence leaving keeper Jalal to twice scramble the ball away at the last moment and then defender Talbot was forced to sky the ball away as it was heading goal wards. Even at this stage had Iron a striker they may well have grabbed that all important equaliser. Manager Brad Quinton was also disappointed they didn't come away with a point adding: "The players stuck to our game plan, worked hard and created chances and had we scored first with out first half chance it would have been a different game and it goes to show that at this level you have take the chances when they come or you get punished." "But we are improving each game and we are going in the right direction," he added. Next up for the Iron is a home match against Hartlepool United this coming Tuesday evening, with kick off at 7.45pm. Braintree Town: Kiilip; Muleba, Webber, Clark, Hill; Durojaiye, Della- Verde (62 Bettamer), Lyons-Foster, Pattison, Rowe (71 Allen); Thompson. Unused subs Frimpong, Orchieng, Bettache. Referee: Andrew Miller. Attendance: 4,927 Chesterfield v Braintree T Chesterfield finished bottom in EFL Division 2 last season on 38 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 8 D 3 L 12 GF 27 GA 33 Pts 27. Last 4 home results: Won 3-0 v Aldershot T, 2017/18 - Won 1-0 v Newport C, Lost 1-2 v Wycombe W, Lost 0-1 v Mansfield T. Top scorers last season: Kristian Denis (now Notts Co) - 21, Jak McCourt (now Swindon T) - 6 Andy Kellett (now Notts Co), Joe Rowley & Louis Reed (on loan from Sheffield U, now at Peterborough U) - 4. Scorers this season: Charlie Carter - 2, Zavon Hines (p) & Drew Talbot - 1 Braintree T last 4 away (League) games: Drew 1-1 v Barnet, 2017/18 - Won 1-2 v Truro C, Won 0-1v Hungerford T, Lost 2-1 v St Albans C. Suspension news: Crook to serve a further 3 game ban, McDonald has completed his suspension and is available for selection. Chesterfield dropped out of the Football League for the first time in their history last season. Former player Jack Lester was put in charge at the end of September 2017, but was unable to steer them clear of the drop and was mutually dismissed at the end of the season. In stepped Martin Allen, the other manager relegated from the EFL. The ex-Bees boss has brought a few players who played under him at The Hive. Their opening fixtures saw them win 1-0 away to Ebbsfleet and a midweek home victory against the Shots followed. Braintree come in to this game on the back of gaining their first point of the season in an evenly contested match at The Hive; however, they have yet to find the net from one of their won players. Joe Ellul was substituted in the first half and was on crutches at the end, so must be a doubt for selection. The Iron have only met the Spireites once before when drawn at home to them in the F A Cup 1st Round (Nov 2014); the League One side handing out a 6-0 beating to the hosts. A tough task awaits as Brad takes his boys to one of the promotion favourites. Iron worthy of a point at Barnet A gritty second half performance from Iron ensured they returned home with the first point of the new season at the Hive on Tuesday evening in what was an all round improved display after their opening day home defeat on Saturday. Playing with more verve, cohesion and teamwork they were well worth their half time lead and although they were under the cosh at times in the second half, as the home side pressed hard, Iron deservedly held out for a point. It left manager Brad Quinton with a smile on his face who said: "That's much better and more of what I expect from my players and I am delighted we're off the mark. "I thought we played really well in the first half and deserved our lead," he said. "We knew they could come at us after the interval but the players showed tremendous determination and grit to compete and deny them a victory. We've still a lot of work to do but I feel after this performance we are on the right track." Making three changes from the first game - Joe Ellul, Kodi Lyons-Foster and Dan Thompson coming into the starting line-up - the Iron set about the home side from the off forcing five corners in the first nine minutes. When the home did press Iron keeper Ben Killip, who has been a revelation in his first two games at the Club, pulled off two fine first half saves while on quick counter attacks Iron caused the home rearguard frequent problems. Their efforts were rewarded on 35 minutes when a marauding run down the right by Jon Muleba saw his low, hard right wing cross cause all kinds of problems and in the end forcing defender Jack Taylor to concede an own-goal as his tried desperately to clear the ball. Four minutes later the Iron suffered a blow when Ellul, looking strong in the middle of the Iron defence, was forced off with a leg injury to be replaced by Josh Hill, but the Iron kept up the chase for that all important second goal. Fully deserving their first half lead, Iron knew it would be a backs-to-the-wall style second half which is what happened and on 66 minutes, after much pressure, the home side equalised when substitute Shaq Coulhirst managed to scramble the ball over the line as the Iron defence struggled to clear the danger. For a brief spell the home side naturally tried to force home their renewed confidence and the Iron defence lived dangerously with the woodwork saving them once and also another two fine saves from Killip. Having weathered the storm Iron, with two late substitutes helping their cause, came back into the game more and twice young sub Reece Grant was unlucky late on not to have snatched a winner. In the final minute Killip kept his side in the game and saved a point as he pulled off a fantastic reaction save from a ricochet shot that looked to be dipping into top corner of the Iron net but he somehow managed to get a hand to the ball to push it around for a corner. It would have been an injustice had Iron not taken at least a draw from what was an entertaining game with end-to-end football from both sides and Iron can now look forward to another away game on Saturday when they visit Chesterfield. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Webber, Clark, Ellul (39 Hill); Durojaiye, Allen (66 Rowe), Della-Verde, Pattisson; Lyons-Foster, Thompson (72 Grant). Unused subs: Bettache, Frimpong. Referee: Lloyd Wood. Attendance: 1,507. Barnet v Braintree Town Barnet finished 23rd in EFL Division 2 last season on 46 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 8 D 6 L 9 GF 24 GA 25 Pts 40. Last 4 home results: Won 3-0 v Chesterfield, Won 2-0 v Newport C, Won 1-0 v Forest Green R, Won 2-1 v Crewe A. Top scorers last season: Shaquile Coulthirst - 11, Alex Nicholls (now Crewe A) - 8, John Akinde (now Lincoln C) - 7 Braintree's away record last season was: P 21 W 8 D 7 L 6 GF 33 GA 32 Pts 31. Braintree T last 4 away (League) games: Won 1-2 v Truro C, Won 0-1v Hungerford T, Lost 2-1 v St Albans C, Drew 1-1 v Hampton & Richmond B. Top Braintree Town Scorers last season: Billy Crook- 10 (7p), Luke Allen- 7, Marcel Barrington - 6 Suspension news: Crook to serve a further 4 game ban, McDonald will complete his suspension on completion of this match. The Bees went through four managers in an attempt to stave off relegation from League 2 last season. With games running out, they turned to Martin Allen for a 5th time to save them, but didn't quite make it. In the summer Allen left to take over also relegated Chesterfield. Again Barnet have turned to an old hand in former Daggers boss John Still to take over the reins. Still has raided his previous club to bring in players to the Hive, including former Iron favourite Dan Sparkes. Barnet's opening fixture of the season saw them return from Aldershot with a 0-0 draw, whilst the Iron suffered a home defeat to FC Halifax Town. A tough test awaits the Iron at the Hive, but don't forget to buddy up as the hosts offering 2 for the price of one admission to the game. Debutant Killip keeps the score respectable The young Iron team did their best but it was not quite good enough in the end in their first game back after promotion back to the Vanarama National League and, despite an encouraging even first half display, they allowed a more experienced and streetwise Yorkshire side to dominate the second half who deservedly they went away from Cressing Road with all three points on Saturday. And but for the heroics by debutant Ben Killip in the home goal who pulled off six outstanding saves during the afternoon the wining margin would certainly have been greater. Despite a fairly even first half with both sides counter attacking well and both side having chances the visitors' breakthrough came two minutes from the interval when they gained four consecutive quick corners and from the last one scored the opening goal. It came from a series of accurate corners by Ben Tomlinson and with his final effort his cross was met at the far post by the unmarked Jonathan Edwards who headed it back across the goal and into the top corner of the Iron net. It was a bitter blow for the Iron right on half time and it clearly affected the players because in the second half they were second best and struggled to cope with the quickness and accurate passing of the visitors. The all important second goal for the visitors came on 65 minutes when from another left wing Tomlinson corner defender Nathan Clarke ran unchallenged into the Iron to deliver a bullet like header into the top corner of the net giving Killip no chance. From then on it was almost one-way traffic as the young and inexperienced home side ran out of ideas and again but for the superb agility from Killip in the home goal the final scoreline would have been much different. The Iron's failure to penetrate the visitors' defence in that final quarter of the field and clearly lacking a target man up front also led to their demise and left manager Brad Quinton with plenty of thinking to do before his side go to Barnet on Tuesday night. "It's going to be a big learning curve for my young players and the more experienced visitors cleared their lines and did a horrible defensive job when needed but we didn't do the same," he declared. "You have to be on your toes all the while at this level and it cost us the game from two corners otherwise I thought we did well even if we overplayed it too often proving to be our own worse enemies." Braintree: (4-3-2-1): Killip; Muleba, Webber, Clark, Hill; Durojaiye, Allen (67 Rowe), Ochieng (77 Grant), Verde (69 Thompson), Pattisson; Bettamer. Subs not used: Bettache, Ellul. Attendance: 621. Referee: Will Finnie Next up for the Iron is an away league game at Barnet on Tuesday evening (kick off 7 45pm). Braintree T v FC Halifax T Last season, FC Halifax T finished 16th in the Vanarama National League on 55 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 4 D 10 L 9 GF 17 GA 28 Pts 22. Last 4 away results: Drew 0-0 v Maidstone Lost 1-0 v Torquay U, Lost 2-0 v AFC Fylde, Drew 1-1 v Guiseley AFC. Top scorers last season: Tom Denton (now Alfreton) - 10, Matthew Kosylo - 9 Adam Morgan - 4. Braintree Town finished 6th the Vanarama National League South on 54 points. Braintree's home record last season was: P 21 W 11 D 4 L 6 GF 40 GA 23 Pts 26. Braintree T last 4 home games: Won 3-0 v Gloucester C, Drew 0-0 v Oxford C, Won 4-3 v Whitehawk, Won 2-1 v Concord R. Top Braintree Town Scorers: Billy Crook- 11 (7p), Reece Grant & Luke Allen - 7. Suspension news: Billy Crook starts the season with a 5 game ban, goalkeeper, Nathan McDonald serves a 2 match ban. Our quick return to the top tier of non-league football presents us with an opening day fixture against FC Halifax Town. The Shaymen have had a busy summer returning to full time status for the first time in a decade. They have also gone a major squad re-building with only a handful of players from last season. Their manager, Jamie Fullarton took over the club in February 2018 having previously managed Notts County two years previous, his only other managerial post. The Iron meanwhile will parade new signings to join several of last season's play-off winning squad. Coming in are Michael Clark formerly of Leyton Orient, Olu Durajaiye from Welling & Lyle Della-Verde from Dartford. With McDonald suspended, new signing Ben Killip will have the opportunity to make the number one shirt his own. FC Halifax were amongst the lowest scorers in the division last season and I predict a low scoring, close encounter. BQ continues build-up to the season This final run out for both teams before they kick off the serious business of their new National League season this coming Saturday turned out to be a tepid affair at Cressing Road on Saturday and lacked the traditional passion of a local derby between these two neighbours. With both managers using the game to play several trialists and with many substitutions throughout the afternoon, there was understandably a lack of cohesion on behalf of both teams with City arguably the better side in the first half while Iron dominated the second. As a result chances at either end were few and far between with City's Rhys Murphy narrowly heading over on 26th minutes and five minutes before the break Christie Pattison fired in a shot for the Iron which narrowly missed the visitors' goal. With regular Iron keeper Nathan McDonald suspended for the first two league games manager Brad Quinton gave a trial to Ben Killip who played 10 games in goal for Grimsby Town last season but he was really troubled in the first half while another trialist was left-back Kristian Campbell, who played against the Iron last season when playing for relegated Bognor Regis Town. Half time saw wholesale changes for the Iron with only Christian Frimpong remaining from the first half with further debuts given to trialists Kodi Lyons-Foster, 21, who played for Whitehawk last season against the Iron, and midfielder Henri Orchieng. Iron certainly had the better of the second half with first Billy Crook firing close on 51 minutes and then on 75 minutes trialist Mustafa Taryiki, formerly with Wealdstone, should have scored when set up for a goal but he shot tamely at visiting keeper Ross Worner. The visitors almost snatched what would have been an undeserved winner on 87 minutes when one of their six un-named trialists drove a rising shot that brushed the top of the Iron crossbar. The game finally petered out with both managers probably satisfied more with the chance to look at possible new recruits rather any concern over the result. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Campbell, Frimpong, Ellul; Durojaiye, Della-Verde, Pattison, Barrington; Grant, Thompson. Second half Iron substitutes: Jones (gk), Bettache, Allen, Crook, Bettamer, Rowe, Orchieng, Tariki, Lyons-Foster. Attendance: 254. Next up for the Iron is the opening National League game against FC Halifax Town at Cressing Road this coming Saturday, kick off 3pm. Coggeshall beaten in latest friendly Braintree Town travelled the six miles down the A120, enjoying a 10-second rain shower on the way, before securing a single goal victory over last season's Thurlow-Nunn League champions Coggeshall Town. The goal was scored by Mustafa Tiryaki. The team was as follows: 1 Nathan McDonald, 2 Jonathan Muleba (SUB: 15 Mahrez Bettache), 3 Kristian Campbell, 4 Michael Clark (18 Christian Frimpong), 5 Josh Hill, 6 Joe Ellul, 7 Joe Allen (14 Lyle Delle-Verde), 8 Olu Durejaiye (Billy Crook - NN), 9 Danny Rowe (Irnti Rapai - NN), 10 Mohamed Battemer (12 Christie Pattison), 11 Mustafa Tiryaki (16 Reece Grant). Unused sub - Marcel Barrington. Iron lads improve fitness with two games in 24 hours Iron continued their pre-season build-up with the squad split over two games against Cambridge United on Friday evening and at Dereham Town on Saturday. Against a strong Cambridge United side, the visitors took the lead very early on. For much of the rest of the game their wasn't much to choose between the sides. Iron changed eight of their starting line up at half time and Cambridge made multiple changes. Two goals in two minutes at the end of the game gave Cambridge a bigger winning margin than they possibly deserved. On Saturday Iron controlled much of the first half of the game without particularly troubling the Dereham goal. Defensive lapses twice enabled the home side to get through but on each occasion timely goal line clearances prevented them taking the lead. However the home side did break through just before the interval to go in 1-0 ahead. Ten of the starting line up had played against Cambridge the night before and understandably in such difficult conditions the second period was lacklustre. In injury time a Joe Ellul header was acrobatically tipped over the bar to prevent the tie going straight to a penalty shoot out. The final whistle blew shortly afterwards, and it was the Bostik North side who lifted the Chris Wright Memorial Trophy. With thanks to Jon Weaver, the line-ups were as follows: v Cambridge United: 1 Nathan McDonald, (SUB. 1 Ashlee Jones), 2 Jonathan Muleba (35 Mahrez Bettache), 3 Ben Wyatt (17 Aaron Jones), 4 Joe Ellul (14 Cody Lyons-Foster), 5 Josh Hill (replaced by Joe Ellul, returning to the pitch), 6 Michael Clark (replaced by Christie Pattison, returning to the pitch), 7 Marcel Barrington (15 Christian Frimpong), 8 Luke Allen (16 Billy Crook), 9 Lyle Delle Verde (replaced by Mohamed Bettamer, returning to the pitch), 10 Mohamed Bettamer (12 Irnti Rapai), 11 Christie Pattison (15 Reece Grant). v Dereham Town: 1 Nathan McDonald, 2 Mahrez Bettache, 3 Archie Edwards (SUB. 17 Edwin Mensah), 4 Lyle Delle Verde ( 16 Isaac Nkosi) 5 Joe Ellul, 6 Christian Frimpong, 7 Luke Allen, 8 Billy Crook (15 Toib Adeyemi), 9 Irnti Rapai (12 Reece Grant), 10 Marcel Barrington (14 Jack Curtis), 11 Christie Pattison (replaced by Irnti Rapai returning to the pitch). Sudbury beaten 4-2 |