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Cooper equaliser secures deserved draw Braintree journeyed around the M25 to visit Aldershot Town's Recreation Ground on Tuesday evening and returned home with a deserved point, despite finish the game with just ten men. James Vennings was dismissed for two cautions just after a wicked deflection gave the home side a rather fortunate 64th minute lead. Aldershot persevered with their efforts to secure possession wide on the right. The cross came in and Josh Barrett's shot was deflected and crept inside the right upright. Chay Cooper responded in the eightieth minute, pouncing on a poor home pass, he raced to the edge of the home penalty area before steering the ball past home keeper Dewhurst. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Saturday, 4th October, when Sutton United are the visitors in the Enterprise League, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron to play Farnborough at Home Braintree have been drawn at home to FARNBOROGH in the Fourth & Final Qualifying Round, with the match set to be played on Saturday, 11th October. More news on arrangements when we have it. Iron better after the break Braintree lost 2-1 at home to Gateshead on Saturday, after making the worst possible start. With just two minutes gone a long diagonal pass from the Gateshead half found Kane Adam unmarked wide on right and he drilled his shot between keeper Mason Terry and the near upright. After 16 minutes it was 2-0 - a cross from the right found Kyle Hurst unmarked at the far post and he steered the ball into an empty net. Best chance of a poor first half for Iron was a shot from the edge of the box from Frankie Terry just before the break which missed the target. Iron were better after the interval and Terrell Works pulled a goal for Braintree on the hour. Breaking into the box before on the right sliding his effort inside the far post. Iron thought they's levelled up in time added on when the Gateshead keeper dragged the ball back over his goal line after a series of headers in a goalmouth scramble, but the referee subsequently admitted to being unsighted. Next up for Iron is a trip around the M25 this coming Tuesday, 30th September, when we visit Aldershot Town in the Enterprise League, with kick-off at 7.45pm. All square at the break, a lacklustre Iron concede twice after the interval Iron made the short journey to Boston United on Wednesday evening and came home beaten by two goals to nil. After a scrappy opening, it was Braintree that looked to more likely to break the deadlock during a lively first half. After just ten minutes Frankie Terry saw his shot zip just wide of the left upright and, four minutes later, the alert Tom Blackwell pounced on a defensive mistake to break into the home penalty area and draw a great save from home keeper Rhys Lovett. Boston could also have scored first with Jordan Cropper's cross drawing a glancing header from Rocco Coyle that just missed the target after 24 minutes. But Iron were poor after the break and conceded on 57 minutes. Two attempted defensive clearances by George Langston saw the ball fall to the waiting Cropper who drilled his low half volley back across keeper Mason Terry into the far left corner. On 90 minutes, a Chay Cooper corner was met by the head of Terry, but was denied by a superb save from Lovett. Boston secured the three points on 93 minutes a cross from the left split Braintree's static defence and found the unmarked Dylan Hill to steer the ball inside the right post. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Saturday, 27th September, when Gateshead are the visitors in the Enterprise League, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Enterprise League match at home to Gateshead on Saturday, 27th September are now available online Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will still be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who choose not to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are possible and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will NOT be in force for this game, so visiting supporters are also advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 1&2 to the right of the clubhouse. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. However, there is an increase to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00 - to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. All supporters are also advised that the Quag End Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Quag End Bar. Tom Blackwell returns from injury to secure the points Braintree journeyed down to Southanpton to visit Eastleigh and returned home with the three points from a 3-1 victory. Former Iron Aaron Blair gave the host a 21st minute lead with a sharp volley just inside the Iron 18-yard box, but an equally crisp volley 15 minutes later levelled things up. Chay Cooper's low corner was met on the full by Terrell Works and it sailed into the Eastleigh goal. The second half saw a lengthy interruption for 11 minutes for treatment to an injured home player and coincided with a first appearance for substitute Tom Blackwell. Tom made an almost immediate impact on the game - breaking on the left and firing his shot from the tightest of angles to give Iron a 2-1 advantage. With lengthy time added on for the earlier injury, Blackwell took advantage to add his second in the 102nd minute. Released by Chay Cooper, Tom cut inside on the right before drilling the ball past the home keeper for 3-1. Next up for Iron is a trip to Lincolnshire this coming Wednesday evening, 24th September, to visit Boston United, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Chay Cooper nets the decider Iron secured their second group game victory in the National League Cup with a single-goal victory against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday evening. Chay Cooper scored the decider after just eight minutes. Kamara broke on the right, cutting inside his left-footed shot was only parried by the Forest keeper Campbell and Cooper followed up to steer the ball inside the left upright. Cooper nearly added a second on 69 minutes with a dipping drive that Campbell did well to tip over, but the Iron defence held firm to maintain their 100% record in the competition. Two-up, Braintree concede injury time spot kick Iron entertained York City on Saturday and, despite leading 2-0, lost by the odd goal in five. Braintree took a fourth minute lead through Terrell Works. A throw on the right found Chay Cooper who crossed for Works to steered the ball inside the right upright from close range. Works added a second two minutes after the re-start. George Langston crossed from the left byline to the income Works who steered his shot inside the right upright from the edge of the box. An Alex Hunt free-kick on 53 minutes got the better of Mason Terry and went in off the left upright, before York levelled on 76 minutes. A John Felix cross from the right found substitute Joe Grey at the near post and his header slipped under Mason Terry for 2-2. The winner came in the third minute of time added on. A mis-hit shot from York bounced on the shoulder of Aiden Francis-Clarke but a penalty was given and Ollie Pearce converted the resultant spot kick. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Tuesday evening, 16th September, when Nottingham Forest are the visitors in the National League Cup, with kick-off at (please note) 7pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Enterprise League match at home to York City on Saturday, 13th September are now available online Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will still be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who choose not to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are possible and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game, so visiting supporters are also advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the clubhouse. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. However, there is an increase to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00 - to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. All supporters are also advised that the Quag End Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Quag End Bar. Too many defensive errors cost Iron Braintree journeyed up to visit Rochdale on Saturday and came home beaten by two goals to nil. Iron were poor during the first half and the outcome was all but over by the interval as poor defending saw Emmanuel Dieseruvwe steer his unchallenged header inside the near post from a left wing cross on 25 minutes. Then, six minutes later, Dieseruvwe completed a neat one-two in the Braintree penalty area before tucking the ball past Terry for 2-0. After the break manager Steve Pitt reorganised his line up but the home side shut up shop and comfortably completed the game without Iron really threatening. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Saturday, 13th September, when York City are the visitors, with kick-off at 3pm. Behind at the break, Braintree level early in the second half but concede a second late on Braintree welcomed Tamworth to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Tuesday evening and lost by the odd goal in three despite equalising early in the second half. The visitors were the better of the two sides and took the lead after 33 minutes when Duku took advantage of poor defensive work by Iron and netted from close range - the first goal conceded by Braintree at home this season. After the break Iron were on the front foot and levelled on 50 minutes, with Frankie Terry header home a corner. Iron continued to push forward for a second but again defensive frailties were exposed on 74 minutes as Enoru broke unchallenged through the home defence before scoring past the exposed Mason Terry. Braintree then threw bodies forward in search of a second equaliser but a combination of luck and determination by the visitors defence kept Iron at bay as we slipped to our first home defeat of the season. Next up for Iron is a trip to Lancashire this coming Saturday, 6th September, when we visit Rochdale with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Enterprise League match at home to Tamworth on Tuesday, 2nd September are now available online Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will still be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who choose not to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are possible and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in force for this game, visiting supporters are also advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the clubhouse. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. However, there is an increase to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00 - to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. All supporters are also advised that the Quag End Fan zone will be open from 6pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Quag End Bar. Iron could have been three-up before the break but it finishes goal-less Iron welcomed leaders Forest Green Rovers to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Saturday and secured a point from a goal-less draw. Iron were the better of the two sides before the break and then defended well when the Gloucestershire club pushed forward during the second half. After just 10 minutes John Akinde set up Lewis Walker in the Rovers penalty area but his snapshot zipped just over the crossbar and, four minutes later, Kamara just missed the upright with his shot on the left of the Rovers defence. At the other end Mason Terry did well to deny a Mendy header midway through the half as Rovers tried to get into the game. On the half hour Qamara was set up by Miranda, but his effort was well saved by Rover keeper McNicholas. Just before the break Hubbard saw his effort just miss the Target as Iron searched for the opener. On the hour Terry had to be at his best to tip a shot from Rovers Mitchell and then four minutes later saw Mendy's header sail over the bar. Terry had to be alert five minutes from time to hold a good Inniss header and in time added on McCallister saw his volley dip over the Iron bar as the game finished 0-0. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Tuesday evening, 2nd September, when Tamworth are the visitors with kick-off at 7.45pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Enterprise League match at home to Forest Green Rovers on Saturday, 30th August are now available online Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will still be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who choose not to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are possible and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in force for this game, visiting supporters are also advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the clubhouse. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. However, there is an increase to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00 - to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. All supporters are also advised that the Quag End Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Quag End Bar. A game to forget for the Braintree lads Bank Holiday Monday was a poor afternoon for Braintree who were second best up in the far North West. Carlisle took the lead after 14 minutes with a well placed goal from Linney on the edge of the Braintree penalty area. Armstrong's cross on 28 minutes hit and went in off George Langston to make it 2-0. Eight minutes after the interval Linney added his second from the penalty spot to make it 3-0. On 64 minutes Lilley headed home at the near post from a corner for his hat-trick on the right to make it 4-0. It was 5-0 on 79 minutes when Jack Ellis finished some neat head tennis from a corner on the left. A day to forget for the travelling Braintree fans. Next up for Iron is a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Saturday, 30th August, when Forest Green Rovers are the visitors with kick-off at 3pm. Kamara scores and Terry saves to secure three points Braintree recorded their first ever victory over Yeovil on Saturday, but they left it late to break the deadlock. With 14 minutes remaining, a Marley Miranda free-kick from deep on the right found Sahid Kamara on the edge of the visitors 18-yard box. He controlled the ball with his left before firing his shot inside the left upright with his right. In time added on Yeovil substitute Ben Wodskou drew a great save eight yards from goal from Iron keeper Mason Terry - who secured his and his team's clean sheet. Next up for Iron is the long trip to Cumbria to visit Carlisle United this coming Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August with kick-off at 3pm. Back in the game at the break, Iron dominate after the interval but finish with ten men, again Iron slipped to their second successive defeat and their second without eleven players on the pitch after going down by the odd goal in three at Boreham Wood on Wednesday evening. There was little to choose between the two sides until the home side were awarded a controversial penalty for what looked to be an innocuous hand ball , with the ball blasted ageist and Iron defender with his arms by his side from close range. Luke Norris gleefully accepted the present to put the home side ahead. Marley Marshall levelled just before the break as his effort from all of 25 yards deceived the Boreham Wood keeper Nathan Ashmore. Iron dominated the first half of the second 45 but were caught out when a cross from the left found Norris unmarked and he headed past the exposed Iron keeper Mason Terry. Frankie Terry was then dismissed for his second caution of the evening and the home side played out time to secure a somewhat fortunate three points. Next up for Iron is the visit of Yeovil Town on Saturday, 23rd August with kick-off at 3pm. Iron suffer from too many turning points in the game Iron made the 500-plus mile round trip to Hartlepool and came home beaten by two goals to nil. Both sides had 'goals' ruled out during a combative opening half hour before luck smiled on the Teeside club as Danny Johnson's cross from the right struck defender Aidan Francis-Clarke to give them an 'own-goal' lead. Ten minutes after the break Hartlepool added a second from the penalty spot. George Langston was dismissed for denying Alex Reid a goal-scoring opportunity and Reid recovered to dispatch the resultant spot kick. Late on Jon Akinde was fouled in the visitors 18-yard box to secure himself a penalty but it was well saved by home keeper Harvey Cartwright. Iron had another 'goal' disallowed for offside in the later stages, as the home side ran our 2-0 winners. Next up for Iron is a more local trip to the Hertfordshire to visit Boreham Wood this coming Wednesday evening, 25th August with kick-off at 7.45pm. Iron secure two-goal victory Braintree won their first group game in the National League Cup with a 2-0 against visiting Leicester City on Tuesday evening. A crisp effort from Chay Cooper on the half hour saw Iron take the lead before Fletcher Hubbard added a second moments after coming off the bench as a substitute on the hour. Next up for Iron is a trip to the North East to visit Hartlepool United this coming Saturday, 16th August with kick-off at 3pm. Opening results sees Iron on top! Iron moved to the top of the first Enterprise League table after the opening Saturday's three goal victory over Halfax Town. After just three minutes a cross from the left found Lewis Walker on the edge of the Halifax six yard box where he timed his header to perfection to steer the ball inside the far right hand upright. On the half hour Braintree doubled their advantage. This time Walker was the provider. His cross from the right was aimed at Jon Akinde, but the ball looked set to be gathered by Halifax keeper Sam Johnson, only for pressure from Frankie Terry to make the visiting custodian take his eye off the ball and palm the ball into his own net for 2-0. Midway through the second half Walker added his second. A free kick from deep on the right found George Langston - his header was only skied by the Halifax defence and it fell to the grateful Walker to drill the ball home from ten yards out. In time added on Halifax were given a chance to net a late consolation from the penalty spot, but the penalty was well saved by Mason Terry. Next up for Iron is our first National League Cup group game at home to Leicester City with kick-off (please note) at 7pm. Tickets for Braintree's first Enterprise League match at home to FC Halifax Town on Saturday, 9th August are now available online Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will still be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who choose not to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will not be in force for this game, but visiting supporters are also advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 1%2 to the left of the clubhouse. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. However, there is an increase to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00 - to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. All supporters are also advised that the Quag End Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Quag End Bar. Confirmed for Tuesday, 12 August with 7pm kick-off Our first group game in the National League Cup will be against Leicester City, with this match confirmed for Tuesday, 12th August, with kick-off at 7pm. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. pick up yours this week - on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evening Printing of the Club season tickets is now underway and they should be ready for collection next week. We hope to have them available for collection from the Clubhouse on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evening from 7.30-9.30pm. Any season tickets left unclaimed will be available for collection from 1.30pm at the season ticket turnstile (Gate 5) on Saturday, 9th August when we are at home to FC Halifax Town. Replica shirts will also be on sale - adults £45, childs - £40. Last home friendly finishes 1-1 John Akinde continued his pre-season build-up with another 45 minutes and a goal against Colchester United. The Iron striker looked fit and sharp and put Braintree ahead on 28 minutes heading home Chay Cooper's cross from the right. The visitors levelled things up two minutes before the break as the teams turned around all square. No goals in the second half saw the game finish 1-1. Next up is this coming Saturday, 2nd August, when we play our last pre-season match at Worthing, with kick-off at 3pm kick-off. Orange & royal blue quarters at home, white away We hope to be wearing our new kit for the forthcoming season tomorrow evening. The home kit is orange and royal blue quartered shirts, orange shorts and orange socks. Away from home Iron will wear all white or white shirts, orange shorts. We also hope to have a supply of replica shirts available from the Supporters Club shop at £45 for adult sizes and £40 for youngsters. If you'd like to purchase your shirt, see Jon Weaver in the Supporters Club shop.   Lads continue to prepare for first league match Braintree welcomed Fulham's Under 21s on Friday and lost by a single goal two minutes from time. But the evening saw Iron's squad match the Premier League side during the first half and could have won the game after the break only to concede to a late, late goal from Fulham's Terrell Works. Next up is this coming Tuesday, 29th July when we welcome Colchester United for a 7.45pm kick-off. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. Braintree denied by home defence and keeper Braintree made the short trip to Enfield Town on Tuesday evening and came home beaten by two goals to nil. Despite the defeat, the Iron players created numerous chances that, on another day, could have led to victory. Former Iron Lamar Reynolds put the Enterprise League South side ahead after twelve minutes, before Braintree had the better of the exchanges having countless chances to level. After the break Iron continued to probe before conceding a penalty on 71 minutes, which an Enfield Town trialist converted to give them the victory. Next up is this coming Friday, 25th July when we welcome Fulham for a 7.45pm kick-off. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. Three goals in five minutes mid-way through the first half Iron continued their pre-season build-up with a comfortable three goal victory at Sudbury on Saturday. All three goals came in a five minute purple patch mid-way through the first half. The first goal on 20 minutes was by a trialist who converted a fine through ball from James Vennings. Three minutes later Lewis Walker volleyed home a cross from another trialist, before another trialist scored our third on 25 minutes from close range. Next up is a trip to Enterprise League South side Enfield Town this Tuesday evening, 22nd July. Our next home match is this coming Friday, 25th July when we welcome Fulham for a 7.45pm kick-off. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. Iron second best to strong U's side We welcomed Cambridge United to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Tuesday evening and were beaten 3-0 by a strong starting eleven from the Newmarket Road club. Kaikai put the visitors ahead after 13 minutes. Two minutes after the re-start Watts added a second for Cambridge before Knight added a third for the visitors on 68 minutes. Next up for Braintree is a trip to neighbours Sudbury this coming Saturday, followed by a trip to Enterprise League South side Enfield Town next Tuesday, 22nd July. Our next home match is next Friday, 25th July when we welcome Fulham for a 7.45pm kick-off. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. Iron victorious at Billericay Braintree made it two wins out of two pre-season fixtures with a two goal victory at New Lodge - home of Billericay Town on Saturday. A game in which Iron boss Steve Pitt fielded two starting XI's for each half saw the sides turn around goal-less. Iron eventually got their noses in front on the hour when quick reactions from Lewis Walker in the home 18-yard area saw him pounce to head home past the stranded the Billericay keeper. Aiden Francis-Clarke doubled Braintree's lead with 13 minutes remaining, with another fine header. Next up for Braintree is a first home friendly match this coming Tuesday when we welcome Cambridge United for a 7.45pm kick-off. No tickets will be available in advance for this match. Admission will be via turnstiles 1 & 2 at the Clubhouse End of the ground and the price of entry has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and Under 18s. with Southend United to visit on Boxing Day Braintree Town start their forthcoming 2025/26 Enterprise League fixtures with a home match at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium against visitors FC Halifax Town on Saturday 9th August. The Club will once again be entering the National League Cup competition and have their first fixture on the first Wednesday of the season, 13th August, with a home fixture against opposition - still to be drawn. Braintree's second Saturday of the season, 16th August, will see them travelling north to visit Hartlepool United, before a more local second away fixture - on Wednesday, 20th August - at newly promoted Boreham Wood. Our second home Enterprise League fixture of the season is on Saturday, 23rd August when Yeovil Town are the visitors. On August Bank Holiday Monday, 25th August, Braintree travel north to visit Carlisle United. The other holiday fixtures offer attractive local fixtures. On Boxing Day, Friday, 26th December, Braintree are at home to Essex neighbours Southend United, followed by a trip to visit Woking on Tuesday, 30 December. At Easter, Braintree visit Southend United for the return of the Boxing Day fixture on Good Friday, 3rd April, before welcoming Woking for the return on Easter Monday, 6th April. Braintree conclude their 2025/26 Enterprise League campaign at Tamworth on Saturday, 25th April 2026. In the Emirates FA Cup, Iron once again enter the competition at the Fourth and final Qualifying Round stage on Saturday, 11th October, with the First Round date for those lucky enough to progress three weeks later on Saturday, 1st November. The draw for the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round will be made on Monday, 29th September. In the Isuzu FA Trophy, Braintree are once again exempted until the last 64 of the competition - the Third Round Proper - with this match scheduled for Saturday, 13th December. The draw for this match will be made on Monday, 17th November. Braintree will also enter the Essex Senior Cup this season, with more information when we have it, and a Braintree youth side have re-applied to join the Eastern Counties Youth League - with games to be played on the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium pitch midweek. Iron win by odd goal in three at Canvey Braintree made the journey to Canvey Island on Tuesday evening and won their first friendly match of the season by the odd goal in three. New signing Lewis Walker put Iron ahead on 39 minutes before a trialist doubled our advantage twenty minutes after the interval. The home side reduced the arrears with nine minutes remaining. Next up for Braintree is another away friendly match this coming Saturday when we visit Billericay Town for a 3pm kick-off. All fans are invited from 10-12 Iron Manager Steve Pitt has invited all supporters to watch Saturday's Open Training Session - from 10am to 12noon - free of charge, with the Clubhouse open from 12 noon thereafter.  NATIONAL LEAGUE ANNOUNCES ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR AS TITLE SPONSOR IN LANDMARK MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT significant new partnership with vehicle rental company as its title sponsor The National League has today announced a significant new partnership with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, confirming the vehicle rental company as its title sponsor. The agreement, commencing in June 2025, will see Enterprise take the naming rights to the National League and its three divisions - becoming the Enterprise National League, the Enterprise National League North, and the Enterprise National League South, respectively - marking a major investment in non-league football and community engagement. The collaboration unites the National League, an organisation steeped in the rich history of English football, with Enterprise, a company already deeply committed to supporting local communities nationwide. For generations, the National League has served as a vital stepping stone for clubs aspiring to reach the higher echelons of the game, while simultaneously fostering a passionate and dedicated fan base that spans the entire nation. The National League's enduring appeal is further evidenced by its impressive growth in attendance figures over the past three seasons, demonstrating the loyalty of supporters and the increasing excitement surrounding the competition. Week after week, grounds across the country welcome fans who are united by their shared love for their local teams and the captivating drama of non-league football, showcased most recently at the National League Promotion Final in front of a record-breaking crowd at Wembley Stadium. The new multi-year agreement represents an exciting opportunity for Enterprise to further its long-standing commitment to supporting local communities nationwide. By aligning with the National League, Enterprise will gain visibility across a passionate and engaged audience, reinforcing its position as a trusted and community-focused brand. Enterprise will also explore opportunities to provide practical support to clubs, fans and their communities by leveraging its extensive network of more than 450 branches in the UK and its wider range of vehicles. Jack Pearce, National League Chairman commented: "We are delighted to welcome Enterprise as our new headline sponsor. This is a significant partnership for the National League and a testament to the growing strength and appeal of our competition. Enterprise shares our deep-rooted commitment to communities, and its support will be invaluable in helping our clubs to thrive." Kyle Sanborn, Vice President Global Brand Strategy & Marketing Activation, Enterprise Mobility, said: "Enterprise is incredibly proud to be partnering with the National League. We recognise the vital role these clubs play in their local communities and the passion they inspire in fans nationwide. This sponsorship provides a fantastic platform for us to demonstrate our commitment to supporting these communities and explore innovative ways to provide mobility solutions for both the clubs and their dedicated supporters. We look forward to a successful and impactful partnership." Ten remain for next season Following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, the Club can confirm its retained and released list. The following players remain under contract with the Club for the 2025/26 season: John Akinde Tom Blackwell Ryan Clampin Chay Cooper Aiden Francis-Clarke Alan Judge George Langston Marley Marshall-Miranda Jacob Pinnington James Vennings The following players are in discussions regarding new deals in advance of next season: Jamal Fyfield Matt Robinson The following players have left the club this summer: Louie Annesley (Dorking Wanderers) Kyrell Lisbie (Peterborough United) Philip Haxthausen Nielsen The following players have returned to their parent clubs following the conclusion of their loans: Jermaine Francis (Barnet) Henry Gray (Ipswich Town) Emmanuel Okunowo (Ipswich Town) Braintree Town Football Club places on record its thanks to all players for their contributions during their time with the Club, and wishes those players leaving all the very best for the future. Confirmation of the First Team Management Team and news of our first signing of the summer will be made in the next few days. Manager Steve Pitt had nothing but praise for those departing the club as the Iron maintained their National League status for the coming season: "As ever this is really busy period with lots of discussions happening behind the scenes as we prepare for another season in the National League. Sadly during this period difficult decisions have to be made both by the club and individual players and we wish those departing all the best for their further careers. Pitt added "The departure of Kyrell has been well documented and we look forward to see his progress in the Football League at Peterborough United, he was instrumental in us staying up last season and I thank him for his efforts. Louie is another player who I've grown tremendously fond of in my time at the club and unfortunately although I would have liked to have retained him, he has received an excellent offer both financially and geographically and again I wish him all the very best for the future." The loan market was crucial for the Iron since Pitt's arrival in November and he had this to say on those returning to their parent clubs. "As well as Kyrell and Louie we obviously see Henry, Jermaine and Manny depart as they return to Barnet and Ipswich. Jermaine was a player who bought in to everything I asked from the squad since the day I arrived and we will continue to chat with him and his agent to see what the future holds. I have nothing but praise for Henry and the way he conducted himself whilst with us and although Manny picked up an injury which restricted his appearances, again he was a joy to work with and I look forward to seeing how their careers develop." Kim Cowell passes away The arrangements for the funeral of Club Director Kim Cowell have been agreed. Kim's funeral will be held on Thursday, 26th June 2025 at the Dunmow Crematorium at 2pm. An adjacent barn for tea and coffee has been booked for thereafter. Club Director passes away It is with tremendous regret that we have to advise of the passing of Club Director Kim Cowell. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Trip to Suffolk in July It has been agreed to send a side to visit Sudbury for a pre-season friendly on Saturday, 19th July, with kick-off at 3pm. "if Kyrell achieved our target we would stay up" Steve Pitt reflected on working with Kyrell Lisbie: "From the time I walked in the building I made it perfectly clear to Kyrell that he would be an essential part of my strategy for this football club and its future success. "He and I set himself a target goals wise for the season and he pretty much achieved that. "My view was that if Kyrell achieved our target we would stay up. "We sat down thereafter every fortnight and discussed where we were for better or worse on a very open and honest basis. He absorbs all the information he can and uses it wisely. "Sadly my staff and I knew after the Rochdale game that Kyrell would be heading for a bigger stage but he now departs with our complete blessing in the belief that this is just the beginning of his journey in the game." Sixteen goal prodigy moves into League One The Club have reached an agreement with Peterborough United to transfer the registration of Kyrell Lisbie to the Sky Bet League One side. The 21-year old joined the Club a year ago from Isthmian Leaguers Cray Valley PM and scored 16 goals in his fifty appearances. Recognising the tremendous season he had enjoyed, Kyrell was named the Sportsbeat Young Player of the Year at the National Game Awards last week. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased to see another player progress from the Club into the Football League: "Kyrell has enjoyed a fantastic season with us and fully deserves his chance to play in the Football League. His record of 16 goals in 50 games played a major part in our securing our status in the National League. After the likes of Alex Revell and Sim Akinola, its rewarding to see another Braintree player stepping up into the League. Good luck and thank you Kyrell!" Get your discounted tickets by 4pm Saturday As we approach the last week of May, the clock is ticking for all Iron fans to take advantage of their season ticket discounts for next season. For this busy week of the close season, the Iron Clubhouse will be open on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, from 7.30pm - 9pm, and on Saturday afternoon, from 12 noon - 4pm, for supporters wishing to drop off their season ticket application forms and payment to secure discounted prices. Don't forget, to reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by the 4pm on Saturday, 31st May deadline will remain unchanged at: Adults - £360.00, OAPs - £270.00, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the prices for next season: "Season ticket sales are going well, with sales just ahead of where we were at this stage last season. With the manager and the majority of last season's squad already committed to the Club for next season, all our Iron season tickets remain as last year and offer some tremendous savings. The Adult ticket offers almost 25% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and Under 12s are almost nearly 70% off the cost of the 23 matches!" Trips to step two and three sides Four additional pre-season fixtures have been agreed. Our first confirmed fixture is now on Tuesday, 8th July when we travel to Isthmian League Premier Division side Canvey Island. This is followed by a trip to fellow Isthmian League Premier Division side Billericay Town on Saturday, 12th July. We are still to confirm a game for Saturday, 19th July, but the following Tuesday evening, 22nd July, we visit National League South side Enfield Town. We conclude our pre-season fixtures with a trip to the South Coast to play Worthing on Saturday, 2nd August. A full list of our pre-season schedule is to the right. The National League 2025/2026 season starts on Saturday, 9th August. Can you help the Club with these important roles? The Club have vacancies for Turnstile Operators and Stewards on a matchday at the Club next season. Both will be eligible to claim for their out of pocket expenses. Both Turnstile Operators and Stewards will need to be at the Club two hours before kick-off. If you would like to assist the Club with these important roles, please contact the Club Chairman at chairman@braintreetownfc.org.uk for more information. Get your discounted tickets now! The Iron Clubhouse will be open on Thursday evenings, from 7.30pm - 9pm, and on Saturday afternoons, from 12 noon - 4pm, throughout May for supporters wishing to drop off their season ticket application forms and payment before the Saturday, 31st May deadline for discounted prices. To reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by the Saturday, 31st May deadline will remain unchanged at: Adults - £360.00, OAPs - £270.00, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the prices for next season: "All Iron season tickets remain as last year and offer some tremendous savings. The Adult ticket offers almost 25% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and Under 12s are almost nearly 70% off the cost of the 23 matches!" Pre-season schedule starts to take place We have already started work on our pre-season fixtures for next season. Our first confirmed fixture is on Tuesday, 15th July when we entertain League Two side Cambridge United, followed by the visit of a Fulham XI on Friday, 25th July. We then welcome League Two side Colchester United on Tuesday, 29th July. The National League 2025/2026 season starts on Saturday, 9th August. Rochdale scalp added to top three victims Braintree Town secured their National League status for another year and at the same time added Rochdale to the top three sides in the division as those beaten by the Club at home this season. After a quiet and nervous opening half hour, Iron grew into the game and took the lead moments before the interval. Ryan Clampin fed Kyrell Lisbie from the left. His mis-kick fell to Tom Blackwell who saw his effort fall back to Lisbie who then steered the ball past Rochdale keeper Killian Barrett from close range for 1-0. It was 2-0 ten minutes after the re-start. Chay Cooper's cross from the right was miskicked by Rochdale centre-half Jack Kingdon. The ball fell kindly for Lisbie who cut the ball back inside before sliding the ball inside the near upright to double the advantage. Braintree controlled the remainder of the game to secure the three points that saw them move above both Boston and Yeovil to finish seventeenth in the final table. Season ticket and online prices unchanged for another year The Club have agreed upon their matchday and season ticket prices for the 2025/26 campaign. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. The only increase is to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00, to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. To reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by Saturday, 31st May will remain unchanged at: Adults - £360.00, OAPs - £270.00, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the prices for next season: "We are confident that our matchday prices remain competitive and offer value for money. To that, all Iron season tickets offer some tremendous savings. The Adult ticket offers almost 25% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and Under 12s are almost nearly 70% off the cost of 23 matches! "Like every other business we are facing increases to our costs. From National Insurance to energy and water, our overheads as a business continue to climb. We are also looking to provide our Manager Steve Pitt with a competitive playing budget while striving to put in place a programme of maintenance at our stadium, with works planned to our stadium toilet facilities a priority!" Season ticket application forms will be available from the Clubhouse bar and completed forms together with payments should be deposited at the Clubhouse bar - who will also be able to take any card payments.
|   - - - Sat 4 October 2025 (3pm) SUTTON UNITED (HOME) Sat 11 October 2025 (3pm) FARNBOROUGH (HOME) FA Cup 4th Qual. Round Sat 18 September 2025 (12.30) Solihull Moors (Away) Tue 21 October 2025 (7.45) WEST BROM. A (NLC) (HOME) - - - HOW WE STAND   .jpg) |