Hakan adds four Goalkeeper, striker and two defenders join Iron Iron Manager Hakan Hayrettin has added four players to his squad for tomorrow's live BT Sport match against Solihull Moors. Joining the squad is 23-year old defender Ejiro Okosieme who has joined from fellow National League side Dover Athletic. Ejiro started his career playing for Colchester United's academy before joining Middlesbrough where he played for their under-18 and under-21 teams. He also had a brief spell with Macclesfield Town. Hakan has also added Taylor Curran on loan from Southend United. The 19-year old central defender has done well in the Blues' U18s & U23s and has now signed a two-year professional contract with the Roots Hall club. Next signing is goalkeeper George Legg on loan from Championship side Reading. Ahead of the current campaign, George was yet to make a debut for the Royals' senior team, but he had been named on the bench on numerous occasions as cover for the starter. He has, however, regularly featured for the Royals' Under-23 squad and in our Checkatrade Trophy campaigns and had loans at Hendon, Dunstable, Chesham, Hampton & Richmond, Gosport and Barnet. Fourth new signing is 20-year old striker Norman Wabo on loan from Southend United, after signing his first professional contract - a one year deal with an option for another year. Wabo spent the end of the 2016/17 on loan at Cambridge City in The Evo-Stik Southern Premier League scoring four goals in five appearances. Match Preview - Saturday 17 November 2018 Braintree T v Solihull Moors - kick-off 12.30 Last season, Solihull M finished 18th in the Vanarama National League on 54 points. They are currently 5th on 36 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 6 D 5 L 12 GF 21 GA 30 Pts 23. Their away record this season is: P 9 W 5 D 0 L 4 GF 12 GA 14 Pts 15. Last 4 away results: Won 1-3 v Maidstone U, Lost 2-0 v Barnet, Won 0-1 v Havant & W, Won 0-2 v Dover A. Top scorers last season: Oladapo Afolayan (now West Ham U U23's) - 11, Darren Carter - 7, Adi Yussuf - 5. Scorers this season: Adi Yussuf - 8(1p) Dan Wright - 7, Jermaine Hylton - 5, Luke Maxwell - 3. Braintree Town are currently 23rd on 13 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 9 W 1 D 1 L 7 GF 8 GA 19 Pts 4. Braintree T home 4 results this season: Won 2-1 v Dover A, Lost 1-2 v Eastleigh, Lost 1-5 v L. Orient, Lost 0-1 v Maidstone U. Scorers this season: Reece Grant - 6 (1p), Lyle Della-Verde - 3. Former Wolves, Southampton and Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper, Tim Flowers, took over as manager of the Moors in June this year and has them already well on target to surpass last season's points total. Meanwhile; Hakan has been confirmed as Braintree's new full-time boss, so expect to see some new faces. The last time the teams met at Cressing Road was on 29 October 2016 when the visitors won one-nil courtesy of 86th minute penalty converted by Harry White. After picking up some very useful points in October, the Iron last their first fixture in November in a close encounter with Aldershot T and their early exit from the F A Cup saw them with a free Saturday last weekend. With our visitors either winning or losing on the road so far this season, will the TV cameras be here to record a second consecutive home win for the Iron? Remember to get here early for the early kick-off and discounted price admission. Talking to Christian Frimpong all about playing and injuries DOB: 13/11/98 (19) Born: Ghana Previous clubs: Bristol C Academy, Reading Academy, Swindon T Position: Centre Back/Defensive Midfield Q. Do you have another job? A. Yes, I do work for Community Iron and also work in a warehouse Q. Who do you support? A. Manchester U Q. Who is your current favourite Man U player? A. Juan Mata Q. What was the last film you went to see? A. Venom Q. What are you listening to in the car at the moment? A. Drake, Eminem, African music Q. What is your favourite meal? A. Full roast chicken, white rice, peri-peri sauce chips Q. At what age were you spotted by Bristol C, who were you playing for? A. I was playing for Chippenham T Youth. I joined Bristol C U12's as a striker. I scored 37 goals in 16 games. The following season, we were short of defenders and I played right back and did well and developed from there. Q. What were your personal highlights of last season? A. Winning our first game 3-2 at Eastbourne, how we defended with 9 men at Havant & W and the last penalty kick in the play-off final & jumping all over Diaz Q. This season you rarely featured, how did you feel/deal with this? A. I wasn't happy. You don't feel so bad if the lads are winning, so it was very frustrating, I felt worthless, but the new manager has come in and played me. Now I need to get over my injury. Q. What do you feel is your best position? A. I thought that I'd done alright the few times I'd played right wing back, but I think cntral defensive midfield is now my best position Q. Are there any of last season's players you would like to have stayed? A. Marc Okoye, we missed him at the beginning of the season, also Alfred Mugabo. Q. Which of the new players has impressed you and why? A. Mo Sagaf, he's strong for his size and good on the ball. He needs to know when to release ball quicker. Q. What are your thoughts on Brad's departure? A. Football is a business and if it isn't working, then you need to change it. I liked him as a man and manager. Q. What differences have you noticed under Hakan? A. We play with a lot more aggression and purpose. We have to play his way and nobody gets any special treatment. He's brought structure to the side. Q. In the games you have played this season, what differences have you noticed in this League? A. You need more endurance as there is more running with most teams being full time and fitter. It's more physical. Q. Who is the fittest player at the club? A. Lyle Della-Verde Q. Who is the best tackler? A. Me Q. Who is the laziest trainer? A. No one, since Hakan & Dan came in, training has been stepped up and no one is allowed to slacken or they are pulled up. Q. Which player would you have in a quiz team? A. None, maybe Luke Allen as he works in an office Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. Mid-table. Hakan back as Iron boss assisted by Danny, Dave & Danny! Braintree Town have appointed Hakan Hayrettin as their First Team Manager after a successful four-week caretaker period during which time the Club secured seven points from four league matches and made progress in the County Cup. Hakan will be assisted by coaches Danny Searle, Dave Blackmore and Danny Whitehorne. Chairman Lee Harding was delighted with the outcome: "All of us on the Board have been impressed with the way that Hak and his coaches have turned our fortunes around. We all realise that there is still a lot of challenges ahead of us, but we are back in touch with the sides above us and it's encouraging to see the lads working hard but also playing with a smile on their faces." Hakan was also pleased: "I'm really looking forward to it. We've got a busy couple of weeks to work through to get ourselves ready for the game against Solihull at home a week on Saturday. Let's go to work!" Iron rue missed chances Cracking free-kick the difference There was heartbreak for Iron in the dying moments of this game at the EBB Stadium on Saturday when the home side snatched a late winner with a superbly taken free-kick by Adam McDonnell with just seven minutes to go that ended Iron's recent unbeaten run. The added irony is that it was the home side's only shot on target all afternoon whilst up at the other end Iron were far more dangerous in front of goal creating six decent goal scoring chances but failing to take one and they paid the price at the final whistle. "We paid the price for not taking at least one if not two or three more of our chances because we created more all afternoon and should have won the game," said caretaker manager Hakan Heyrattin. "I'm really disappointed because we played our high tempo game and continually caused their defence problems throughout the game. All the players did well but we need to do better. "There's a very thin line between winning and losing a game and today we were unfortunately on the wrong side," he continued."If we had taken one of our chances and scored then I am confident we would have gone to win and get the three points." Overall Iron were the better side in their approach play and after a cautious start by both sides the first of the Iron chances came on 25 minutes when on-loan striker Virgil Gomis lifted the ball over home keeper Will Mannion only to see the ball hacked off the goal line by defender Gabriel Osho. Moments later Reece Grant looked certain to score from close range but he headed the ball into the side netting with Mannion beaten again and right on half time another clear counter attack saw Grant heading goalward only to shoot straight at Mannion who pulled off a fine save. The second half again saw the Iron making most of the running and there was another chance for Gomis created by Mo Sagaf and the striker did well to pivot on the ball on the edge of the penalty box only to see his shot charged down almost again on the line again before being cleared. Every time Iron broke forward they looked the more likely side to break the deadlock and midway through the half a great right wing run by Kyle Della-Verde saw him whip a low cross into the area where both the unmarked Gomis and Grant failed to connect by literally inches. Iron kept up the pressure against a suspect home rearguard and on 75 minutes Gomis had another great opportunity to score but his shot was saved by the outstretched legs of keeper Mannion. With the game entering the final minutes of the game Iron gave away an unnecessary free kick just outside their area on 83 minutes and up stepped McDonnell to strike an impressive curling shot that deceived both the Iron defensive wall and keeper Ashlee Jones. In the remaining few minutes Iron pressurised the home defence with several high balls into their area but they somehow managed each time to scramble the ball away, leaving the dejected Iron players to rue their seven decent chances to have scored which was six more than the home side. Iron now have a two week match break before they entertain Solihull Moors on November 17 by which time Heyrattin will be hoping some of his injured first team players will have recovered and be fit for selection consideration. Braintree Town: Jones; Muleba, Lyons-Foster, Ellul, Gabriel; Della-Verde (88 Cass), Sagaf, Amaluzor (56 Pattison), James; Grant, Gomis. Unused subs: Webber, Allen, Ochieng. Attendance: 1,618. Referee: Andrew Miller. Match Preview - Sat Nov 3 2018 Aldershot T v Braintree Town Last season Aldershot T finished 5th in the Vanarama National League North on 75 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 11 D 7 L 5 GF 35 GA 23 Pts 40. They are currently 15th on 21 points. Their home record this season is P 9 W 5 D 2 L 2 GF 13 GA 8 Pts 17. Their last 4 home results this season: Drew 1-1 v Boreham Wood, Won 3-0 v F.C. Halfax T, Lost 0-1 v Maidenhead U, Won 2-0 v Dover A. Top scorer last season: Scott Rendell Ð 12, Shamir Fenelon Ð 10, Jim Kellerman (now at AFC Fylde on loan from St Mirren) & Matt McClure Ð 6. Top scorers this season: Scott Rendell Ð 6, Adam May & Adam McDonnell Ð 3, Matt McClure - 2. Braintree T are currently 23rd in the Vanarama National League on 13 points. Braintree T away record this season: P 9 W 2 D 3 L 4 GF 9 GA 12 Pts 9. Braintree T last 4 away results this season: Won 2-4 v Bromley, Drew 2-2 v Salford C, Lost 3-0 v AFC Fylde, Won 0-1 v Gateshead. Braintree T scorers this season: Reece Grant & Mo Bettamer Ð 6 (1p), Della-Verde - 3 Aldershot Town were beaten in last season's play-off eliminators by Ebbsfleet U. The game ended 1- after extra time and they went out beaten 5-4 on penalties. Despite a good season last time out, the Shots have undergone a squad overhaul during the summer. They have seven players loaned to them from mainly Championship and EFL1 clubs. Former Iron favourite Dan Holman did originally sign for them in the summer, but was released at the end of October. The teams last met at the Rec on 29 April 2017, the hosts consigning Braintree to their relegation back to the VNL South. The 2-0 victory came courtesy of goals from Will Evans and former Braintree loanee Bernard Mensah. In contrast to his last visit there, Hakan returns to Aldershot with a younger team and one beginning to show some form. Can we finally get out of the bottom four? Talking to: Kodi Lyons-Foster A better tempo - I'm enjoying the sessions DOB: 19/10/96 (22) Born: London Previous Clubs: Tottenham H (U18), Aston Villa (U18-23), Bristol C, Guernsey Lions (L), Aldershot, Whitehawk Position: Centre Back Q. Do you have another job? A. No 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. Kojo Funds Q. Which social media do you use? A. Twitter & Instagram Q. Where did you holiday in the summer? A. I stayed at home Q. What are your strengths/weaknesses? A. Strengths Ð on the ball Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Charly Musonda at Chelsea Q. Who is the best coach you've worked for? A. John McDermott at Spurs Q. What is the best footballing advice you've been given? A. Play your own game Ð John McDermott Q. Who did you play with at Villa? A. Jack Grealish (should be in the England team), Callum Robinson, Andre Green, Christian Benteke Q. How did your move to Braintree come about? A. Through my agent Q. How has training changed since Hakan has been here? A. It's very good, better tempo, I enjoy the sessions Q. How do you think you have done so far, do you prefer defence or midfield? A. I've done okay, but there's more to come. It's a hard one, but I do like to play in midfield Q. Which player is the hardest to mark in training and why? A. Dan Thompson Ð because he's big and awkward Q. How do you pass your time on long away trips? A. Sleeping Q. Who is the worst dressed player at the club? A. Christie Pattison Q. Who is the team joker? A. Reece Grant/Billy Crook Ð he does a good impression of Barry Bolton & Harry Redknapp Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Pochettino, I admire what he has done at Spurs and Southampton Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. We'll stay up 100% Three League games unbeaten Iron good value for three points Iron made it back to back wins at Hayes Lane on Tuesday evening by overcoming a strong home side with four well taken goals, despite having to cope with tremendous second half pressure in which the defence and stand-in goalkeeper Ashley Jones were outstanding. It left caretaker manager Hakan Hayrettin with a big smile on his face having seen his side impose themselves on their hosts from the kick off with their high tempo game, quick attacking and excellent defending when needed. "I'm really proud of the boys because they have responded well to what we want which is work hard with the ball, positive attacking as a unit and cutting out any silly mistakes," he declared. "Having gone 3-1 up early in the second half we conceded a poor goal but the players kept their heads up, kept working and believing in themselves. "When it was 3-2 the home side threw the kitchen sink at us but we defended magnificently and the defence were fantastic and then we broke away an scored that all important fourth goal that saw us go over the line. "I think we deserved to win and get the three points and now we have to again carry all this hard work on to the next game and keep our consistency with no players hiding from their responsibilities," he added. "It's all about them having the right mindset and showing the right character plus working for each with front and midfield players chasing back to defend too." The Iron had the best possible start taking a sixth minute lead when on-loan striker Virgil Gomis from Nottingham Forest show his pace and tenacity by latching on to a fine through ball from Cameron James and lobbing it over the head of the advancing home keeper David Gregory into the net, scoring his first goal for the club. The home side retaliated and equalised on 18 minutes when a mistake by left-back Ricky Gabriel let a low right cross come into the areas and Joe Quigley side footed the ball into the Iron net. Undeterred four minutes later the Iron went in front again thanks to some fine work down the right flank by Jon Muleba and Justin Amaluzor that saw a low cross sent into the heart of the six yard box and there was Reece Grant on hand to pivot and drive the ball into the net. It was no more than the Iron deserved for their impressive first half display. Three minutes after the restart the Iron scored that important third goal when a brilliant run from the half way line by Lyle Della-Verde, clearly the Iron's man of the match, who held off two defenders to fire home a low shot from the edge of the area. Back though came the home side and they managed their second goal on 58 minutes when substitute Omar Bugiel was allowed too much room out on the left wing and he cut inside to drive a low ball into the bottom right-hand corner of the net. With their tails up the home side kept attacking but some stout defending by the Iron, including one off the line by Della-Verde, saw them survive the barrage and on yet another counter attack on 84 minutes substitute Christie Pattison broke down the right wing and his accurate centre into the middle saw Grant racing through to poke the ball low into the net past the stranded home keeper. Having weathered the home storm the Iron easily saw the game out and they could even have added a fifth in injury time but substitute Jake Cass, on for the tiring Gomis, just failed to find the target with a good effort. With seven points from a possible nine in their three league games under Hayrettin, Iron have closed the gap on clubs immediately above them and they will be looking for three more on Saturday when they go to Aldershot, kick off 3pm. Braintree Town: Jones; Muleba, Ellul, Lyons-Foster, Gabriel; Amaluzor (62 Pattison), Sagaf, James (82 Orchieng), Della-Verde; Gomis (77 Cass), Grant. Unused subs: Webber, Allen. Referee: Gary Parsons. Attendance: 1,008. Match Preview - Tues 30 October 2018 Bromley v Braintree Town Last season Bromley finished 9th in the Vanarama National League North on 70 points. Their home record last season was: P W10 D 8 L 6 GF 38 GA 23 Pts 38. They are currently 15th on 20 points. Their home record this season is P 8 W 3 D 3 L 2 GF 12 GA 9 Pts 12. Their last 4 home results this season: Won 2-1 v Barrow, Drew 2-2 v F. C. Halifax T, Lost 0-2 v Salford C, Lost 0-1 v Barnet. Top scorer last season: Josh Rees (now Gillingham) - 16, Louis Dennis (now Portsmouth) - 13, Jack Holland & Luke Wanadio (now Aldershot T) - 7. Top scorers this season: Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe - 6, Frankie Sutherland - 5(4p), Omar Brugiel - 4. Braintree T are currently 23rd in the Vanarama National League on 10 points. Braintree T away record this season: P 8 W 1 D 3 L 4 GF 5 GA 10 Pts 6. Braintree T last 4 away results this season: Drew 2-2 v Salford C, Lost 3-0 v AFC Fylde, Won 0-1 v Gateshead, Lost 1-0 v Dagenham & R. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 6 (1p), Reece Grant - 4(1p), Della-Verde - 2. Bromley are yet another club to make many new player recruitments over the summer. Well known to Iron fans are last season's captain Marc-Anthony Okoye and Jake Goodman. Their top scorer this season, Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe is on loan from Colchester U as is centre back Paul Rooney. The teams last met at Hayes Lane on 28 February 2017 with the Iron recording a rampant 5-0 victory. Michael Cheek gave the Iron an early lead with a fifth minute penalty. Bromley's Lee Minshull was then shown red in the 16th minute for a foul on Harry Lee. In the 32nd minute, Bromley were down to nine men when Daniel Johnson brought down Hall-Johnson in the penalty area and this time Jack Midson converted the penalty. A hat-trick of sending offs for the hosts came when manager Neil Smith was sent to the stands, before Hall-Johnson got Braintree's third. In the second half goals from Ipswich loanee Monty Patterson and a second for Hall-Johnson completed the rout, before Ian Gayle was sent off with 6 minutes left to play. Hakan has steered Braintree off the foot of the table with 4 points from the two games he has been in charge. There is still ground to be made and another stern test awaits the boys in Kent. Iron prevail in basement battle Hak discharges himself from hospital to take game In a battle of the two basement teams it was Iron who ran out deservedly winners to secure their first home league win of the season and the three points which lifted them off the bottom of the league. It was the ideal tonic for Iron manager Hakan Hayrattin who had discharged himself from hospital in the morning - so he could be at Cressing Road to be in charge for what was a crucial game dubbed as a six-pointer. "It's certainly the best tonic I could have because all the players were fantastic in the way they showed their pace and commitment throughout forcing the visitors on the back foot for long periods," he said. "Their workrate was tremendous and I am proud of them. "I felt we deserved to be one up at half time and everyone knows you want that second goal to give you breathing space," he continued. "Even when they equalised I knew the boys would not drop their heads and would keep working and playing as we had up to then and in the end we gained our just rewards. "It was a clear penalty and once in front again I felt we could go on and win with our defence really outstanding and credit to them because they have cut out the silly mistakes that has cost us games late on in recent weeks." There was new striker on show for Iron fans with 19 year-old Virgil Gomez, signed from Nottingham Forest and led the line exceptionally well and was unlucky twice in each half not have put his put his name on the scoresheet while both Justin Amaluzar and Reece Grant also fired in tremendous shots that were well saved by Athletic keeper Mitch Walker. It was Amaluzar who gave Iron their 13th minute advantage - heading in a right wing corned at the near post and twice before the break he could have added to his tally. The start of the second half saw the visitors at last starting to penetrate the home defence with their long balls into the area where they had four six-foot players waiting and the tactic finally paid off on 68 minutes when one such ball was met at the far post by Kevin Lokko to head home the equaliser. Undeterred Iron, without the injured pair of keeper Ben Killip and central defender Dave Nieskens, held firm though with the central defensive pairing of Joe Ellul and Kodi Lyons-Foster outstanding and was the key to an impressive defensive display, strongly supported by their two full-backs, Jon Maleba and Ricky Gabriel. Iron played a high pressing game throughout and the constant chasing and the pace of the midfielders was overall vastly improved over recent games with passes going to Iron players and it all paid off in the 78th minute when the on-rushing Lyle Della-Verde raced through on to a fine pass into the Athletic area and was brought down by the advancing keeper Walker. Up stepped young Grant to drive the ball into the net and the restore the home side's lead and although the visitors threw players forward in a last ditch effort to find another equaliser, the home side deservedly held on to record their first home win. A delighted Hayrettin managed to find the energy to thank his players out on the pitch before hurrying off back to hospital where he awaits an operation for the removal of kidney stones. Next up for Iron is a short trip to Bromley on Tuesday evening for another game, kick off 7.45pm. Braintree Town: Jones; Muleba, Gabriel, Ellul, Lyons-Foster; Sogaf, James, Amaluzar, Della-Verde (77 Allen); Gomis (75 Cass), Grant (88 Pattison). Subs not sued: Webber, Barrington. Attendance: 575. Match Preview - Saturday 27 October 2018 Braintree T v Dover A Last season, Dover A finished 8th in the Vanarama National League on 73 points. They are currently 23rd on 8 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 8 D 8 L 7 GF 30 GA 27 Pts 32. Their away record this season is: P 8 W 0 D 4 L 4 GF 7 GA 17 Pts 4. Last 4 away results: Drew 2-2 v Harrogate T, Drew 2-2 v Sutton U, Lost 2-0 v Aldershot, Drew 0-0 v Chesterfield. Top scorers last season: Top Scorers: Ryan Bird (now Maidenhead U) - 16, Mitchell Pinnock (now AFC Wimbledon) - 8, Giancarlo Gallifuoco (now FC Reiti, Italy Serie C), Nortei Nortey, Manny Parry (now Boreham Wood) - 5. Scorers this season: Mitch Brundle - 4 (1p), Inih Effiong & Jamie Allen (1p) - 3, Kevin Lokko - 2 Braintree Town are currently 24th on 7 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 8 W 0 D 1 L 7 GF 6 GA 18 Pts 1. Braintree T home 4 results this season: Lost 1-2 v Eastleigh, Lost 1-5 v L. Orient, Lost 0-1 v Maidstone U, Lost 0-1 v Wrexham. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 6 (1p), Reece Grant - 3, Lyle Della-Verde - 2. After a decent 2017/18 season, the Whites have found it tougher going this time around. There has been some re-building during the summer with 12 players leaving and 14 coming in. They have also had a change of manager with Eastleigh boss Andy Hessenthaler returning to the club he managed between 2007/10. He replaces their longest ever serving manager Chris Kinnear who had been at the helm for ten years. It's a quick return to Cressing Road for Hessenthaler having seen his previous charges victorious two weeks ago. He has brought in full time training for the first time in the club's history. Top scorer for Dover this season is former Iron man Mitch Brundle. Also in their ranks is pre-season triallist Aryan Tajbakhsh who scored both our goals in the friendly against Ipswich Town. He has been sent off twice this season already and the Whites will be missing Anthony Jeffery who was dismissed last time out at Harrogate Town. Iron caretaker boss Hakan Hayrettin was in charge the last time we played Dover at home on 8 April 2017. The Iron lead one-nil at half time, courtesy of a Michael Cheek headed goal. However; the Whites fought back to equalise through Connor Essam before Craig Braham-Barrett was sent off for the Iron. Dover took all three points when Ricky Miller scored their second goal in added on time. Dover progressed in the F.A. Cup last weekend winning at Concord Rangers by a single goal to nil whilst the Iron bowed out at Barnet 4-2. In the league this season Braintree haven't won at home, Dover haven't won away, who will have the nerve to take all three points? Talking to Christie Pattisson The man from Hamburg DOB: 14/4/97 (21) Born: Hamburg, Germany Previous Clubs: Brentford, Welling U, Phoenix Sports, Carshalton A Position: Winger/Midfield Q. What is your job? A. I do some football modelling Q. Who do you support? A. Chelsea Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Neymar Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. Drake Q. Where did you holiday in the summer? A. Cyprus Q. Which social media do you use? A. Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat Q. Who has been the best manager you have worked with? A. Peter Adeniyi at Carshalton Q. What is the best advice you've been given? A. Keep working and believing to get to the top (Phoenix manager) Q. What are your strengths/weaknesses? A. Strengths - pace & crossing. Weakness - not saying Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Reiss Nelson at Arsenal Q. Which boots do you wear? A. Mercurials Q. What is the best goal you've scored? A. Against Chelsea U23's (on my Twitter page) Q. How did your move to Braintree come about? A. I got a message from Brad towards the end of last season, asked if I fancied coming down Q. What differences have you noticed stepping up to the National League? A. You've got to be fitter and more alert Q. Where would you like to be in 3 years' time? A. Hopefully in EFL, minimum League 2 Q. Who is the quickest player at the club? A. Me Q. Who is the strongest tackler? A. Christian Frimpong Q. Who is the best in training? A. Lyle Della-Verde & Marcel Barrington Q. What differences have you noticed under Hakan? A. More details in to how we go about the game Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. Play-offs Iron out of the Cup Despite battling back to 2-2 Two late goals in the second half ended Iron's chance of making it into The Emirates FA Cup first round draw on Monday despite a spirited second half display and also from having recovered from being two goals down after only 16 minutes of the game. It was overall a disappointing first half performance from Iron after conceding the opening goal on six minutes when a defensive lapse allowed David Tutonda to fire a low shot past keeper Ben Killip and it went from bad to worse on 16 minutes when the home side's Jack Taylor added a second driving home a rebound past the stranded Killip. Five minutes later Killip pulled of another excellent save as the home side controlled the game but the ball was soon up at the other end and Reece Grant raced through on goal firing in a good shot forcing home keeper Mark Cousins into a great save. Iron weathered the early storm and came back strongly in the latter part of the first and were in urgent need of a goal to keep them in the cup tie. It came too - right on the stroke of half time when a cross from the right caused mayhem in the home side's penalty area and Grant was quick to stab the loose ball home from close range. It was just the tonic the Iron needed and they started the second half much better than the first with Grant again forcing a fine save from Cousins. The deserved equaliser came on 66 minutes from a surging run and cross from the right by Jon Muleba that was brilliantly tucked home with a first time volley from Lyle Della-Verde. It was no more than Iron deserved at this stage and a replay looked on the cards but on 79 minutes the home side grabbed the lead again and it was poor marking in the Iron defence that cost them the goal. Substitute Elliott Johnson stole in unmarked at the far post to head the ball past Killip. It was a bitter blow for the Iron and four minutes from time they gave away a cheap free-kick just outside the area and a poor defensive wall allowed Cheyenne Alexander to drill a low shot into the bottom corner of the Iron net. This fourth goal really settled the tie in the home side's favour but it could have been a different outcome had the Iron taken their earlier chances. Iron certainly missed the strength of the injured Christian Frimpong in front to the back while their cause was not helped with the absence of the club's leading goalscorer: Mo Battamer. Two bright spots for the Iron though was the return from long term injury of Marcel Barrington, coming on as a second half substitute, and the welcome return of central defender Dave Nieskens to the team. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Ellul, Nieskens, Gabriel; Pattison (65 Barrington), Lyons-Foster, James (86 Sagaf), Della-Verde; Grant, Thompson (74 Amaluzor). Unused subs Blackmore, Allen, Ochieng, Bettache. Attendance: 1,057 (156 Braintree supporters) Match Preview - Sat 20 October 2018 F.A. Cup 4th Qualifying Round - Barnet v Braintree T Barnet are currently 12th in the Vanarama National League on 22 points. Their home record this season is P 8 W 3 D 3 L 2 GF 10 GA 10 Pts 12. Their last 4 home league results this season: Won 2-0 v Solihull M, Drew 2-2 v Havant & W, Drew 1-1 v AFC Fylde, Won 1-0 v Maidenhead U. Top scorers this season: Shaquile Coulthirst (1p) & Wes Fonguck - 4, Jack Barham - 2 Braintree T are currently 24th in the Vanarama National League on 7 points. Their away form this season is P 8 W 1 D 3 L 4 GF 5 GA 10 Pts 6. Braintree T last 4 away league results this season: Drew 2-2 v Salford C, Lost 3-0 v AFC Fylde, Won 0-1 v Gateshead, Lost 1-0 v Dagenham & R. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 6 (1p), Reece Grant - 2 So our first foray in to this season's F.A. Cup takes us back to the Hive where we picked up our first point of the season in a 1-1 draw on 7 August. Braintree had a lot of possession in the first half and took the lead in the 35th minute when a cross from Pattison was put into his own net by Jack Taylor. The second half saw the Bees raise their game and substitute Shaq Coulthirst swept home the equaliser just after the hour mark, after good work by former Iron player Dan Sparkes. In the dying seconds of added time Killip preserved a point tipping over a long range drive. Caretaker manager Hakan Hayrettin saw his new charges earn a creditable point at table topping Salford City last week, denied of all 3 points in added time. The Bees meanwhile have been fairly inconsistent in their form. With a larger than usual contingent travelling from Braintree and admission prices reduced, the lure of a decent pay day for advancing in to the first round proper awaits the winners of this clash. Who will come out victorious between old hand Still and his former assistant Hayrettin? Talking to Billy Crook all about finishing 19th DOB: 23/8/90 (28) Born: London Previous clubs (L=Loan): Crystal P, Peterborough U, Bromley (L)Weymouth (L), Histon (L), Tooting & Mitcham, Carshalton, Dulwich H, Met Police, Enfield T Position: Midfield Q. What is your job? A. Teaching Assistant Q. Who do you support? A. Crystal Palace Q. Who has been/is your favourite Palace player? A. Michael Hughes (N. Ireland international) Q. What are you listening to in the car at the moment? A. Original Papa Crook Q. What has been the worst ground you've played at? A. Whitehawk, looks like sheep are going to fall off the hill Q. You were the supporter's player of the season; how did that feel? A. It's one of the most important awards, I like to have a bond with the fans Q. What do you attribute to the turnaround in the teams form to at the end of last season? A. Togetherness, the away trip at Truro Q. Were there any offers for you in the summer? A. Yes, one from same League and one form League above, but nothing concrete Q. In the play-off final, were you nervous? A. A little bit, more excited because of how far we'd come. It wasn't pretty, but nervy and tight Q. What about that penalty miss? A. I knew I wanted to go first, perhaps I was over confident. I've never gone high or even missed the target before Q. You've had to sit out a lengthy ban at the start of the season; has this been difficult for you? A. Yes, it's been pretty much stop start also having my knee injury Q. There's been quite an influx of new players in midfield; does this raise your game? A. Yes, it raises your game. You can get too comfortable, it makes you train harder and makes for healthy competition Q. Is there any player who has left that you would've liked to stay? A. Yes, Marc Okoye, Phil Roberts & Nathan McDonald Q. How do you think the boys have done so far? A. We've competed, we can only get better Q. What differences have you noticed in this higher league? A. The organisation, fitness and teams only need one chance Q. Do you have to prepare differently to play at this level? A. Yes, I prepare the night before a game, the training is more specific to who you're playing against; whereas in VNLS you could stick to what you're good at Q. There are a lot of long away trips, how will you pass the time? A. Doing impressions of players and staff and Roy Hodgson Q. Who is the new club moaner? A. Justin Amaluzor Q. Who will be top scorer? A. Mo Bettamer Q. Where do you think Braintree will finish this season? A. 19th #MANarama National League campaign raises £150,000 for Prostate Cancer UK Re-brand makes history - The #MANarama campaign made history as the first time an English Football League rebranded mid-season and raised £150,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. - In support of the campaign, Vanarama and sister brand Motorama donated £50 to the charity for every van, pickup truck and car it leased. This 'lease a van, save a man' initiative is running throughout September and October. - Vanarama's cheque for £150,000 was presented to Prostate Cancer UK at the flagship game for Non-League Day between FC Halifax and Chesterfield on October 13th. The presentation party included ultra-marathon hero Kevin Webber, who had just completed seven walking marathons in seven days. October 2018 - The ground-breaking #MANarama campaign, which saw the fifth and sixth tiers of English Football make football history through a mid-season re-brand, came to an end on Non-League Day and raised a total of £150,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. Vanarama, the UK's leading commercial vehicle leasing company, powered the fundraising drive by sacrificing its naming rights for the National League, together with a vehicle leasing initiative, 'lease a van save a man', which ran throughout September and October. A cheque for £150,000 was presented at the flagship BT Sport televised game for Non-League day between FC Halifax and Chesterfield. The presentation took place ahead of the game when ultra-marathon hero Kevin Webber, who had just completed seven walking marathons in seven days, was given a guard of honour by both sets of fans. £150,000 was raised by Vanarama in just 43 days by donating £50 for every vehicle it leased from the start of September until Non-League day on October 13th. Within that time a staggering 688 men would have died from prostate cancer, highlighting just how important it is that more men are made aware of the most common cancer in men. Prostate Cancer UK became the National League's first official sponsor for the 2018/19 season and this year's Non-League Day was given added significance by the presence of Webber. Diagnosed with incurable prostate cancer in November 2014 and told he could have as little as two years left to live, the remarkable Webber has raised thousands for the charity in a series of epic endurance events and in the build-up to Non-League Day he walked more than 180 miles from Blyth Spartans to FC Halifax Town. In total, he visited 10 National League clubs, hand-delivering unique captains' armbands to be worn by all MANarama teams on Non-League Day. The bright orange band, which includes the iconic Prostate Cancer UK logo, illustrated the clubs' united stand against the most common cancer in men. Also joining the fight was Sky Sports television pundit and Prostate Cancer UK ambassador Jeff Stelling, who posed with one of the armbands alongside Hartlepool United skipper Andrew Davies ahead of their away clash at Leyton Orient. Andy Alderson, Vanarama CEO and Founder said: "At Vanarama we're thrilled with the amount of money we've been able to raise for Prostate Cancer UK. The MANarama campaign brought together three great organisations with one main goal - to raise awareness and funds in the fight against the most common cancer in men. "We've managed to get to this total because of our wonderful Vanarama customers, and if you've leased a van from us in the last 45 days, you have helped save a man. Hopefully the money donated to Prostate Cancer UK can play a small part in one day beating this truly terrible disease." Angela Culhane, Chief Executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: "We're thrilled with the continued success of Non-League Day, and to pick up a cheque from Vanarama for £150,000 is a wonderful end to this campaign. "In many ways, there was no better person to collect it on our behalf than the extraordinary Kevin Webber. He's no stranger to extreme activities, and by embarking on an epic 10-club excursion in the north of the country he's selflessly spread a powerful and personal message about this deadly disease, utilising the power of football and the communities that bring those clubs to life. "Kevin is an inspiration and we also thank the National League for making us their first ever charity partners and everyone who has embraced the brilliant MANarama campaign that has caught the imagination so much. "There is real momentum building now in the fight against this disease, and the vital next step is to work towards a screening programme to catch more prostate cancers early and save more lives. Thanks to this exciting campaign we can move a step closer to making this a reality." National League Chief Executive Michael Tattersall, who walked alongside Webber in the final day of his challenge, said: "We're delighted at the response of our temporary Ð and historic - rebranding to the MANarama National League over the past six weeks and it's wonderful to see so much money and awareness raised to aid the fight against prostate cancer. "We are proud to have Prostate Cancer UK as our first ever charity partner and look forward to working with them more going forward. "This deadly disease has no boundaries, so it's been incredibly inspiring to see Kevin Webber raise so much awareness within many of our membership. He's a remarkable man doing remarkable things and we will continue to stand alongside him and everyone affected by prostate cancer." Club report crowd problems 'Non-League Day far from a success Braintree Town Football Club have reported serious crowd control issues at the end of the Vanarama National League fixture on Saturday 13 October 2018 between Salford City and Braintree Town to the National League and The Football Association, together with witness statements. Braintree Town supporters were allocated a segregated area to the left of the main stand directors box seating. The total present were approximately 40-60 (forty-sixty) in total. At the end of the game they were directed out of an exit and up a walkway towards their coach. There appears to have been only one apparently inexperienced steward supervising this and the Braintree Town supporters were immediately confronted by a group of home supporters who then set about them. The witnesses state that they were subjected to severe intimidation and physical assault. Chairman Lee Harding was called to the scene after a few minutes and saw three stewards keeping the groups of supporters apart: "I asked to speak to the Safety Officer or a senior steward and was met with an abusive response. I replied that I was the visiting Club chairman and concerned about the well-being of our supporters. "I then spent a few minutes explaining their responsibilities as stewards, especially reminding them of the need to keep segregated groups of supporters apart, even after a game had finished. One man shook his head at me and walked away. However one steward did then apologise for the problems and advised that they had only just started stewarding games there and were still learning. "After ensuring that Braintree supporters were safely back on their coach I then met with the Salford City chairman. I explained to her what I had seen and what I had been told had happened. I advised that I would be contacting both the League and The FA on Monday and would copy my comments to her. "In my experience, Braintree supporters rarely seek confrontation and will have been a little subdued after conceding a late equaliser. The stewarding arrangements for a crowd approaching 3,000 did appear to be lacking and those that were 'in position' did appear to be inexperienced. Those stewards or staff that I spoke with were either confrontational or struggling to meet their basic responsibilities. That this sort of incident should happen on Non-League day, a celebration of the game at our level, is also a matter of regret." Braintree held by leaders Iron have to settle for a point Iron were unlucky not to have returned from Salford on Saturday with all three points as the home side scraped an equaliser in the third minute of added stoppage time at the end. For most of the game they more than matched their big spending hosts, currently top of the league, playing some neat, attacking football and having the most shots at goal in a game this season. Little wonder former England and Manchester United star Gary Neville, now one of the ex-United players now backing Salford, admitted at the final whistle: "You were unlucky and deserved to win, you played some attractive football and were the better side for most of the game and we were lucky to get a draw - really impressive show by your players." Iron caretaker manager Hakan Hayrettin, returning to the club during the week following the departure of Brad Quinton, was also absolutely proud of his players. "They all did really well, played as a unit, worked hard and closed the home side down whenever they could," he said. "Individually and as a team they were brilliant and it was such a disappointment to have come from behind, taking the lead and unluckily draw thanks to their equalising goal in stoppage time." The Iron had a disastrous start to the game conceding a goal after only 31 seconds when a long ball forward through the defence saw Rory Gaffney latch on to it, seemingly with his hand, and lobbing the ball over the advancing Iron keeper Ben Killip. Undeterred by this early setback Iron came back strongly playing some of their most attractive football of the season and twice midway through the half Mo Bettamer went close to equalising and on the half hour a rasping shot from Lyle Della-Verde narrowly missed the target. At the other end Killip twice came to the rescue to his side by pulling off two good saves but Iron were not to be denied their goal when right on half time a right wing was handled in the home area by Inou Touray and Bettamer duly dispatched the spot kick into the net. It was not more than Iron deserved and it was much the same story in the second half when again young Reece Grant, Cameron James and Bettamer all went close with their shots. The home side's wings were clipped on 74 minutes when a great through ball from Grant found Bettamer who beat his marker and drove the ball home past keeper Chris Neal. Three minutes later they could have added a third when a long range shot from Grant, having seen Neal off his line, rattled the crossbar and came back out to be scrambled clear. A goal then would have probably settled the result in Iron's favour and one of their key areas of control through the afternoon was the commanding influence in midfield of James and Christian Frimpong. With the clock ticking and five minutes added on at the end the home side kept pumping the ball into the Iron defence and in third minute of that time the ball unluckily rebounded off Kodi Lyones-Foster straight to the feet of Gaffney who snapped at the chance to drive the ball into the Iron net for an equaliser. It was an injustice for Iron because on the merit of the afternoon's play they deserved to have won the game. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Ellul, Lyons-Foster, Gabriel; Della-Verde, Frimpong (79 Cass), James, Pattison (58 Amaluzar); Bettamer, Grant (74 Allen). Unused subs: Sagaf, Thompson. Referee: Leigh Doughty. Attendance: 2,710. Next up for the Iron is the FA Cup match at Barnet this coming Saturday - see below for free travel to this match. Match Preview - Sat 13 October 2018 Salford C v Braintree T Last season Salford C finished 1st in the Vanarama National League North on 91 points. Their home record last season was: P 21 W 15 D 2 L 4 GF 44 GA 24 Pts 47. They are currently 1st in the Vanarama National League on 33 points. Their home record this season is P 8 W 7 D 1 L 0 GF 16 GA 6 Pts 22. Their last 4 home results this season: Won 3-0 v Hartlepool U, Won 3-1 v Boreham Wood, Won 1-0 v Maidstone U, Won 3-1 v Barrow. Top scorer last season: Jack Redshaw - 17(1p). Top scorers this season: Adam Rooney - 12, Tom Walker - 4, Rory Gaffney & Carl Piergianni - 3. Braintree T are currently 24th in the Vanarama National League on 6 points. Braintree T last 4 away results this season: Lost 3-0 v AFC Fylde, Won 0-1 v Gateshead, Lost 1-0 v Dagenham & R, Drew 1-1 v Boreham Wood. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 4, Reece Grant - 2. Squad news: Elliot Charles has left the club. Table topping Salford C came in to the nation's footballing spotlight on BBC2's 2015 documentary "The Class of 92: Out of Their League". Former Manchester United players, Gary & Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt purchased the club ahead of the 2014/15 season with the aim of reaching the EFL Championship within 15 years. They have managed three promotions in the first four seasons since then, to take their place in Non-League football's top tier. This season they have brought in many ex-Football League players and enticed former Aberdeen striker Adam Rooney on an undisclosed fee to lead the line. Rooney is already well on his way to repaying that fee by being the current top scorer in the League. In contrast the Iron can only look on from afar as they sit in 24th place in the table. After another home defeat last Saturday, Brad parted company with the club. Hakan Hayrettin returns on a caretaker basis for the interim period. This will be a game of David and Goliath proportions against a team unbeaten at home. Talking to Cameron James Play with a smile on your face and enjoy it DOB: 11/2/98 (20) Born: Chelmsford Previous clubs: Colchester U (currently on loan from), Chelmsford C (L) Position: Defender/Midfield Q. Who do you support? A. West Ham U Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Sergio Ramos/John Stones Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. I like a bit of everything, Drake Q. Which social media do you use? A. Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook Q. Do you do any other sport? A. Not now, used to play cricket when I was younger Q. How do you relax away from the game? A. Watching TV series (Game of Thrones) and films Q. What are your strengths/weaknesses? A. Strengths - composure on the ball, short passing. Weaknesses - Going forward and taking players on, scoring goals - I've never scored in a competitive 1st team match. Q. What positions did you play in as a schoolboy? A. I was always a defender or centre midfield Q. Who spotted you/took you to Colchester U A. Marc Tracey - now chief scout at Lincoln C. I was playing for Writtle Minors who were managed by my dad Q. You've been at Colchester U since you were 9, what are you hopes for the next few years? A. I've had a taste of the first team, now need a good loan to show what I can ad to the team and cement a place in the first team Q. What is the best footballing advice you've been given? A. Play with a smile on your face and enjoy it - Dad Q. Did you speak to Diaz Wright about his time here last season? A. Yes we speak a lot. I sat next to him in the dressing room, he told me about his penalties in the play-offs Q. What is your preferred position? A. Used to be a centre half, but too small, so now centre midfield or right back Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Shola Ameobi when he was at Notts County, I was about 18 and he threw me about Q. What is the most frustrating thing in football? A. Losing Q. Who is the best passer at the club? A. Luke Allen & Billy Crook Q. Who is the best tackler at the club? A. I like a tackle and Frimpong Q. Which player makes you laugh? A. Luke Allen Q. Any thoughts on Brad's departure? A. I'm grateful he has given me the chance to play first team football again Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. Top of the lower half of the League, We'll get out of this relegation zone Hak sponsors free coaches to Barnet Free coaches arranged for FA Cup tie Caretaker-Manager Hakan Hayrettin has offered to sponsor FREE supporters travel to our FA Cup tie at Barnet a week on Saturday, 20th October. Thanks to Hakan's kind offer, the Club's coach partners Milestone Coaches will be providing complimentary coaches for travel to and from Barnet. Coaches will leave Cressing Road at 12 noon and will depart from Barnet at 5.30pm for the return journey. Hak said: "It's a big game for us and it'd be great to see as many fans there as possible." Given the expected high demand, places will be restricted to Braintree Town supporters only. If you would like to take advantage of this free travel offer, please e-mail your name and telephone number to the Club at: chairman@braintreetownfc.org.uk. Admission prices for the FA Cup match at Barnet are just: Adults - £10 65+/18-21 - £5 Under 17 - £1 Iron hit four in County Cup Outcome settled by half-time Thanks to an impressive first half display that included a first club hat-trick for young striker Reece Grant helped the Iron comfortably see off visitors Canvey Island in the BBC Essex Senior Cup Third Round at Cressing Road on Tuesday evening. With caretaker manager Hakan Hayretting in charge for his first match the the full strength Iron first team proved too quick and decisive in their play to post only their second win of the season. Grant opened the scoring on seven minutes and added a second 18 minutes before completing his hat-trick on 44 minutes with a penalty after he had been fouled in the box. The other Iron goal on the night came from a superb free-kick by Lyle Della-Verde effectively ending the game as a contest by the interval while the second half saw them continue to out play their visitors with the only surprise for the 145 watching fans is that they failed to add further goals. With regular custodian Ben Killip away on international duties with the England C side the goalkeeper's jersey was taken over for the night by Ashley Jones making his first competitive start for the Iron. Braintree Town: Jones; Muleba, Ellul (Webber), Lyons-Foster, Gabriel; Frimpong, Sogaf, James, Della Verde; Grant (Pattison), Case (Thompson). Unused subs were: Allen & Bettamer. Next up for the Iron is an away National League match at current leaders Salford City on Saturday, kick off 3pm. Hayrettin back as caretaker Hak happy to help out Braintree Town have appointed former manager Hakan Hayrettin as caretaker manager for the immediate future, while they consider the numerous applications for the role going forward. Hakan took over during the Club's relegation season in October 2016 and steered the Club to a best ever Second Round proper appearance in the FA Cup with wins over both Bromley (4-2) and Eastbourne Borough (7-0) before bowing out of the competition at Millwall. In the League, Hakan initially turned the Club's fortunes around, including a memorable 'odd goal in nine' victory at Southport that lifted the Club out of the bottom four, before financial restrictions in the last two months of the season coincided with a poor run that left the Club just one win adrift of safety. Chairman Lee Harding said: "We are grateful to Hakan for agreeing to help us in the short-term. He will take tonight's County Cup tie at home to Canvey and the next couple of games - while we go through the applications for the first team role." Hakan said: "Really happy to be back. I'm looking forward to helping out and we'll see where it goes from there." Barnet away in the FA Cup All National League tie Braintree Town have been drawn away to Barnet in the Fourth Qualifying Round of the FA Cup. Canvey visit on Tuesday County Cup tie action at Cressing Road Braintree Town welcome Isthmian Leaguers Canvey Island to Cressing Road this coming Tuesday evening, 9th October, for an Essex Senior Cup Third Round tie. The game kicks off at 7.45pm and admission has been reduced to £7 adults, £5 concessions and £3 under 18s. Change of Iron Manager Brad Quinton has left the Club Manager Brad Quinton has left the Club by mutual agreement. Brad joined the Club in the summer of 2017 and led the Club to promotion from the National League South in his first season, via the end of season play-offs. Chairman Lee Harding was disappointed: "A sad day for the Club, but we felt it was time for a change. Brad has done well for us as both a player and manager - being involved in three promotions in eleven years - we thank him for his contribution, he knows he will always be welcome at Cressing Road. "We feel we backed Brad as best we could, even allowing him to bring in another new player on Friday. The Board has never interfered in the manager's selection of players, but we must operate within our means." "Even as late as the last twenty minutes on Saturday, I was hoping that we would be able to turn our season around and give ourselves a chance. Yes, the Club could have continued down the path we have for the first fifteen matches, but we were not confident that we would turn our season around. Time will tell if a change brings an improvement in our fortunes, but we felt we at least have to try." Looking ahead, the Club will appoint a caretaker-manager over the next few days and will be having a pre-match meeting with the staff and players at 6.15 on Tuesday evening prior to our County Cup game with Canvey. The Club will advertise for a replacement and will take time in assessing the best candidate for the journey ahead. Harding added: "What the Board are looking for is someone to work with us as we strive to consolidate at this level once again and be part of our ambitious plans for the future." Braintree beaten again Eleventh defeat in fifteen for bottom side Brad Quinton kept his players locked in the dressing room after this latest defeat which kept his side rock bottom of the league. Although it was a slightly better performance from his side than of late and, once again, had they taken one or two of their chances they could have got something out of the game. With new striker Jake Cass making his debut, having signed from Bishop's Stortford in the week, the Iron players looked more determined from the off than in the previous two games. They certainly started the stronger but four reasonably easy chances went begging and they were caught out on 15 minutes when Paul McCallum was left unmarked in the area and he poked the ball into the net to give the visitors the lead. On 25 minutes Iron almost equalised when a Mo Bettamer free-kick fired in from the edge of the area looked to be going in only for keeper Max Stryjeg to get an arm on the ball to deflect it on the crossbar and behind for a corner. Three minutes later new Iron striker Cass raced clear through on goal set to score on his debut only to curl his shot wide of an upright. On 37 minutes the Iron were caught again when the visitors quickly broke out from defence and Chris Zebroski ran on to a through ball, rounded the exposed home keeper Ben Killip to slide it into the empty net. It was an all too familiar story this season where the Iron had pressed hard in their opponents' area but failed to take their chances before then getting caught on the counter attack and finding themselves two goals down at the break. The second half again saw Iron pressing and their persistence was finally rewarded on 72 minutes when Bettamer headed in at the far post, all created from a surging run by Luke Allen who beat his marker to send over a right wing cross. Six minutes later they should have equalised when a Lyle Della-Verde shot was only parried by Stryjek falling straight to the feet of Cass but he was caught wrong-footed and it happened so quickly that a grateful Stryjek somehow managed to grab the ball at the second attempt. Iron pushed hard in the dying moments of the game but again chances went begging and it means another defeat for the beleaguered bottom side. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Ellul, Lyons-Foster, Gabriel; Sogaf, Allen, James (84 Grant), Bettamer; Thompson ( 52 Della-Verde), Cass. Unused subs: Webber, Pattison, Frimpong. Referee: Alan Dale. Attendance 418. Next up for the Iron is a county cup game at home to Canvey Island on Tuesday evening, kick off 7 45pm. Squad Changes for Iron Striker joins - defender leaves Braintree Manager Brad Quinton had a busy Thursday evening. Joining the Club from Isthmian League neighbours Bishop's Stortford is 25-year old striker Jake Cass. Jake has previously played for AFC Hayes, Hendon, Egham and Chalfont St. Peter. Leaving the Club is Dave Nieskens who has returned to The Netherlands. We thank Dave for his time at the Club and wish him well for the future. Match Preview - Saturday 6 October 2018 Braintree T v Eastleigh Last season, Eastleigh finished 14th in the Vanarama National League on 56 points. They are currently 11th on 20 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 7 D 6 L 10 GF 32 GA 38 Pts 27. Their away record this season is: P 7 W 3 D 1 L 3 GF 6 GA 10 Pts 10. Last 4 away results: Won 0-1 v Gateshead, Drew 1-1 v Hartlepool U, Lost 2-0 v Maidenhead U, Lost 4-0 v Harrogate T. Top scorers last season: Chris Zebroski - 10, Ben Williamson & Paul McCallum - 9 Ayo Obileye (now Maidenhead U) - 8. Scorers this season: Paul McCallum - 5(1p), Mark Yeates - 2, Michael Green, Ben Williamson, Alex Wynter & Joshua Hare - 1. Braintree Town are currently 24th on 6 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 7 W 0 D 1 L 6 GF 5 GA 16 Pts 1. Braintree T home 4 results this season: Lost 1-5 v L. Orient, Lost 0-1 v Maidstone U, Lost 0-1 v Wrexham, Lost 0-2 v Maidenhead U. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, Joe Ellul, Lyle Della-Verde & OG - 1. The Spitfires saw changes in the summer when Chairman Stewart Donald bought Sunderland and their former Chief Executive, Mark Jewell has taken over the Chair. They also have a new management team in place with former Barnet players Andy Hessenthaler & Ben Strevens taking the top two roles. Although having a strong squad packed with Football League experience, like the Iron, they are struggling to score goals with eleven so far, the second joint lowest in the League. The last time they scored more than one goal in a game was on 25 August when they beat Dover A 2-1. Braintree's last home encounter with Eastleigh was on 9 August 2016 when the game ended all square at 1-1. Eastleigh went ahead in the 64th minute own goal from Ian Gayle. Seven minutes later, Lee Barnard's speculative daisy cutter from distance somehow squirmed beneath Flitney in the Spitfires' goal. With goals at a premium, I'm going for 1-0. Talking to Mo Sagaf From Somalia to Cressing Road DOB: 12/11/97 (20) Born: Kismayo, Somalia Previous clubs: Ternano Calcio (Italy), Leatherhead, Waltham F, Ipswich T U23, Position: Midfield 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. Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldinho, Marco Veratti, Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. I like everything Q. Which social media do you use? A. Instagram & Twitter Q. Do you have any pre-match superstitions/rituals? A. I like to listen to music to calm myself down Q. What are your strengths/weaknesses? A. Strengths - dribbling, vision, composure. Weakness - need more upper body strength Q. How did your move to Braintree come about? A. Reserve manager asked me to play for them to get me match fit and then he recommended me to the first team Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Andrea Belotti at Palermo (now at Torino) Q. Have you played with or against any of the lads before? A. No Q. You had trials at Ipswich, did you meet Mick McCarthy? A. Yes, he is a nice guy; he got me in to Ipswich and training with the first team. He said this about me - "He's got something special; he's got a really good eye for it. He's a real personality on the pitch. Great kid, I really like him." Q. At what level do you think you can play? A. Premier League Q. Who is the best coach you've worked for? A. Jimmy Bullard at Leatherhead and Brad - he's a good technical coach Q. What is the best footballing advice you've been given? A. Do what I do best and people will see what I am doing - Mick McCarthy Q. You scored a few goals from midfield during your time at Waltham Forest, but appear to be playing deeper here, which do you prefer? A. Midfield is midfield; I can get around the pitch. If I play in an attacking role, I have to be ready to defend. I like to be a box to box player. Q. How do you pass your time on long away trips? A. Watching movies on my phone, listen to music, watch football player clips Q. Who is the best passer at the club? A. Billy Crook & me Q. Who is the best tackler at the club? A. Cameron James Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Pep Guardiola, good coach and how he likes to play football on the ground. Very interesting style Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. We'll stay up. Defensive mistakes costly for Iron Early impetus fades away Iron made the long journey up to the North West to visit AFC Fylde and returned home well beaten by three goals to nil in arguably Braintree's poorest showing of the season so far. After a bright open when Iron spurned a couple of decent half chances, the home side were gifted the lead when Ricky Gabriel's poor defensive clearance fell to the home side and Serhat Tasdemir took full advantage to drill the ball past Ben Killip. Iron looked to have a valid penalty appeal waived away by match referee Peter Gibbons who, moments later, walked off to be replaced by the fourth official. Joe Ellul saw a great chance to level denied by a superb save from home keeper Jay Lynch but, five minutes after the re-start, Iron conceded again when Ricky Gabriel failed to prevent Danny Philliskirk from heading home Arlen Birch's cross. The Lancashire side secured the three points with twenty minutes remaining. This time it was right back Jon Muleba who failed to stop a cross from Joe Cardle on the right that the home side's Danny Rowe gratefully headed home. All in all - a lacklustre performance that saw Iron return home having now conceded eight goals in three hours of football and, after previous progress with the Iron defence, will leave alarm bells ringing at Cressing Road. Braintree Town: Killip, James (Della-Verde 60), Nieskens, Muleba, Ellul, Gabriel, Sagaf, Rowe (Grant 53), Allen, Pattison, Bettamer (Thompson 69). Subs not used: Webber, Clark. Attendance: 1535. Match Preview - Sat 29 September 2018 AFC Fylde v Braintree T Last season AFC Fylde finished 7th in the Vanarama National League last season on 73 points. Their home record last season was: P 23 W 11 D 9 3 7 GF 51 GA 27 Pts 42. They are currently 9th in the Vanarama National League on 22 points. Their home record this season is P 6 W 4 D 4 L 4 GF 12 GA 4 Pts 13. Their last 4 home results this season: Won 3-0 v Aldershot, Lost 0-2 v Salford C, Drew 0-0 v Harrogate T, Won 4-0 v Dover A. Top scorers last season: Danny Rowe - 28, Jack Muldoon (now Harrogate T) & Johnny Smith (whilst on loan from Bristol C) - 10, Sam Finley (now Accrington S) - 7. Top scorers this season: Danny Rowe - 7 (2p), Andrew Bond, Gime Toure, Joseph Cardle - 2 Braintree T are currently 24th in the Vanarama National League on 6 points. Braintree T last 4 away results this season: Won 0-1 v Gateshead, Lost 1-0 v Dagenham & R, Drew 1-1 v Boreham Wood, Lost 1-0 v AFC Barrow. Braintree T scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2 In their inaugural season (2017/18) in the top flight of non-league football, AFC Fylde made the play-offs, where they were beaten 2-1 by Boreham Wood. They were the top scorers in the League with 82 goals, 51 of which came at home. Danny Rowe was joint top scorer in the League and has already made a good start in finding the net again this season. The one time Manchester U trainee, Rowe, joined the club in 2014 having been released by Lincoln C and has now scored over 100 goals for the Coasters. Their manager is Dave Challinor, one time player and long throw expert at Tranmere R. He has been in charge at Fylde since November 2011 overseeing 3 promotions. They broke their transfer record this season to bring in striker Ryan Croasdale for £50000 from Kidderminster H. Braintree meanwhile suffered their heaviest defeat of the season on Tuesday evening to League leaders Leyton Orient. Having competed on equal terms throughout the first 45 minutes, the boys were punished for lapses in the second half. Once again Brad has stated that he wants to bring in new players and a long trip to the north-west coast will be a big challenge for whoever starts against only once beaten Fylde. Talking to Lyle Della Verde about missing out on promotion at Dartford DOB: 9/1/95 (23) Born: Leeds Previous Clubs: Tottenham H (Yth), Southend U (Yth), Fulham, Bristol R (L), Fleetwood T, Crawley T, Welling U, Concord R, Dartford Position: Winger/Midfield Q. What is your job? A. P.E Teacher Q. Who do you support? A. Manchester C Q. Who has been/is your favourite player? A. Lionel Messi Q. Who is your favourite band/singer? A. Drake Q. Where did you holiday in the summer? A. Morocco Q. Which social media do you use? A. Twitter & Instagram Q. Who has been the best coach you have worked with? A. Mark Bonner at Southend U Q. What is the best ground you've played at? A. Anfield in a youth cup match for Southend, we lost 1-0, they had Raheem Sterling in their side Q. Who are the best players you've played with? A. Dominic Iorfa (now at Wolves) Q. Who is the toughest opponent you've come up against? A. Raheem Sterling Q. You played against Braintree three times last season, what was your opinion of them? A. I thought they were very good footballing side Q. Having almost won the league with Dartford, you must have been gutted to not get promoted? A. Can't put it into words, totally gutted to lose out on goal difference - but it worked out okay in the end! Q. How did your move to Braintree come about? A. Through speaking to Errol and the gaffer Q. Who have you played with before in the current Braintree squad? A. Not current squad, but I played alongside Ben Wyatt at Concord R Q. What are your strengths? A. Creativity, shooting, dribbling Q. Who is the most skilful player in the squad? A. Christian Frimpong Q. Who is the worst trainer? A. Christie Pattison Q. Which player takes the longest over their appearance? A. Reece Grant Q. If you could play for any manager, who would it be and why? A. Pep Guardiola - I'd like to play his style of football, he gives his players encouragement, love and care Q. Where will Braintree finish this season? A. 5th - play-offs Iron succumb to blistering O's second half Bumper crowd sees Braintree beaten after levelling A devastating 13 minute spell early in the second half saw league leaders Leyton Orient sweep Iron aside as they netted three quick goals to deservedly win and maintain their unbeaten start to the season. The visitors had taken an eighth minute lead when Josh Koroma was fouled in the area and ex-Colchester United striker Macauley Bonne tucked home the spot kick, but Iron more than held their own in the first half and managed a 23rd minute equaliser through Lyle Della-Verde who poked the ball home at the far post. All the good approach work by Iron was spoilt on 41 minutes when an individual mistake allowed the visitors to retake the lead through Marvin Ekipteta who swivelled on the ball in the area and drove it past exposed keeper Ben Killip. Up to that point the Iron had done more than enough to have gone in at half time level pegging and early in the second half they started well again with some fine forward movement but there was nobody up front to put the ball in the net. The game though changed in favour of the visitors with three quick goals, sadly down to basic individual Iron players' mistakes. First on 57 minutes Koroma raced through to lob the ball over the head of the advancing Killip and then on 64 minutes another mistake allowed the unmarked Bonne at the far post the simplest of tap ins for his second goal. Six minutes later Bonne was on hand again to complete his hat-trick with a deflected goal again through another defensive mistake. Credit to the Iron players, they never gave up right to the end and again moved menacing forward but time and time again balls into the visitors' area were good but there was simply no striker there to get on the end of them. It meant the visitors managed to easily see the game out and retain their lofty position whilst Iron slipped back to the bottom of the league. Iron boss Brad Quinton was philosophical about his side's defeat adding: "We have to be realistic because we were up again the league leaders with full time professionals and some experienced and quality players with such fine pass and movement up and down the field. "My young players are still learning but again we more than held our own in the first half and should have come in on equal terms," he explained. "But again it was down to individual mistakes that cost us the goals in the second half and at this level of football, up against full-timers, you get immediately punished. "I'm disappointed and I don't think the 5-1 scoreline truly reflected on our performance - but the players know they have to do the basics right," he continued. "We also need consistency but we'll dust ourselves down and work hard in training and look forward to Saturday's game at AFC Fylde." He added: "I know we urgently need a strong striker and we are working on that and talking to several clubs with such a player available but of course it has to be right for us and we have to remain realistic over our playing budget. It may mean losing two players to bring in such a new player but, hopefully, we'll have something sorted by the weekend." It's the first time Iron have lost heavily this season but that's no disgrace because the Orient are determined to make it back to the Football League for next season and on this showing they look the strongest championship contenders. Braintree Town: Killip; Clark, Nieskins, Ellul (81 Amaluzar); Muleba, Crook (61 Sogaf), Della-Verde, Rowe (Charlees 81), Gabriel; Bettamer, James. Unused subs: Pattison, Grant. Attendance: 2,574 (away supporters 1,333). Referee: David Rock. Iron are away to AFC Fylde on Saturday, kick off 3pm. Tickets for Leyton Orient Tomorrow Larger than usual crowd expected - supporters advised to arrive early 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 Braintree Town supporters will be available from the Ticket Office on Tuesday, 25th September, from 12 noon - 3pm. To gain entry to the ground on 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. Match Preview - Tues 25 September 2018 Braintree Town v Leyton Orient Last season, Leyton Orient finished 13th in the Vanarama National League on 60 points. They are currently 1st on 26 points. Their away record last season was: P 23 W 8 D 6 L 9 GF 25 GA 30 Pts 30. Their away record this season is: P 6 W 3 D 3 L 0 GF 9 GA 4 Pts 12. Last 4 away results: Won 0-3 v Harrogate T, Drew 1-1 v F C Halifax T, Won 0-1 v Chesterfield, Drew 1-1 v Gateshead. Top scorers last season: Macauley Bonne - 22, Jobi McAnuff - 6, Craig Clay, Josh Koroma & David Mooney - 4. Top scorers this season: Macauley Bonne - 6 (2p), Josh Koroma, Marvin Ekpiteta, Matt Harrold, James Dayton, Jobi McAnuff & OG's - 2. Braintree Town are currently 23rd on 6 points. Braintree's home record this season is: P 6 W 0 D 1 L 5 GF 4 GA 11 Pts 1. Braintree T home 4 results this season: Lost 0-1 v Maidstone U, Lost 0-1 v Wrexham, Lost 0-2 v Maidenhead U, Lost 3-4 v Havant & W. Scorers this season: Mo Bettamer - 3, Reece Grant - 2, Joe Ellul & OG - 1 The O's went top of the Vanarama National League with a stunning victory over previous leaders Harrogate Town at the weekend. They will have been pleased to retain the services of top scorer and former Colchester U forward Macauley Bonne who is once again hot on the goal trail. In fact scoring goals doesn't seem to be a problem for the O's; they have scored in every game so far and have 10 players already off the mark this season. They have in their ranks former Iron loanee George Elokobi and also took on Dan Holman from Cheltenham, before releasing him to join Aldershot T. The Iron meanwhile succumbed to another 1-0 defeat in a frustrating game against Maidstone U on Saturday. With no win at home and the O's unbeaten all season, surely there can only be one outcome - can't there? Penalty decision decides outcome As visitors Maidstone take the three points Frustration for Iron as a controversial penalty decision deep into time added on proved to be the turning point in a fractious match at Cressing Road on Saturday. Having looked the better side for the majority of the game, with both sides struggling to score goals this season, it was the Iron who conceded a penalty in the 95th minute - the decision gifting all three points to the visitors. The crucial goal came when Iron substitute Luke Allen was adjudged to have fouled Blair Turgott, going away from goal and when all that was needed was for him to be shepherded out of the 18-yard area. The former Leyton Orient striker picked himself up and scored from the penalty spot firing the ball low to the left of the diving Iron keeper Ben Killip. In what was a tense game with both sides in the relegation zone and struggling to score goals it had all the hallmarks of a goal-less draw - with neither side helped by some inconsistent decisions. The flow to the whole game was all too frequently disrupted by these decisions and, although it was by no means a dirty game, over thirty fouls interrupted play during an afternoon involving what were mostly innocuous challenges. In a game of few clearcut goal scoring chances it was Iron who had the more efforts on target but failed to take them with Reece and Mohamed Bettamer going close in the first half while at the other end Turgott forced Killip into two fine saves. As the second half progressed it was the home side that looked to be gaining the upper hand with again Reece, Bettamer and Justin Amaluzar all seeing half chances going begging and or not hitting the target. Iron's big problem remains scoring goals and again this match only reiterated the need for a strong front man who can also hold up the ball and create a more physical presence in the opposition box. Just when a draw looked likely the visitors snatched a late winner leaving the Iron in the relegation zone and they now face another home game this Tuesday against new league leaders Leyton Orient when they come to Cressing Road for a 7.45pm kick off. It left a totally frustrated Iron boss Brad Quinton not wanting to talk about the game leaving his assistant manager Barry Bolton to face the media. Barry said: "I am speechless - how we didn't get something from the game is incredible and to lose again so deep into added on time is an insult and added misery for everyone involved. "We were very disappointed by what in my view was a soft penalty while, up at the other end, Reece Grant was so blatantly brought down in the box - yet play was simply waved play on," he said. "The inconsistency over the drop ball incidents in the game, which confused both sets of players at the time, was amazing. "There's always a fine line as we know but it's still down to the players at the end of the day to convert the many moves when we went forward and we should have scored more than once before conceding the late penalty," he added. Braintree Town: Killip; Muleba, Ellul, Nieskins, Gabriel; Sogaf (84 Allen), Crook, James; Amaluzar, Bettamer; Grant (80 Della-Verde). Subs not used: Pattison, Clark, Rowe. Attendance: 807. Referee: Josh Smith. 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. 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 O'Donnell's 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. Quinton adds striker 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. Match Preview - Sat 8 September 2018 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. Talking to Mo Bettamer 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 Penalty decisions pivotal at Dagenham 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. Match Preview - Tues 4 September 2018 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 & Ben secure an Iron point 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 Match Preview - Sat 1 September 2018 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! Talking to: Ben Killip 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 Brad freshens up Iron squad 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 Barrow's 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. Iron 12th Man Group Delivers 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! Quinton promises changes 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. Second half rally goes unrewarded 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. Bank Holiday Schedule 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. Solihull at home live on BT Sport 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 Late goals see points frittered away 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. Braintree T v Havant & Waterlooville 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. Talking to Olu Durojaiye 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 Back from the dead against Hartlepool 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. Iron push title favourites all the way 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 Match Preview - Sat 11 August 2018 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 campaign off and running 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. Match Preview - Tues 7 August 2018 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. Iron second best after good start 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). Match Preview - Sat 4 August 2018 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. Iron & Clarets draw a blank 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. Iron secure single goal win 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. Two more games for Iron 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). Four-goal Iron win in Suffolk Sudbury beaten 4-2 Braintree Town recorded their third pre-season victory with a 4-2 victory at Bostik Division One (North) side AFC Sudbury on Tuesday evening. Iron trailed 1-0 early on, but stepped up to lead 4-1 before conceding a late second. The goals came from Mohamed Bettamer (2), Dan Thompson & Reece Grant Next up for Iron is another friendly match at home to Cambridge United, this coming Friday evening, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Iron win second friendly Tajbakhsh hits the target Braintree Town recorded their second pre-season victory with a battling two-goal victory over a strong Ipswich Town side at Cressing Road on Saturday - a goal in both halves from Aryan Tajbakhsh saw Iron prevail. The first came after 13 minutes when Tajbakhsh found space on the edge of the Championship side's defence to steer the ball low past Town keeper Dean Gerken's left. Iron continued to create chances, but had to wait until twenty minutes into the second half before doubling their advantage. Ipswich Town's Martyn Waghorn caught Marcel Barrington 25 yards out to concede a free-kick, which Tajbakhsh duly lifted over the wall past the stranded Gerken, just inside the right upright. Braintree Town: Nathan McDonald, Jon Muleba, Ben Wyatt, Olu Durjaiye, Josh Hill, Michael Clark, Marcel Barrington, Billy Crook, Dan Thompson, Aryan Tajbakhsh, Christie Pattison. Substitutes: Reece Grant, Irintl Rapai, Edwin Mensah, Joe Ellul, Mahrez Bettache, Christian Frimpong, Charley Barker. Next up for Iron is another friendly match at Sudbury, this coming Tuesday evening, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Ipswich match arrangements Braintree welcome Portman Road side Iron welcome Championship neighbours Ipswich Town to Cressing Road on Saturday, 14th July, with kick-off at 3pm. The Portman Road side have indicated that they will be bringing a strong side to test Braintree, newly promoted back to non-League football's top flight! Admission for the match will be just £10 for adults and only £5 for OAPs and under 18s. Tickets for the match will not be available in advance and all spectators can pay at the appropriate turnstile (1-4) on arrival. A colour programme will be available - just £2. The clubhouse will be open before, during and after the match with a range of Molson Coors finest ales and lagers. Unfortunately spectators will NOT be allowed to bring drinks into the stadium. Hot food and drink, plus ices and cool drinks will also be on sale. No segregation will be in place. Iron taught football lesson Colchester score five without reply Braintree were given a thorough reality test against Football League visitors Colchester United at Cressing Road on Tuesday evening where clearly higher fitness levels and being sharper to the ball from full-time training showed its benefit compared to the home side's part-timers who at times struggled to get into the game. It left Iron manager Brad Quinton disappointed with his side's performance adding: "We have some individuals who are obviously not up to the fitness levels required and we shall start putting that right in the next training session. "We were sloppy at times with our passing and individual mistakes caused unnecessary problems," he continued. "Some players were too slow to react when losing possession so we still have a lot to work on. "It was still a good chance though to have a look at several new players and also playing them in different positions and with different formations which is what these games are all about," he added. "We'll be working hard in several areas before our next game on Saturday against Ipswich Town." Iron went behind on 11 minutes when Frank Nouble whipped in a quick shot giving keeper Nathan McDonald no chance and the only surprise was that the U's didn't score again before the interval having dominated play and had several decent goal scoring chances. The start of the second second half saw both sides making several changes and it was U's who scored their second on 52 minutes through substitute Mikeal Mandaron and three minutes former Iron loanee Sam Szmodics added a third with the home defence all at sea. Another substitute, Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe, added a fourth goal for the visitors who wrapped up the scoring on 87 minutes when Szmodics set up Mandaron for his second goal. Although conceding four second half goals, Iron did play better and did cause the visiting defence a few problems but there's clearly training ground work still to be done by Quinton before they kick off their National League campaign. The game against Ipswich Town on Saturday kicks off at 3pm. Friendlies start with 4-0 win Two in each half at Newmarket Iron opened up their pre-season friendlies with an impressive and comfortable win against Thurlow Nunn Premier Division side Newmarket Town at a blisteringly hot Cricket Field Road on Saturday. It left Iron manager Brad Quinton pleased with his opening friendly game adding: "It's good for the players to get their first game under their belts. We knew it would be hot but I felt the players coped well as they have in training so far. "There's a long way to go before the real kick off and we have some tougher friendlies coming up starting with Colchester United coming to Cressing Road on Tuesday evening (kick off 7.45pm)," he said. "We've several new players on board plus a number of trialists. These games are ideal for us to have a look at them and all of them will get a chance to show what they can do over the next month." First half goals from regular midfielder Luke Allen (a penalty on nine minutes) and new signing Lyle Delle-Verde (ex-Dartford) on 16 minutes gave the Iron a two-goal lead at the interval. Second half strikes from young Reece Grant on 69 minutes and a debut Iron goal on 85 minutes from Albanian-born Irnti Rapai, who was playing in the Greek Premier league last season, completed the scoring. But for some heroic saves from home keeper Alex Archer the Iron would have won by a far bigger margin. Other players making their Iron debut were Aryan Tajbakhsh (ex-Crawley Town), Olu DuroJaiye (ex Welling Utd). Chris Pattison (ex Carshalton), Charley Barker and Edwin Mensah. Another new siging central defender Michael Clark (20), ex-Leyton Orient, made an impressive debut in defence alongside Iron regular Josh Hill while full-backs Jon Muleba and Ben Wyatt completed a solid back line. Regular goalkeeper Nathan McDonald played the first half giving way to young Harry Aldridge for the second half. New Reserve Team Manager appointed Iron welcome Anton Smith Braintree Town have appointed Anton Smith as their new Reserve Team Manager with immediate effect. Anton has experience with Waltham Forest, Leatherhead and Reading Football Clubs and will guide the Iron Reserve side in next season's Thurlow-Nunn League Division One South. Anton is keen to hit the ground running and will be organising his first training session on Monday evening at the ground, starting at 7.30pm. All of last season's reserve team players are invited to attend. If you are interested in attending a trial for our reserve side next season, please contact Anton on anton_Ls@hotmail.co.uk. IRON START AT HOME FC Halifax Town visit for opener Braintree Town resume their place in non-League football's top tier on Saturday 4th August with an opening day home Vanarama National League match against FC Halifax Town. Having been relegated from the National League in 2016, Halifax bounced straight back from the Vanarama North via the play-offs in 2017. Last season The Shaymen finished 16th of the 24, in their first season back in the top flight. Two tough away trips against former Football League sides follow. On Tuesday, 7th August, Iron make the short journey to Harrow to play Barnet and then on the second Saturday of the season, 11th August, visit Chesterfield. Iron fans may remember Chesterfield visiting Cressing Road for a FA Cup First Round tie in 2014 when the Spireites edged the game 6-0! Christmas sees Braintree playing Ebbsfleet United with Boxing Day in Kent and New Year's Day in Essex. In between Iron visit Alan Devonshire's Maidenhead United on Saturday, 29th December. Easter is late next year and Braintree's penultimate game is at home to Dagenham & Redbridge on Easter Monday, 22nd April before a last game of the season at Leyton Orient on Saturday, 27th April. In the FA Cup, Braintree are once again exempt until the Fourth and final qualifying round, not entering the competition until Saturday, 20th October, with the draw provisionally set for lunchtime on Monday, 8th October. In the FA Trophy, Braintree are once again exempt until the First Round Proper, not entering the competition until Saturday, 15th December, with the draw provisionally set for lunchtime on Monday, 26th November. Saturday at Newmarket now 1pm Kick-off time changed to accommodate England at 3pm! The kick-off time for Saturday's opening pre-season friendly at Newmarket has been bright forward to 1pm. This was agreed with the Suffolk club to accommodate England's World Cup Quarter Final against Sweden which kicks off at 3pm. Club disappointed with FA decision Billy Crook found guilty despite no corroborative evidence At our Vanarama South match against Hemel Hempstead Town on 20 January 2018, former player Scott Shulton made allegations against player Billy Crook to the match referee Wayne Cartmel and these were forwarded to the Football Association for their attention. At the time, Club Secretary Tom Woodley spoke with the referee after the game and was advised by him that neither he nor his assistants had heard the alleged remark. However, as a result of the allegations, Crook was charged with misconduct by The FA, who alleged that he had used abusive and/or insulting words towards Shulton in the fixture. It was further alleged that this breach of rule was an 'Aggravated Breach' as it included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or nationality. The allegations were denied by Crook, who asked for a personal Commission hearing, which took place at Wembley on 12 June, where he was represented by First Team Coach Barry Bolton. During the Commission, the match referee confirmed that he had not heard the alleged comment and neither had the other match officials. As a result, he felt that cautions would not add any value and was happy to continue without any sanctions. Additionally, it was stated that the alleged incident was not captured by video footage. In his statement Shulton admitted that he and Crook had argued during the game and then went face to face with each other. Shulton then admitted making statements to Crook 'to deliberately wind him up'. Shulton then claimed that Crook abused him and then admitted grabbing Crook by the throat. The Commission then considered Crook's interview with The FA in March when Crook claimed that Shulton dragged his foot down the back of his Achilles calf and then, after that - which the camera didn't get, Shulton grabbed Crook by the throat. When asked about the alleged abuse, Crook confirmed that he 'Definitely wouldn't say that. Never.' During Crook's subsequent evidence, he described having a good footballing relationship with Shulton and described him as a player who would try and 'rile a few players'. He said that at the time of the alleged incident, he felt a late challenge and he kicked out, before he was grabbed by the throat. Crook added 'that's when the allegation came out'. He was 100% sure that he had not abused Shulton, as he was not somebody that caused confrontation or reacted. Crook then stated that he's been playing football since being on a scholarship at Crystal Palace, up to the age of 27 in non-League and he has never had any dissent record. He has only ever had one red card in his career, which was for a mis-timed tackle. In making their findings, the Commission stated that the burden of proof was on The FA to prove the charge. It stated that the applicable standard of proof was the balance of probability, which meant that the Commission had to be satisfied an event occurred if the Commission considers that, on the evidence, the occurrence of the event was more likely than not. The Commission accepted there was conflict between the versions of events as Crook denied saying the comments as alleged. However, some significant aspects of the evidence were not disputed. Crook conceded that he reacted angrily to the late tackle against him by Shulton, and that he had retaliated by kicking out, something he did not usually do. The Commission concluded that, on the balance of probability, they decided that Crook had used insulting and/or abusive words towards Shulton. In setting out sanctions, the Commission took into account Crook's exemplary disciplinary record, but imposed a five-match suspension, a £300 fine and a requirements to complete an online Football Association education course. Having heard the evidence of both players, we note that there was no corroborative evidence from any of: The FA's match officials; the other 20 players; or any of the 432 crowd that day. Both the Club and player are disappointed that the Commission's findings were merely on the balance of probability and not on the grounds of reasonable doubt. As a result, both the Club and player are now considering further action and may make another statement in due course. Cheap Beer for World Cup match £2 a pint & chips! Another World Cup special has been lined up for this coming Tuesday evening, 3rd July, when Gareth's boys take on Columbia in the last sixteen of the World Cup. The Iron Clubhouse will be open from 6pm and the last 16 World Cup game will be screened live at 7pm. Selected ales and lagers will be reduced to just £2.00 from 6.30pm-end of game! We also hope to have some of the infamous Iron T-Bar chips available during the evening. Come on England. Extra friendly added Cambridge visit on a Friday night Braintree Town have added an extra pre-season friendly match as Iron prepare for their return to non-League football's top flight. The Club will entertain Sky Bet League Two neighbours Cambridge United to Cressing Road on Friday, 20th July, with kick-off at 7.30pm. Brad signs five more Two new faces plus three more from last season sign up Iron manager Brad Quinton continued to make progress with his squad yesterday, signing five more players. Joining the Club are defender Michael Clark from Leyton Orient and winger Lyle Della-Verde from Dartford, while three more of last season's promotion-winning side have also signed. Michael Clark will be 21 in September and joins Braintree from Leyton Orient. He captained the Leyton Orient youth team during the 2015-16 campaign, winning the South East and West Youth Merit League. In his first season as a pro, Clark was sent on loan to East Thurrock United at the start of the 2016-17 season, making 33 appearances in all competitions and scoring four goals. He was recalled from his loan and drafted into the Leyton Orient first team squad in February 2017 and made his debut as a second-half substitute in the 1-0 league defeat at home to Cheltenham Town in February 2017. He finished the season with nine first team appearances for The O's. Last season Clark made three more appearances for The O's and also had a second loan spell at East Thurrock in December 2017, making seven appearances. Lyle Della-Verde is a 23-year old winger who joins Iron after impressing at Dartford last season. After playing for Tottenham Hotspur and Southend United, Lyle signed for Fulham in 2011, turning professional on his 17th birthday in January 2012. He made 8 appearances for Bristol Robvers on loan during 2014/15. He signed for Fleetwood Town in July 2015, where he made 8 appearances before joining Crawley Town in February 2016, where he made a further 12 appearances. 2016/17 saw him made 17 appearances for Welling United and then 22 for Concord Rangers before switching to Dartford last summer, where he made 34 appearances for the Vanarama South runners-up. Brad has also re-signed Billy Crook, Luke Allen and Mahrez Bettache. New signing & Squad update Brad adds to squad and agrees terms with five Braintree Town manager Brad Quinton has been hard at work adding to and securing the best of his squad. He has agreed terms with signed 25-year old defender/midfielder Olu Durojaiye. Olu, a Nigerian player who was called up for his country's Under-20 Development Squad, played in the Vanarama South for Welling United last season. He started his career as a youngster for Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City, before joining Scottish sides Falkirk and Brechin City. He has also played for non-league clubs Enfield Town, Hayes & Yeading United, Hungerford Town and Haringey Borough. His time at Tottenham saw him rise through the ranks to the Under-18s as a striker. He then trialled with Cheltenham Town, Brentford and Oxford United before moving to Norwich City in August 2012, where he signed a professional contract. In July 2013, Durojaiye moved north of the border to Scottish Championship club Falkirk, spending two seasons at the club before finishing the 2014-15 campaign on loan at Scottish League One side Brechin City. After spells at Enfield, Hayes & Yeading and Haringey Borough, he signed for Welling United in August 2017. Brad also advised that he has agreed terms with Nathan McDonald, Billy Crook, Marcel Barrington, Luke Allen and Dan Thompson. Discussions continue with other players and new faces and Brad hopes to be in a position to update further next week. Reserve Team Manager vacancy nurturing the best of the youngsters Braintree Town FC have a vacancy for the post of Reserve Team Manager, who will be playing in next season's Thurlow-Nunn League Division One (South). If you are interested in managing the up and coming Iron stars of tomorrow and playing a vital role in nurturing the best of the youngsters from the affiliated Braintree Town Youth FC into First team players in the years to come, then send your CV to Club Chairman Lee Harding at braintreeTFC@aol.com. Cheap Beer & World Cup Weekender! plus promotion celebrations, Bar-B-Q & chips! A special weekend of promotion celebrations, cheap beer, Bar-B-Q, World Cup football and chips awaits! On Saturday we have a work party in the morning with all willing victims entitled to one of the Chairman's free drinks! The Iron Clubhouse opens at 12 noon and the World Cup continues on the TV, with the 1pm game being Belgium v Tunisia from England's group, followed by South Korea v Mexico at 4pm and Germany v Sweden at 7pm. The lads will be back for pre-season training with a double morning & afternoon session planned! We also have a Promotion Special Bar-B-Q planned for 2.30-3pm, under the guidance of David 'Chef du Jour' Green & Matt 'I'll give it a go' Hawtin. And just to make that football and Bar-B-Q slip down a little easier, selected ales and lagers will be reduced to just £2.50 from 2pm-6pm! Moving on to Sunday and the build up to England's game starts with the Iron Clubhouse open at 12 noon and selected ales and lagers will be reduced to just £2.00 from 12 noon-3pm! We also hope to have some of the infamous Iron T-Bar chips available for the game! Come on England (and Sweden!) Pre-season schedule complete Colchester to visit in July Iron have completed their pre-season schedule with the visit of Sky Bet League Two neighbours Colchester United to Cressing Road on Tuesday, 10th July, with kick-off at 7.45pm. The Club will also be sending a squad side to visit Stanway Rovers on Wednesday, 11 July, subject to re-instatement work being completed on the Stanway pitch. Kick-off for this match will be 7.45pm. Brad starts work on 2018/19 All players invited back plus Bar-B-Q in June Braintree Town manager Brad Quinton has taken up the option to extend the playing contracts of both Jon Muleba and Christian Frimpong - and has also invited his entire squad back for pre-season training - as he starts work on building a competitive squad for next season, the Club's seventh year in non-League football's top tier since 2011. Brad said: "The boys were there for me when I needed them last season and they all deserve a chance to play in the level above because each and everyone of them have earned it." Bouncebackability To celebrate the Club's promotion, there will be a Summer Bar-B-Q on Saturday, 23 June when we hope to see the team management and full first team squad back at Cressing Road for a celebration. While we're all celebrating our promotion, you also be able to watch three of the World Cup matches on the big screens in the clubhouse: Belgium v Tunisia (from England's group) at 1pm South Korea Republic v Mexico at 4pm and Germany v Sweden at 7pm. Ticket prices announced for 2018/19 Most prices frozen at 2016 levels The Club have agreed their matchday and season tickets pricing for next season. Following the Club's swift return to non-League football's top tier, prices have risen, but most have been frozen at the level when we were last members of the National League two years ago! As with last season, both adult and concession season tickets allow supporters to sit or stand and receive five games free of charge, while an under 18 season tickets offer an incredible fifteen games free! A new initiative for the coming campaign is the introduction of a new family ticket for an adult and under 18 combined together. The family ticket offer sees the younger supporter provided with entry for just £21 - less than a pound a game! If you wish to add additional adults or under 18s as part of the family group, speak to Lee Harding. As usual, 'early bird' discounts are offered for season tickets purchased on or before Saturday 2 June 2018. To get yours, the Club office will be open: Monday-Friday from 10.30am-4pm. The Iron Clubhouse will be open Saturday and Sunday 12-5pm and Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 7pm-11pm. Just bring your form and payment with you! Any queries to 01376 330976/345617. Supporters can pay for their season tickets by card, cash or cheque and the season ticket application form can be downloaded here: SEASON TICKET APPLICATION FORM. Pre-season schedule announced Iron arrange attractive set of friendlies Braintree Town have started work on their pre-season campaign as they return for a seventh season in non-League football's top flight after a year away. Iron will start their pre-season build up with a trip to Newmarket Town and their superb 3G pitch at Cricket Field Road on Saturday, 7th July, with kick-off at 3pm. It will also give us an opportunity to meet up with former Iron favourite Micky Shinn who is now Newmarket Town's Manager. Next for Iron will see the visit of Sky Bet League Two side Colchester United on Tuesday, 10th July, kick-off 7.45pm, followed by Championship side Ipswich Town to Braintree on Saturday, 14th July, with kick-off at 3pm. The Portman Road club have confirmed that they will be bringing the first team squad for the match. On Tuesday evening, 17th July, Braintree will visit Bostick League side AFC Sudbury, with kick-off at King's Marsh being 7.45pm. Iron will then welcome Sky Bet League Two side Cambridge United on Friday, 20th July, kick-off 7.30pm. Next up for Iron is a trip to Bostick League side Dereham Town on Saturday 21st July, kick-off at Aldiss Park will be 3pm. On Tuesday evening, 24th July, we make the short journey to last season's Thurlow-Nunn League champions and near neighbours Coggeshall Town. Iron manager will take the full first team squad to Coggeshall - newly promoted to the Bostick League. Kick-off at West Street will be 7.45pm. Iron will complete their pre-season schedule with a another local game, at home to Chelmsford City, on Saturday 28th July with kick-off at 3pm. To assist both clubs, it has been agreed to share the gate receipts of this match on a 50:50 cup-tie basis with The Clarets. Iron back at first attempt Three successive away victories set up top flight return Iron are back in non League football's top flight just twelve months after relegation after a fabulous team performance led to a nail-biting penalty shootout which they dramatically won 4-3 at The Beveree on Sunday. After 120 minutes of normal time and extra-time it all came down to a penalty shootout and although Billy Crook missed the first one for the Iron it was excellent spot kicks from Dan Thompson, Marcel Barrington, Josh Hill and finally Diaz Wright that seal victory. It led to a joyous pitch invasion by the huge group of Iron fans in the 3,127 crowd with champagne flowing as the team received their trophy and left manager Brad Quinton almost speechless. "I'm over the moon to have won promotion at my first attempt with the club and it's down to the truly magnificent performance of the lads in these three play-off games," he declared. "I never thought in my wildest dreams that we could do it particularly with having to play all our three play-off games away from home. "We had a game plan the boys stuck to it and all of them worked their socks off each giving well over 100 per cent on the day," he continued. "We want to enjoy the moment together and take it all in - I just can't really believe it's happened and the fans again today have been fantastic with their support as they have all season." The Iron, keeping the same starting line-up as they have in the two previous play-off matches, saw a tense early start to the game after the kick-off was delayed 10 minutes to allow queuing fans to get in the ground. Disappointingly too they went behind after only eight minutes when Max Kretzschmar was left unmarked out on the right wing and he strode inside to slid the ball past keeper Nathan McDonald. Undeterred by this setback Iron gradually came more into the came as the first half progressed with more possession and more chances to score with their best chance coming on 29 minutes when Jon Muleba did well to work his way down the right flank sending in a curling cross that young Reece Grant fired straight at home keeper Seny Dieng. But Iron's expected equaliser came right on half time in the 45th minute when Thompson showed his strength and prowess brushing off home defenders down the left wing before clipping the ball into the home area where Grant slipped his marker to head home. A draw was probably a good reflection of the first half play but the second half definitely saw Iron more in the ascendancy and creating more chances going forward and, on 70 minutes, Hill almost scored with a shot on the turn which was closely followed by a Barrington shot that was charged down at the last moment. On 82 minutes Iron should have taken the lead when keeper Dieng rushed out of his goal as the ball was pushed through by Iron but Grant was quicker to the ball, squaring it to Thompson. With the goal at his mercy and Dieng out of position Thompson slid the ball towards the empty net only for full-back Ben Wynter to hooked it away off the goal line at the last moment. With the heat taking its toll on all players and both sides becoming edgy in their approach play the game looked to be heading for a draw and a penalty shootout. In extra-time play was a little frenetic at times from both sides as they tried hard to push for a winner but in the end the score remained 1-1. With the resultant penalty shootout it was Iron who conquered with the impressive young midfielder Wright firing home the Iron's fifth penalty after Brendan Kierman had missed the home side's fourth spot kick, giving the Iron victory 4-3. Braintree Town: McDonald; Muleba, Gabriel, Hill, Okoye; Wright, Allen (63 Michael-Percil), Crook, Barrington; Grant (105 Wyatt), Thompson. Unused subs: Aldridge, Frimpong, Bettache. Referee: Tom Reeves. Attendance 3127. Promotion Final Preview Sunday, May 13, 3pm - Hampton & Richmond Borough v Braintree Town Hampton & RB finished 4th in the Vanarama National League South on 72 points. Their home record this season is: P 21 W 9 D 11 L 1 GF 30 GA 16 Pts 38. Last 4 home results: Won 3-1 v Truro C (P-O), Drew 1-1 v Truro C., Drew 1-1 v Gloucester C, Drew 1-1 v Welling, Drew 1-1 v Braintree T. Top scorers this season: Max Kretzschmar - 17 (5p), Bradley Hudson-Odoi - 10 (1p), Charlie Wassmer - 8. Braintree Town finished 6th the Vanarama National League South on 69 points. Braintree's away record this season is: P 21 W 8 D 7 L 6 GF 33 GA 32 Pts 31. Braintree T last 4 away games: Won 0-1 v Dartford (P-O), Drew 0-0 v Hemel Hempstead T (P-O), Won 1-2 v Truro C, Won 0-1v Hungerford T. Top Braintree Town Scorers: Billy Crook - 11 (7p), Luke Allen & Reece Grant - 7, Marcel Barrington - 6. This seasons meetings: 19 August 2017 Braintree T 2 (Roberts, Crook (pen)) Hampton & RB 1 & 24 March 2018 Hampton & RB 1 Braintree T 1 (Barrington). Both meetings this season featured sending offs. In our home fixture it was Borough's Joe Cook who was dismissed after denying Wynter a goal scoring opportunity. When the Iron went to the Beveree Stadium in March, it was the Iron's turn to finish the game 2 players short. Billy Crook was the first to leave the playing field for a raised foot challenge in the 31st minute. Despite being a man down, Braintree took the lead with 12 minutes remaining. Luke Allen led a Braintree counter attack running from outside his own area well into the home team's half, before releasing the ball down the left to Thompson, who put in a low cross that was met on the run by Barrington. Borough equalised 3 minutes later following an attack down their left flank. Two Braintree players were unable to prevent a low cross reaching the 6 yard box where the ball somehow evaded McDonald and was stabbed home from close range by Wynter. The Iron were reduced to 9 men in added time when Luke Allen picked up his second yellow of the afternoon. Unlike our previous two play-off matches, we now face a team we have beaten this season. Our hosts were the lowest scoring team in the top 7 with 58 goals. Defensively, their record of defeats was only matched by champions Havant with six losses. They drew more games than any other VNLS team (18) and were second, again behind Havant, in goals conceded (37). In the play-offs, they faced Truro C for the second week running, eventually overcoming them in extra time. A penalty from top-scorer Kretzschmar was enough to beat our neighbours Chelmsford C who had themselves been reduced to 10 men after Barnum-Bobb had handled on the goal line in the semi-final play-off. Hopefully we'll see a game where all 22 players remain on the pitch and the in form Iron give a good account of themselves as they battle to return the Club to the National League after one season's absence. Promotion Final Update Sunday, May 13, 3pm - Hampton & Richmond Borough v Braintree Town Promotion Final Tickets currently only available on line at: www.buytickets.at/hrbfc. For those fans unable to use this facility, we can order on line at the Club on your behalf if you call in and see us with your payment card and provide name and date of birth of all people you want to purchase tickets for. The Club office and Club shop will be open all this week from: Wednesday 9th - 10.30 am - 4.30 pm Thursday 10th - 10.30 am - 8.30pm (Club house open 7.30 till late ) Friday 11th - 10.30am - 4.30 pm Saturday 12th - 10.30 am - 4.30 pm Also the club shop will be open the same times, with an end of season sale and many items at half price - so pop along and grab an orange bargain! Promotion Final - Ticket arrangements Sunday, May 13, 3pm - Hampton & Richmond Borough v Braintree Town The following arrangements have been implemented for next Sunday's match. It has been decided that the match will be ALL TICKET and tickets can only be ordered online via the following link: www.buytickets.at/hrbfc. Tickets should be printed out and presented at the turnstiles on the day. Admission will be: £12 adult, £7 concessions, £3 u16s & u5 free. Please note: There will be a £1.25 booking fee for tickets purchased online. Disabled access can be obtained by contacting the club in advance, on enquiries@hamptonfc.net. Carers will be admitted free where required. Overflow parking will be available on a first-come-first-served basis, so come early to avoid disappointment. Stewards will direct drivers to the location. We understand that some rail disruption is likely next Sunday due to engineering work and Iron supporters may wish to contact the Independent Supporters Club on 07950 614908 for news on coaches which, we understand, will depart for Hampton at 11am on Sunday. Iron reach Promotion Final Hampton away on Sunday Braintree Town reached the Vanarama South Promotion Final with a single-goal victory at Dartford on Saturday. Having drawn at home and away in the league against the Kent club it was always going to be a tight game. While Iron had much of the possession during a nervy first forty-five minutes, the home side had arguably the better chances. Nathan McDonald had to be at his best to deny Ronnie Vint who saw his shot superbly saved by Braintree's number one after twenty minutes. Moments later a teasing cross from Diaz Wright on the left just evaded the unmarked Billy Crook at the far post. On the half hour Crook tried his luck, but failed to hit the target, while Alfie Pavey really should have done better with his header at the back post just before the break. Six minutes after the re-start Reece Grant unlocked the Dartford defence to break through one on one with home keeper Berti Sckotterl, but Grant was denied by a well timed tackle outside the box. Substitute Roman Michael-Percil replaced Grant on the hour and could have opened the scoring on 70 minutes when he broke through the Dartford defence, only to see his snap shot well blocked by Sckotterl. But a minute later the goal finally came. Jon Muleba broke forward on the right before cutting inside. He fed the ball into the Dartford penalty area where a number of players tried to shoot or block before the ball fell to Crook who beat Sckotterl from close range. Wright could have added a second with his effort from all of 25 yards with ten minutes to go, but it was well gathered by Sckotterl. The home side thought they had a good claim for a penalty four minutes from time after a cross into the box struck Luke Allen, but appeals were waived away by the referee. In the four minutes of time added on Dartford's Ryan Hayes tried his luck at the back post, but his effort sailed high and wide into the crowd. At the final whistle celebrations followed and Iron now travel to fourth-placed Hampton & Richmond Borough for the Promotion Final next Sunday, 13th May, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree: McDonald, Muleba, Gabriel, Hill, Okoye, Wright, Allen (Frimpong 90+3), Crook, Grant (Michael-Percil 60), Thompson, Barrington (Wyatt 83). Un-used subs: Aldridge, Bettache. Attendance 1704. Match Preview - Sun 6th May 2018 Dartford v Braintree T - Vanarama National League Play-Off Semi-Final Dartford finished 2nd in the Vanarama National League South on 86 points. Their home record this season is: P 21 W 15 D 3 L 3 GF 51 GA 20 Pts 48. Last 4 home results: Won 2-0 v Bath C, Won 3-1 v Weston-Super-Mare, Won 1-0 v Hampton & RB, Won 3-2 v Hemel Hempstead T. Top scorers this season: Alfie Pavey - 22, Elliot Bradbrook - 16(4p), Andy Pugh - 13. Braintree Town finished 6th the Vanarama National League South on 69 points. Braintree's away record this season is: P 21 W 8 D 7 L 6 GF 33 GA 32 Pts 31. Braintree T last 4 away games: Drew 0-0 v Hemel Hempstead T, Won 1-2 v Truro C, Won 0-1v Hungerford T, Lost 2-1 v St Albans C. Top Braintree Town Scorers: Billy Crook- 10 (7p), Luke Allen & Reece Grant - 7, Marcel Barrington - 6. This seasons meetings: 8 August 2017 Braintree T 2 (Oliyide, Crook (p)) Dartford 2 & 23 December 2017 Dartford 1 Braintree T 1 (Barrington) Both meetings this season have been tightly contested affairs. Hosting Dartford in our first home game of the campaign, the Iron took a two-nil lead before the Darts rallied to share the points. In the return fixture just before Christmas, it was the home side that took the lead on 17 minutes, Pugh cut in from the left wing, evading several attempted tackles, before driving home low from a tight angle. McDonald was to deny the hosts from extending their lead with two good saves, one at point blank range with his feet. The equaliser came just before half time, Oliyide played in Gabriel down the left side of the penalty box, the full back drove on to the by-line and cut back a low cross which was met with a powerful low shot from Barrington at the far post. Despite the Iron controlling most of the second period, it ended all square. Dartford were pipped for the title on goal difference by Havant & Waterlooville, this despite racking up nine successive victories on their run-in. Darts were the League's top scorers finding the back of the net on 81 occasions. The Iron progressed to the semi-finals of the play-offs after an energy sapping 120 minutes football on a soft pitch; followed by a nerve jangling penalty shoot-out. Much elation (and relief) followed and now we go to what will arguably be our hardest test so far. Good luck to Brad and all his staff and players in keeping the dream alive. Penalty save sets up Braintree McDonald saves Shulton penalty in shoot out Braintree Town are through to the semi-finals of this season's Vanarama National League South promotion play-offs after a dramatic finale to last night's goal-less draw at Hemel Hempstead. There was little to separate the two sides in an engaging end-to-end tie that lasted more than two hours. The winner was ultimately decided by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark and, after Marcel Barrington and Luke Allen had converted their two kicks, it was former Iron player Scott Shulton that gave Iron fans in the 1165 crowd hope when his spot-kick was superbly saved by keeper Nathan McDonald. Although our third kick was also unsuccessful, Hemel then missed their last two kicks which, combined with a successful third for Iron saw Iron through. The game itself swung from end to end. McDonald used his legs well to deny Moyo after ten minutes, before Thompson's long-range effort zipped just wide of the target eight minutes later. Just after the half hour Sanchez-Watt opened up the Iron defence, but saw his effort found the side-netting. After the break Iron upped their game and both Reece Grant and Barrington testing the home defence. But Hemel were also dangerous on the break with McDonald reacting quickly to deny Moyo's shot. Wright broke through the home defence mid-way through the second half and was crudely brought down by Parkes who was fortunate to escape with just a caution. Late on saw both sides push forward with a dipping effort from Josh Hill just looping over the crossbar, but neither side could break the deadlock - so the game entered extra-time. Moyo saw his header come close five minutes into the extra thirty for the home side, before Marcel set up Allen who's shot needed a superb save from home keeper Walker to prevent the first goal. Iron looked to have a valid penalty appeal four minutes into the second fifteen of extra time when he was pulled down from behind, but the match referee has having none of it. As penalties loomed, Thompson and Rick Gabriel combined to score but the effort was ruled out for offside. Braintree: McDonald, Muleba, Gabriel, Hill, Okoye, Wright, Allen, Crook (Wyatt 70), Grant, Thompson (Michael-Percil 80), Barrington. Un-used suns: Aldridge, Bettache, Frimpong. Referee: Will Finney. Attendance: 1165. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama National League South promotion play-off semi-final away at Dartford this coming Sunday, 6th May, with kick-off at 3pm. Admission prices for this match are as follows: Adults £14, Concessions £7, Youth £5, Junior £2, Under 5s Free. In-form Iron secure Play-off berth Victory over Gloucester makes it 16 points from 18 In-form Iron are into the play-offs thanks to a scintillating second half performance in which they dominated scoring three goals and could easily have scored more as in the end they overwhelmed their visitors. A delighted Quinton, back at the Club as manager where he played over 500 first team games, praised his players for listening to his half time talk and why they changed their formation to help secure the win. "I knew we had done well in that first period but we need to stretch the game more, use the width of the pitch and be more positive in our play, particularly in the opposition's half," he said. "Once we scored I knew then that, with confidence and keeping the pressure on, we could go on to score more. I'm also pleased we kept another clean sheet. "It's a fantastic season for us bearing in mind when I arrived last summer we had no players and no team," he explained. "But, despite one or two setbacks en route, all the players have worked hard and we've achieved our goal of getting into the play-offs - which we are all eagerly looking forward to." Iron broke the deadlock on 50 minutes when a left wing cross from Ricky Gabriel was headed back across the area by Dan Thompson for the predatory Reece Grant who was quickest to the ball to head home. The all important second goal came on 75 minutes from a right wing corner. Pulled back to where defender Josh Hill, five yards outside the area, turned and hit the ball cleanly with pace into the corner of the net with an unstoppable drive. A late candidate for 'goal of the season'. The home side kept pressing and several chances went begging but a minute into stoppage time it was the youngster Grant who followed up pressure on the Gloucester keeper to steer his low shot past keeper Andy Hannah into the bottom left corner. First half chances had been few and between with Iron unlucky not to take a 31st minute lead when Grant broke clear only to see his low shot come back off the post whilst, a minute later up at the other end, the visitors' Joe Parker thought he had scored netting with a shot on the run, but was denied by the assistant's offside flag. The three points left Braintree Town in a final sixth position and sets up a play-off qualifier at Hemel Hempstead Town on Wednesday, 2nd May, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Iron will go into the game confident having taken sixteen points from their last possible eighteen. Braintree Town: (4-4-2) McDonald; Muleba (86 Frimpong), Gabriel, Hill, Okoye; Wright, Crook, Allen (70 Bettache), Wyatt (84 Michael Percil); Thompson, Grant. Unused subs: Barrington, Aldridge. Attendance: 616. Referee: Jack Packham.

FORTHCOMING GAMES Saturday 17 November 2018, 12.30 SOLIHULL MOORS (HOME) Saturday 24 November 2018, 3pm Harrogate Town (Away) Tuesday 27 November 2018, 7.45 SUTTON UNITED (HOME) Saturday 1 December 2018, 3pm BARROW (HOME) HOW WE STAND