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Get your discounted tickets now! The Iron Clubhouse will be open on Thursday evenings, from 7.30pm - 9pm, and on Saturday afternoons, from 12 noon - 4pm, throughout May for supporters wishing to drop off their season ticket application forms and payment before the Saturday, 31st May deadline for discounted prices. To reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by the Saturday, 31st May deadline will remain unchanged at: Adults - £360.00, OAPs - £270.00, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the prices for next season: "All Iron season tickets remain as last year and offer some tremendous savings. The Adult ticket offers almost 25% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and Under 12s are almost nearly 70% off the cost of the 23 matches!" Pre-season schedule starts to take place We have already started work on our pre-season fixtures for next season. Our first confirmed fixture is on Tuesday, 15th July when we entertain League Two side Cambridge United, followed by the visit of a Fulham XI on Friday, 25th July. We then welcome League Two side Colchester United on Tuesday, 29th July. The National League 2025/2026 season starts on Saturday, 9th August. Rochdale scalp added to top three victims Braintree Town secured their National League status for another year and at the same time added Rochdale to the top three sides in the division as those beaten by the Club at home this season. After a quiet and nervous opening half hour, Iron grew into the game and took the lead moments before the interval. Ryan Clampin fed Kyrell Lisbie from the left. His mis-kick fell to Tom Blackwell who saw his effort fall back to Lisbie who then steered the ball past Rochdale keeper Killian Barrett from close range for 1-0. It was 2-0 ten minutes after the re-start. Chay Cooper's cross from the right was miskicked by Rochdale centre-half Jack Kingdon. The ball fell kindly for Lisbie who cut the ball back inside before sliding the ball inside the near upright to double the advantage. Braintree controlled the remainder of the game to secure the three points that saw them move above both Boston and Yeovil to finish seventeenth in the final table. Season ticket and online prices unchanged for another year The Club have agreed upon their matchday and season ticket prices for the 2025/26 campaign. As the Club moves towards becoming a cashless stadium, ALL matchday prices for tickets bought online remain unchanged. The only increase is to matchday admission for adults that choose to pay by cash or card - which will increase to £22.00, to cover the increasing costs associated with banking cash. However the matchday prices paid by cash for OAPs (at £15.00), Under 18s (at £10.00) and Under 12s (at £5.00) remain unchanged. To reward our long-standing season ticket holders, ALL season tickets for next season purchased by Saturday, 31st May will remain unchanged at: Adults - £360.00, OAPs - £270.00, Under 18s - £70 and Under 12s - £40. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the prices for next season: "We are confident that our matchday prices remain competitive and offer value for money. To that, all Iron season tickets offer some tremendous savings. The Adult ticket offers almost 25% off the cost of a 23-game campaign, OAP season tickets 22% off, while Under 18s and Under 12s are almost nearly 70% off the cost of 23 matches! "Like every other business we are facing increases to our costs. From National Insurance to energy and water, our overheads as a business continue to climb. We are also looking to provide our Manager Steve Pitt with a competitive playing budget while striving to put in place a programme of maintenance at our stadium, with works planned to our stadium toilet facilities a priority!" Season ticket application forms will be available from the Clubhouse bar and completed forms together with payments should be deposited at the Clubhouse bar - who will also be able to take any card payments. Results elsewhere see Iron close in on safety Braintree journeyed up to Yorkshire to visit a FC Halifax Town side chasing an end of season play-off place and came home beaten by the only goal - however they have all but secured their place in the National League next season. In what might be deemed a 100/1 shot - Braintree, three points clear of 21st placed Wealdstone, would need to lose at home to Rochdale on Saturday, while Wealdstone defeat FC Halifax Town to move level on points with Braintree and at the same time improve their goal difference sufficiently to overcome a twelve goal shortfall. As to the game - with a side ravaged by injuries, suspensions and loan recalls, Iron were always going to be up against it, but played their part in an end to end match. After 22 minutes Halifax's Daniel Nkrumah broke through the Braintree defence but with just keeper Hery Gray to beat saw his effort deflected for a corner. Eleven minutes later both Kyrell Lisbie and Tom Blackwell broke through the defence but both saw their efforts blocked by a frantic home defence. Eighteen minutes after the restart, Florent Hoti tried his luck from 25 yards but saw his effort zip wide of the right upright. On 71 minutes a sustained period of pressure saw Lisbie and Matt Robinson both have chances before Chay Cooper saw his effort dip over the crossbar. The deciding goal came seven minutes from time. A cross from the right from Tarima was headed by Adam Senior. Gray stopped the first effort but Senior followed up to steer the rebound home. So a disappointing outcome for Iron, but their fortunes were rescued by the result from Southend later in the afternoon. Last game of the season for Iron is a Vanarama League fixture at home to Rochdale on May Bank Holiday Monday, 5th May, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's final Vanarama League match at home to Rochdale on Bank Holiday Monday, 5th May are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Lisbie 'goal' ruled out for offside Iron entertained Dagenham & Redbridge on Easter Monday and shared the points from a goal-less draw. Tom Blackwell was first to show for Iron - trying his luck from just outside the box after just ten minutes, but it was comfortably dealt with by the D&R keeper. Kyrell Lisbie had the ball in the back of the D&R net on 57 minutes. Released by Blackwell, Lisbie swept the ball home but it was ruled out for offside. Alan Judge let fly after 82 minutes, but his shot dipped just wide of the left upright. Neither side were able to break the deadlock and the point left Iron still searching for the one point to secure their Vanarama League status. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League fixture at FC Halifax Town on Saturday, 26th April, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree had to defend, but also had their chances Braintree Town shared a goal-less draw with hosts Southend United on Good Friday. Iron keeper Henry Gray made a couple of fine saves from Macaulay Bonne and Leon Parillon. Braintree's best opportunity before the half time interval came when John Akinde's header was cleared off the line, while Tom Blackwell was unable to turn Kyrell Lisbie's mishit shot into the net. The Roots Hall club started the second forty-five minutes on the front foot, with Gus Scott-Morriss denied by Gray before Parillon hit the woodwork. At the other end, Nathan Ralph cleared off the line as Blackwell and Lisbie went close in a goalmouth scramble. Late on Chay Cooper fired over from a good position in front of goal, before Iron had a contentious free kick turned down in the eighth minute of stoppage time when Lisbie raced through the Southend defence with just keeper Nick Hayes to beat, only to be brought down by Ben Goodliffe. The point leaves Braintree five points clear of safety with three matches to play. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League fixture at home on Easter Monday, 21st April, when Braintree Town entertain Dagenham & Redbridge, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Dagenham & Redbridge on Monday, 21st April are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are recommended to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Braintree let initiative slip away to lose 4-2 Braintree visited the Midlands on Saturday to play Tamworth and came home beaten by four goals to two. Iron were ahead after just seven minutes when Ryan Clampin's left-wing cross was headed home at the far post by Jermaine Francis. But Tamworth levelled things up after seventeen minutes later when Jordan Ponticelli's ball over the top was despatched by Beck-Ray Enoru. Worse followed for Iron as the home side were ahead when Ponticelli cut the ball back for Enoru to add a second three minutes later. Braintree responded positively and John Akinde levelled from the spot in the 25th minute after Kyrell Lisbie was brought down. Tom McGlinchey then put Tamworth ahead again in stoppage time as an end to end first half came to a conclusion. The start of the second half was delayed by a medical emergency in the crowd and the home side had the better of the game after the re-start. Tamworth had a fourth ruled our for an infringement midway through the second 45 before Daniel Creaney made sure of the points in stoppage time when he converted Kai Williams' cross. Next up for Iron are two more Vanarama League fixtures. On Good Friday, 18th April, we travel to Southend United, with kick-off at 3pm. Our next home match is three days later on Easter Monday, 21st April, when Braintree Town entertain Dagenham & Redbridge, with kick-off also at 3pm. Braintree recover from going behind to win 2-1 Braintree Town entertained leaders Barnet on Saturday and were good value for their 2-1 victory. Kyreece Lisbie had the first chance of the game on 18 minutes when he broke forward through the Barnet defence and keeper Owen Evans had to be at his best to deny Iron taking the lead. Iron settled well but it was Barnet who broke the deadlock against the run of play when Ryan Glover released Callum Stead to break through and steer his shot past the exposed Henry Gray for 1-0. Braintree were level within five minutes. Matt Robinson released Kyrell Lisbie just inside the left of the Barnet 18-yard box and, after taking a touch, he steered the ball inside the far right upright. After the break Iron controlled possession for much of the second 45 minutes before finally getting a deserved second two minutes from time. Jon Akinde broke from his own half and outmanoeuvred the attentions of Joe Grimwood three times before the Barnet defender pulled him down as he broke into the Barnet six-yard box. Grimwood as last man not playing the ball was dismissed for his challenge. Jon Akinde then stepped up to steer his spot kick into the side netting as Iron ended Barnet's long unbeaten run. Next up for Iron is another Vanarama League match at Tamworth this coming Saturday 12th April, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Barnet on Saturday, 5th April are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Braintree miss out on Final appearance after penalty shoot out defeat Braintree Town are out of this season's National League Cup after a dramatic penalty shoot out saw them eliminated in Tuesday evening's semi-final. Kyreece Lisbie had the ball in the Sutton net after 21 minutes but his effort was ruled out for offside. Lisbie was involved in the thick of the action on 37 minutes when he was cut down in the visitors 18 yard box, but no foul was awarded. Iron continued to probe and Ryan Clampin fired just over a minute before the break. After the interval Iron were soon on the front foot and, two minutes in, Tom Blackwell broke on the left before cutting inside only to see his shot just miss the far upright. Sutton too had their chances - hitting the post after 50 minutes and they also rattled the crossbar on the hour. Braintree dominated the later stages but could not break down the resolute Sutton defence as the game finished goal-less. This set up the dramatic penalty shoot out. Both sides converted their first four and then saw the next two each saved or missed before Vaz secured the final spot for the visitors with Sutton's seventh kick. Good luck to the Surrey club with their final against Leeds United! Next up for Iron is a return to Vanarama League action and the visit of leaders Barnet to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium this coming Saturday 5th April, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's National League Cup semi-final at home to Sutton United on Tuesday, 1st April are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders are reminded that as this game is a cup tie, their season tickets are not valid for this match. If segregation is in force for this game, visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 6pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Iron travelled around the M25 to visit Woking and came home beaten by two goals to one Iron travelled around the M25 to visit Woking and came home beaten by two goals to one. Harry Beautyman put the Surrey side ahead on 24 minutes when he converted a penalty after keeper Lennon Maclorg clashed with Woking's Ashford. Two minutes after the re-start, Woking doubled their advantage when a Beautyman free-kick was glanced home by Akinola to beat Maclorg. Braintree gave themselves a lifeline with 20 minutes remaining when Ryan Clampin's cross from the left was headed home by Aiden Francis Clark at the far post. The remainder of the match saw Iron camped in the Woking half but unable to break down the at times desperate defending of the home side who held on for the three points. Next up for Iron is a National League Cup Semi-Final at home to Sutton United this coming Tuesday evening 1st April, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Braintree welcomed championship hopefuls York City on Saturday and were good value for their odd goal in three victory Braintree welcomed championship hopefuls York City on Saturday and were good value for their odd goal in three victory. Iron had the better of the opening half and Chay Cooper tested visiting keeper Male after just three minutes. After 18 minutes Marley Marshall Miranda saw his drive from all of 25 yards zip just wide of the target. The opener came on 24 minutes, Ryan Clampin released John Akinde through on goal and the Iron forward took a touch before drilling the ball into the bottom right corner. York levelled things up on 34 minutes. A corner from Batty on the left was only partially cleared to Josh Stones who volleyed the free ball past Henry Gray. After the break Iron continued to push forward and mid-way through the second 45, a Kyreece Lisbie cross from the right found Jermaine Francis unmarked at the far post and he guided the ball in from close range. York were always a threat and could have grabbed a second equaliser four minutes from time - but Josh Stones saw his effort from the edge of the box drop just wide of Henry Gray's right upright. The three points saw Iron move up to fifteenth in the table. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at Woking this coming Saturday 29th March, with kick-off at 3pm. Blistering second half performance sees Iron turn around half time deficit Iron made the long mid-week trip up the A1 to visit Gateshead on Tuesday evening and came home with three points after a great second hall display saw them turn around a goal down, but win the game 3-1. Braintree started the match brightly working hard to close down their hosts, but conceded after 34 minutes. A corner on the left from Booty was met at the back post by a fine header from Dan Jones to give Gateshead the lead. Braintree levelled on 57 minutes through Chay Cooper before John Akinde netted his spot kick on 70 minutes and Kyreece Lisbie added a third three minutes later. The Iron leveller came from a swift Kyrell Lisbie break on the left. 25 yards out he swept the ball across the home defence. Brother Tyreece dummied with a clever step over and the ball found Cooper on the right who took a touch before tucking the ball in the far left upright. With 20 minutes left, a Cooper corner on the left was lifted to the far post where Kyrell Lisbie was scythed down and Akinde tucked the resultant spot kick home. It was 3-1 three minutes later. Iron broke forward in numbers. Akinde released the ball to Cooper on the left and he crossed into the home six yard box for the incoming Tyreece Lisbie to steer the ball into an unguarded net at the far post. Iron controlled the rest of the game comfortably to take the points. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to championship hopefuls York City this coming Saturday 22nd March, with kick-off at 3pm. Former Southend defender has his contract cancelled after nine months without making a single competitive appearance for the Club Defender Louis Lomas has been released from his contract at Braintree, nine months after signing for the Club in June 2024. Hopes were high for Louis when he signed for us last summer, even though he was unable to play for his previous club Southend United during the entire 2023/24 season. But a continuance of his injury problems saw him unable to make a single competitive appearance for Iron, despite our best efforts to support his rehabilitation plus 28-day loans at both Slough Town and Hornchurch. Chairman Lee Harding was disappointed with the outcome: "We've really tried to give Louis an opportunity. We were led to believe that he would be able to recover quickly to play for us. But it's been very expensive for our Club to support a player for nine months without him able to play even just one competitive game for us. It's now been almost two years since he's played for either Southend or us. Let's hope he can overcome his injury problems and play again at some point in the future." Lacklustre performance sees Braintree spurn points Iron entertained Boston United on Saturday and struggled to assert themselves for much of the match. Ironically Ryan Clampin had the best of the early chances - breaking forward on the left flank after ten minutes, the Iron left back saw his shot zip just wide of the far upright. Boston punished that miss on five minutes later. A speculative overhead kick on the right saw Marley Marshall wrong-footed by Keaton Ward who surged into the Iron penalty area, where he lifted the ball over Henry Gray before side-footing the ball into an empty net. Jacob Hazel could have doubled the visitors advantage halfway through the second half, but his shot from the edge of the box just missed the far right upright. With nine minutes remaining a deep cross from Tom Blackwell wide of the left almost got the better of the visiting keeper, as he back-peddled to touch the ball over the crossbar. In the last five minutes Tony Weston broke through the Iron defence but saw his shot blocked by Henry Gray on the edge of the six yard box. But Braintree couldn't break down the visitors well organised defence and Boston were good value for their win. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at Gateshead this coming Tuesday 18th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Braintree prevail against Sussex club Braintree Town reached the semi finals of the National League Cup after an enthralling odd goal in three victory at home to Brighton & Hove Albion's youngsters on Tuesday evening. Jermaine Francis gave Iron the best possible start - racing through the visitors defence before sliding the ball past Brighton keeper McGill in the opening 30 seconds. The visitors were always a threat with their possession-based game and levelled two minutes after the interval through Bashir. But Iron were soon back in front as Emmanuel Okunowo set up Kyreece Lisbie on the left who steered his effort past McGill from close range on 53 minutes. Brighton pushed forward late on in search of a second equaliser, but the Braintree defence held firm to secure their place in the last four of the competition. News on our semi-final opposition when we have it. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to Boston United this coming Saturday 15th March, with kick-off at 3pm. Gray saves set up Braintree win Iron made the long journey up to AFC Fylde on Saturday and came back with another valuable three points from a two-goal victory that lifted the side above Woking into sixteenth place. But the foundation of the victory was three excellent saves from keeper Henry Gray to keep Braintree all square before Braintree took a 36th minute lead through Jermaine Francis. Aiden Francis-Clarke lifted a fine ball into the left of the home 18-yard box from deep on the right and Francis then steered an exquisite shot inside the far right upright to give his side the lead. Moments later Marley Miranda tried his luck from the edge of the home penalty area but saw his volley bounce over having rattled the crossbar. Miranda hit the woodwork again twelve minutes into the second half, but the second soon came - on the hour. An inch-perfect dipping free kick from Tom Blackwell found Kyrell Lisbie at the far post and his downward header skidded past home keeper Winterbottom at the far post. Ten minutes from time Fylde's Jon Ustabasi was sent off for a crude challenge on James Vennings. In time added on Obi hit the bar for the home side but Iron were good value for the victory in the end. Next up for Iron is a switch to National League Cup action and a quarter final tie at home to Brighton & Hove Albion's youngsters this coming Tuesday, 11th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Maidenhead United and Braintree share the points in 3-3 draw Braintree visited Maidenhead United on Tuesday and led and trailed before sharing the spoils from an entertaining 3-3 draw. Matt Robinson's fourth minute near post header from Tom Blackwell's corner gave Iron an early lead before a second from Kyrell Lisbie, breaking through the home defence before steering the ball under the keeper on 24 minutes. But the home side pulled a goal back two minutes before the interval through Reece Smith, who steered the ball past Henry Gray. More drama was to follow in first half added time when John Akinde was dismissed for a second caution. After the re-start Maidenhead pushed forward in search of the equaliser - which came mid-way through the second 45 minutes when Shawn McCoulsky bundled the ball home from close range. Tristan Abrahams' 72nd minute penalty put Maidenhead ahead, only for Jermaine Francis to steer the ball home on 78 minutes from another Blackwell corner to secure a point. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at AFC Fylde this coming Saturday 8th March, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Boston United on Saturday, 15th March are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Iron to entertain Sussex club on 11 March Braintree Town have been drawn at home to Brighton & Hove Albion in the quarter finals of the National League Cup, with this match set to be played on Tuesday 11th March, kick-off 7.45pm. Admission for this match has been reduced to just £10 adults and £5 concessions, payable at turnstiles 1-4 on the day. Early goal the difference Braintree Town returned to winning ways on Saturday with a single-goal victory over high-flying Eastleigh at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium. It completed a notable double for Iron who had already secured three points from the 2-1 victory in Southanpton in November. The decider came early, in the third minute, as Kyrell Lisbie escaped the Eastleigh right back to break towards goal on the left. He set up John Akinde on the edge of the six yard box, who saw his shot charged down, but it fell to the waiting Marley Miranda who tucked his half volley home off the underside of the crossbar from the edge of the visitors 18 yard box. Moments later John Akinde crossed for Jermaine Francis who set up Matt Robinson. The Iron midfielder tested Eastleigh keeper Joe McDonell who was at full stretch to tip the shot over the bar. After 14 minutes Lisbie broke through the Eastlight defence and raced to the edge of the visitors defence but saw his snapshot blocked by the feet of the McDonell. After the break, Iron continued to search for the second goal and Tom Blackwell's 49th minute corner was headed just wide by John Akinde and he and Lisbie almost combined on 64 minutes to open up the Eastleigh defence before desperate defending saw the ball cleared. Late on Ryan Clampin was dismissed for two cautions and Iron had to defend but coped with what Eastleigh threw at them to secure the points. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at Maidenhead United this coming Tuesday 4th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. The Club has a vacancy for a part-time volunteer Welfare Officer to help design, implement and administer the club's Safeguarding system to meet National League and FA requirements. You will need to work closely with the Club's Board and Safety Officer. Administration skills and experience of safeguarding would be extremely useful, although the club will assist to get the required background knowledge for the position. The role provides an opportunity to make a significant contribution in helping the club discharge its safeguarding responsibilities as mandated by the National League. For an informal discussion about the role please contact the Chairman at: chairman@braintreetownfc.org.uk. What you'll get out of it: - Sense of tangible support for our club; - Contribution to the safeguarding and protection of young people and vulnerable adults; - A chance to develop your skills; and - Potential of new training and qualifications. Who will I be responsible to? - The Board's Safeguarding Champion. Who will I be responsible for? - All club members under 18 or classed as vulnerable (including players, staff, officials, volunteers, spectators). What background knowledge will I need to acquire? - Initially, you'll need to research the National League and FA Child Welfare Policies & Procedures, and the role of other statutory and voluntary agencies; - The procedure for recording and processing any reported concerns; and - Awareness of equalities issues and child protection. You will also need: - Basic administration skills; - Ability to maintain records; - Ability to provide basic guidance; and - Good communication skills. What you will do: - Assist the club to fulfil its responsibilities to safeguard children and vulnerable adults; - Assist the club to implement the Safeguarding Policy (including training) which will include the National League and FA reporting and recording procedures; - Be the first point of contact for anyone who has concerns about the welfare, poor practice, or potential abuse of young and / or vulnerable people; - Maintain contact details for local social services, police and the Area Child Protection Committee; and - Ensure confidentiality is maintained. How much time will it take? - Approximately 2-3 hours per week, though this will depend on the nature of your sports club/organisation. All square at Gander Green Lane Braintree Town made the journey to Surrey to visit Sutton United and returned home with a point following a 1-1 draw. The first half was a cagey affair with neither side able to take the initiative. That all changed after the interval when a long ball from home keeper Jack Sims found Josh Coley who lifted the ball over the exposed Henry Gray after 54 minutes. But Iron responded positively and levelled three minutes later. John Akinde split the Sutton defence and rounded Sims before slotting the ball into an empty net. Late on Akinde saw a header dip just wide of the post as Iron pushed for a winner, but had to settle for a point from the 1-1 draw. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to Eastleigh this coming Saturday 1st March, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Eastleigh on Saturday, 1st March are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 6pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Date now confirmed Braintree Town's National League Quarter Final at home to Brighton & Hove Albion has been confirmed for Tuesday, 11th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Visitors net two late on to take the points Braintree Town slipped to a disappointing odd goal in three home defeat against Wealdstone on Wednesday evening. Iron took the lead in the sixth minute. A neat interchange on the right was only partially cleared by the Wealdstone defence and fell to Matt Robinson who drove his effort into the bottom left corner from the edge of the visitors 18-yard area. Wealdstone levelled after 72 minutes when a free-kick wide on the left was launched towards Henry Gray's far right upright and the Braintree keeper caught the ball only to fall back into the goal and take the ball with him to concede the equaliser. The winner came five minutes later. A neat interchange on the edge of the box opened up the Braintree for Josh Grant to steer the ball past Gray. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at Sutton United this coming Saturday 22nd February, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Wealdstone on Wednesday, 19th February are now available online. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Segregation will be in force for this game and visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online as above and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 6pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Provisional date subject to change Braintree Town's National League Quarter Final at home to Brighton & Hove Albion has been provisionally set for Tuesday, 11th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Confirmation to follow. Iron try again in mid-March Braintree Town's Vanarama League fixture at Gateshead - originally scheduled for Saturday, 11th January and then Tuesday, 11th February, but twice postponed because of an unfair pitch - has been re-arranged again. The two teams will now try again at the International Stadium on Tuesday, 18th March, with kick-off at 7.45pm. All over and done with by half time Braintree Town moved five points clear of the relegation places with a professional two goal demolition of a Forest Green Rovers side that had lost only two of their 30 previous league games. A neat one-two between Kyrell Lisbie and Jamal Fyfield opened up the Nailsworth side's defence after just ten minutes with Lisbie steering the ball past Rovers keeper Mrozek from a tight angle on the left. It was 2-0 on the half hour when Matt Robinson released Tom Blackwell on the right and Tom took a couple of touches before steering his fine drive just inside the far left upright. It could have been three early in the second half as first Jermaine Francis's shot hit the visitors crossbar and the follow up from Jon Akinde was frantically cleared off the line by the Rovers defence. The visitors had a couple of chances late on as they threw caution to the wind. On 65 Quigley saw his shot dip over the bar before Henry Gray made a fine save to deny Sercombe twelve minutes later. But Iron managed the rest of the game comfortably to secure the three points. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to Wealdstone this Wednesday 19th February, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Forest Green Rovers on Saturday, 15th February are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in force, visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Iron to entertain Sussex club by 5 March Braintree Town have been drawn at home to Brighton & Hove Albion in the quarter finals of the National League Cup, with this match set to be played by Wednesday 5th March. More news on the agreed date when we have it. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to Forest Green Rovers this Saturday 15th February, with kick-off at 3pm. Are you the National League's Number One Fan? Freebets.com is asking supporters to show their love for their club this Valentines Day, as the search begins for the National League's number one fan. Forget flowers and chocolates, true devotion is standing on the terraces in the pouring rain, traveling miles for an away game, and never missing a matchday. The hunt is on for the National League's number one fan, and YOUR help is needed to find them. Tell your stories about the lengths you (or someone you know) has gone, to support the team they love and be in with a chance of winning a fantastic prize. Whether it's volunteering within the club, attending every game home and away, even painting your house in club colours, this is your time to shine and make yourselves heard. The winner will receive a VIP football hospitality package including accommodation and travel costs (up to the value of £1,000), a signed shirt from your chosen National League club, but most importantly the coveted title of 'The National League's Number One Fan' How to Enter If you think that you or someone you know has what it takes to be crowned the winner, then here's how to get involved: 1. Tell your story - Share why you or your nominee deserves the title of the most devoted National League football fan in the entry form on here. 2. Show your love - Tag @freebets_com"> on X, in photos or videos that prove your unwavering support with the hashtag #NationalLeagueLover. This could be pictures or videos of you on a match day, wearing your shirt with pride, or travelling to an away game for example. 3. Get your club involved - The more your fellow fans back you, what better way to prove you are the National League's number one fan! Freebets.com brand ambassador and former Premier League and Non-League striker Clinton Morrison will be on the judging panel. The deadline to enter is Friday, March 14th at 10pm GMT - so spread the love and share with your fellow fans to help celebrate the heart and soul of National League football, and find the League's number one fan! Entry link: https://www.freebets.com/news/number-one-fan/ Must be 18+ to enter. Terms and Conditions Apply. Please be GambleAware.  International Stadium pitch is unfit Braintree's journey up the A1 today has been postponed as the Gateshead pitch is waterlogged. News on a new date when we have it. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League match at home to Forest Green Rovers this Saturday 15th February, with kick-off at 3pm. Cracking Cooper strike a late consolation Braintree journeyed up the M6 to Altrincham on Saturday and came home beaten by three goals to one. Iron were two-down by the half hour mark and it was a deficit too big to overcome despite a spirited Iron performance. Newby put the Cheshire side ahead after just nine minutes netting from close range and Linney doubled Altrincham's advantage from the penalty spot on the half hour after Cooper fouled in the home 18 yard box. Two down at the break Iron took the game to their hosts. Francis Clarke saw his 50th minute effort blocked while Jon Akinde saw his 54th minute effort just miss the target. Vennings and Lisbie both had chances which were denied by home keeper Ross, on 69 minutes - the second save leaving the home keeper injured and unable to continue. But, with Braintree pushing players forward, a quick move on 75 minutes saw Altrincham open up the Iron defence and Nuttell completed the move for a third. Iron kept going and Chay Cooper drove his volley past replacement home keeper Fallon on 83 minutes - but it proved to be little more than a consolation. Despite the defeat, Woking's heavier defeat at York saw them slip below Braintree who moved up to 17th in the table on alphabetical order! Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League trip to Gateshead this Tuesday 11th February, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Francis puts Iron ahead but Hartlepool level in time added on Braintree suffered the cruelty of a late, late leveller to deny then three points in Saturday afternoon's 1-1 draw with visitors Hartlepool United. Braintree were arguably the better of the two sides before the break but turned around goal-less. Jermaine Francis finally broke the deadlock with twenty minutes remaining. Chay Cooper released Francis on the right and he cut inside before drilling his shot into the bottom corner for 1-0. The Teeside club threw bodies forward late on with keeper Henry Gray making a couple of stunning saves before substitute Miley levelled in the seventh minute of the six added on to secure his side a point. Next up for Iron is a Vanarama League trip to Altrincham this Saturday 8th February, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Hartlepool United on Saturday, 1st February are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in force, visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Braintree into National League Cup last eight with perfect four wins from four matches Braintree Town completed their dominance of the National League Cup Group D with a fourth win in their four matches, beating visitors Tottenham Hotspur 3-1. Iron were ahead just before the half hour through Chay Cooper, who added a second just before the break. The North London club pulled a goal back with fifteen minutes remaining through Oliver Irow, but Braintree secured their unblemished record with a third from the penalty spot on 82 minutes from Kyrell Lisbie. News on our quarter final opponents when we have it. Next up for Iron is a return to Vanarama League action and the visit of Hartlepool United this Saturday 1st February, with kick-off at 3pm. Lisbie torments on the flank and Big John despatches the spot kick Braintree made the short journey to Gravesend on Saturday and came back with all three points from a single-goal victory. The decider came on 34 minutes. Moments earlier Kyrell Lisbie had tormented the Ebbsfleet defence with a lightning break on the left flank. Into the home 18-yard box and Lisbie was crudely scythed down by Ben Chapman as he surged towards the six yard box to earn a penalty. John Akinde tucked the resultant spot past the keeper Mark Cousins for 1-0. After the break, the home side pushed forward in search of a leveller but found the Iron defence well marshalled and the Gravesend club rarely threatened. Next up for Iron is a return to National League Cup action and the visit of Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday 29th January, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Iron head north in mid-February Braintree Town's Vanarama League fixture at Gateshead - originally scheduled for Saturday, 11th January but postponed because of a frozen pitch - has been re-arranged. The match will now take place at the International Stadium on Tuesday, 11th February, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Robinson volley from 25 yards secures the points Iron secured another deserved three points from Saturday's single-goal victory over play-off hopefuls Solihull Moors at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Saturday. Braintree dominated the first half for lengthy periods and what ultimately proved to be the decider came after sixteen minutes. A mazey run through the heart of the Moors defence by Ryan Clampin was eventually switched to the right flank by Jermaine Francis to the waiting Jacob Pinnington. The right winger saw his cross from the by-line only partially cleared to the waiting Matt Robinson who drilled the ball into the top left corner from outside the visitors penalty area for 1-0. Kyrell Lisbie came close to adding a second on 27 minutes. Racing through the Moors defence his shot beat keeper Killian Barratt but hit the far left upright before rebounding to the grateful Barratt. After the break chances kept on coming. Te pick of them being Lisbie's cross from the left which was headed just over by Jon Akinde on 62 minutes but, just as important, Iron keeper Henry Gray produced a cracking reaction save a couple of minutes later to deny Fletcher Holman's shot from close range. Solihull pushed players forward late on but Braintree's defence held firm to secure their tenth clean sheet of the season. Next up for Iron is a trip to Ebbsfleet United in the Vanarama League on Saturday 25th January, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Solihull Moors on Saturday, 18th January are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Ahead and behind, Braintree earn themselves a point Iron travelled to Aldershot Town on Tuesday and secured a point from a 2-2 draw. Both sides played their part in an entertaining end to end first half. After just a couple of minutes, Kyrell Lisbie reacted to a great through ball before bustling his way through the home defence and then steer his shot past the home keeper. On nine minutes Iron's lead could've been two as Jermaine Francis raced through the Aldershot defence, but saw his shot just miss the far left upright. Aldershot levelled through Henry on 16 minutes and then the home side then took the lead eight minutes later with a speculative lob from Barrett over the stranded Henry Clark. But Iron kept on battling and levelled things up at 2-2 through the alert Jon Akinde who pounced on a free ball to score from close range. Just before the break Lisbie could have restored Braintree's lead when Vennings' corner from the right found the unmarked Iron forward but his header dipped just wide of the post. After the break Aldershot pushed forward and twice hit the woodwork. But the Iron defence held their nerve to earn a point. It could have been all three in time added when Jon Akinde was free at the far post but his header from close range just missed hit the target. Next up for Iron is the visit of Solihull Moors to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Saturday 18th January, with kick-off at 3pm. International Stadium pitch is frozen Saturday's Vanarama League fixture at Gateshead was postponed because of a frozen pitch and league rules state that it should be rearranged within six weeks - more news on a new date when we have it. Can you help the Club with this important admin role? Club Secretary James Crysell has advised the Club of his decision to step down from his role. The position is a part-time voluntary one and would be ideally suited for a supporter wanting to play an integral part in the day-to-day running of the club and would also be invited to be an associate director of the Club. All at the Club would like to thank James for his hard work over the past year and a half. James has kindly offered to help his successor with a handover for the newcomer. The Club therefore have a vacancy for the post of Club Secretary and all those interested should contact the Club Chairman at chairman@braintreetownfc.org.uk for more information. Match set to be re-arranged towards end of January Braintree Town's scheduled National League Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur's PL2 side today has been postponed because of a frozen pitch. The game is likely to be re-arranged for a date later this month. Iron impress for lengthy spells but Southend take the points Iron impressed during either ends of this tense local derby and could have taken an eighteenth minute lead when Chay Cooper pounced on a defensive mistake to weave past two defenders only to see his effort zip just wide of the target. The visitors scored a contentious goal moments later when James Vennings looked to be fouled in the build up to Pepple scoring on 20 minutes. Just before the interval Cooper turned provider with a fast break on the left, but Southend keeper Andeng Ndi pulled off a smart save to deny Jermaine Francis. The second half saw Southend in control and Pepple could have added a second were it not for a fine clearance by Frankie Terry on the hour. As the clock started to wind down, Iron came more into the game and put the visitors under pressure. Cooper tried his luck from a corner after 84 minutes and saw it just dip over the far upright. Iron threw bodies forward in the nine minutes of added time but a combination of luck and defensive heroics kept Iron from scoring. A big crowd for the game: 3285, with great support from Southend. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday 4th January and a return to National League Cup action at home to Tottenham Hotspur, with kick-off at 3pm. The forecast cold weather is a concern for this match and pitch updates will follow. If the game goes ahead, admission for this match has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs & Under 18s. The tickets for the visitors segregated area have now sold out - and home tickets selling fast. PLEASE NOTE: This match is ALL TICKET and tickets must be purchased in advance of the game. No supporters will be allowed to 'pay on the day'. Tickets for the segregated away section of the ground for New Year's Day's game against Southend United have sold out. Sales of tickets for the home part of the ground are selling fast. Home supporters are advised to purchase tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Home supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. HOME supporters enter the stadium via gates 1-4. As usual, Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5 & 6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. AWAY supporters enter the stadium via gates 7, 8 & 9. AWAY supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 3pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Given the larger than usual crowd, lengthy delays are expected at the turnstiles and all supporters are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Cooper & Lisbie net a brace each Braintree put in a fine Boxing Day performance at Dagenham & Redbridge to ease themselves out of the relegation places with a 4-2 victory. Kyrell Lisbie put Iron ahead on 19 minutes - converting a free kick pumped into the box into the bottom corner. Six minutes later and Iron doubled their lead when Chay Cooper netted at the back post into the far corner. Just before the break, Pereira pulled a goal back two minutes before the interval for the hosts, but hopes of a Dagenham comeback were laid to rest early in the second half. First Cooper netted his second of the game on 49 minutes - drilling home a rebound - and then Lisbie matched that with his second just before the hour to make 4-1 - dispossessing the home right back before breaking into the home 18 yard box and slotting the ball home at the near post. A wicked deflection off Louie Annersley in time added on brought the score back to 4-2 for the home side, but Iron were worthy winners. Next up for Iron is on New Year's Day 1st January and another Vanarama League match at home to Essex neighbours Southend United with kick-off at 5.30pm. Visitors impress with workmanlike display Braintree Town slipped to a two-goal defeat at home to promotion hopefuls Oldham Athletic on Saturday. Josh Stones's 16th minute header put the Lancashire side ahead before Norwood added a second ten minutes after the break, latching on to a backpass before slotting his effort past Covolan. Iron had chances to get themselves back into the game, but Oldham put in a professional performance to secure the three points. Next up for Iron is on Boxing Day 26th December and another Vanarama League match at Essex neighbours Dagenham & Redbridge with kick-off at 3pm. The ticket for the visitors segregated area has been increased - extra tickets now available online. With the agreement of Essex Police, we have been able to increase the designated segregated area for visiting spectators on New Year's Day. These additional tickets are available immediately. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. PLEASE NOTE: This match is ALL TICKET and tickets must be purchased in advance of the game. No supporters will be allowed to 'pay on the day'. HOME supporters are required to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4. AWAY supporters are required to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7, 8 & 9. AWAY supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 3pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Given the larger than usual crowd, lengthy delays are expected at the turnstiles and all supporters are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. As usual, Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5 & 6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. New dates for the visits of Tottenham & Wealdstone Our National League Cup match, originally scheduled for Tuesday, 7th January 2025, against Tottenham Hotspur has been re-scheduled. This game has been brought forward to Saturday, 4th January 2025, with kick-off at 3pm. Admission for this match has been reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs & Under 18s. Our Vanarama League match at home to Wealdstone has been deferred by 24 hours to accommodate the requirements of TV and will now take place here at the Rare Breed Meat Company Stadium on Wednesday, 19 February, kick-off 7.45pm. Tickets for Braintree's match at home to Southend United on New Year's Day are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for this match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. PLEASE NOTE: This match is ALL TICKET and tickets must be purchased in advance of the game. No supporters will be allowed to 'pay on the day'. HOME supporters are required to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4. AWAY supporters are required to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7-8. Given the larger than usual crowd, lengthy delays are expected at the turnstiles and all supporters are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. AWAY supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Early lead turned around by home side Braintree made the long 400-mile round trip to Somerset to visit Yeovil Town on Saturday and came home beaten by three goals to one, dispute taking the lead during an impressive first half. Fifteen minutes in and a defence splitting through ball from George Langston released John Akinde behind the Yeovil defence and the big man lifted the ball over home keeper Wright to give Iron a deserved lead. But the Somerset club levelled on 27 minutes through Jarvis as the two sides turned around all square. The home side took advantage of indecision in the Braintree defence to take the lead through Cousin-Dawson after 62 minutes. Iron then pushed players forward in search of a leveller only to concede a third in time added through McGavin, with players out of position to give the home side a rather flattering victory. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 21st December and another Vanarama League match at home to Oldham Athletic with kick-off at 3pm. Tom Blackwell puts Braintree within touching distance of quarter-finals Iron extended their lead at the top of National League cup Group D to five points with an entertaining single-goal victory over visiting Premier Leaguers Nottingham Forest's Under 21s. The decider came just before the interval. Callum Powell setting up Tom Blackwell to score from close range. The victory was Braintree's third win in three matches in the competition. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 14th December and another Vanarama League match at Yeovil Town with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Oldham Athletic on Saturday, 21st December are now available online. Tickets for our Vanarama League match at home to Southend United on New Year's Day will be available from next Monday, 16th December. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Nottingham Forest youngsters visit on Tuesday Braintree continue their involvement in the National League Cup with a Group D game against Nottingham Forest's PL2 side this Tuesday, 10th December, with kick-off at 7.30pm. Tickets will not be sold in advance for this match and admission will be payable at turnstiles 1-4 on the day. Admission to this game has been reduced to Adults: £10 and OAPs & Under 18s: £5. Penalty save sees Iron out of the FA Trophy Braintree matched high-flying Forest Green Rovers for the FA Trophy match on Saturday but were eliminated from the competition in a penalty competition during very difficult weather conditions. Iron took the lead against a side chasing a swift return to the Football League after 34 minutes. A stunning over-head kick from Kyrell Lisbie breaking the deadlock. But in deteriorating weather conditions Iron conceded midway through the second half when May levelled for the Gloucestershire side. No further goals dictated a 1-1 final score and a swift penalty shoot out which saw Iron have one penalty saved and Rovers convert all five of theirs to go through 5-3. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 10th December at home to visitors Nottingham Forest in another National League Cup match, with kick-off at 7.30pm. "We all know there is work ahead of us but we know Steve well - It's good to see him back at our Club" Braintree Town have appointed Steve Pitt to the role of First Team Manager with immediate effect. Steve worked with former manager Angelo Harrop from the summer of 2022 to his departure at Christmas 2023. Chairman Lee Harding was pleased with the appointment: "When we approached Steve about the job he was about to take another role in the game. We talked at length about what had happened and were impressed with his honest assessment of where the Club are at and his thoughts on turning our season around. "We all know there is work ahead of us but we know Steve well - It's good to see him back at our Club. He played a pivotal role in our progress in the past two seasons and I am confident that we can look forward to the remainder of the season with optimism." Steve said: "I'm honoured & privileged to take on the role of 1st team manager at Braintree Town FC and will now look to build on the foundations that Angelo has already laid. "My new management team will consist of Karl Duguid - who will join me in the role of assistant manager - and Phil Coleman - who will take on the role of 1st team coach. "We are now all looking forward to the challenge that lays ahead." The Club would also like to place on record their thanks to former interim manager Justin Moseley who had helped to steady the proverbial ship over the past couple of games. Justin was invited to remain part of the Club's coaching set up, but has decided his future lies elsewhere and we wish him all the very best for the future. Tickets for Braintree's Isuzu FA Trophy match at home to FOREST GREEN ROVERS on Saturday, 7th December are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, all supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Tickets for this match have been discounted to: Adults: £15, plus ticket fee, Concessions: £10, plus ticket fee and both Under 18s and Under 12s: just £1 (IF ACCOMPANIED BY A FEE PAYING ADULT*), plus ticket fee. * otherwise £5 As this is a FA Trophy tie, supporters are reminded that Season tickets are not valid for this match. Guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. All supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1.30pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Inih Effiong scores decider Braintree Town secured their second National League Cup victory with a 3-2 success over West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday evening. Jamal Fyfield put Iron ahead after 16 minutes, but two goals in twelve minutes from Cleary saw West Brom in control, but Kyrell Lisbie levelled things up at 2-2 just before the break. The decider came ten minutes from time through Inih Effiong, who fired home from close range. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 7th December at home to visitors Forest Green Rovers in a Isuzu FA Trophy Third Round match, with kick-off at 3pm. West Brom. youngsters visit on Tuesday Braintree continue their involvement in the National League Cup with a Group D game against West Bromwich Albion's PL2 side this Tuesday, 3rd December, with kick-off at 7.30pm. Tickets will not be sold in advance for this match and admission will be payable at turnstiles 1-4 on the day. Admission to this game has been reduced to Adults: £10 and OAPs & Under 18s: £5. Early goals settle outcome Braintree Town and fourth-plaved Gateshead shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw on Saturday. Jermaine's fourth minute header from Chay Cooper's cross gave Iron the lead, only for Oseni to level three minutes later for the Tynesiders. A cracking fourteenth minute strike from all of 25 yards from Louie Annesley put Iron back in from on 14 minutes before Grayson leered for Gateshead on 20 minutes. 2-2 at the break Braintree's job wasn't made any more easier following the dismissal of Chay Cooper on the hour for two cautions, but the Iron defence held firm and were good value for their point. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 3rd December at home to visitors West Bromwich Albion in another National League Cup match, with kick-off at 7.30pm. First Team Coach Justin Moseley steps up as Interim Manager Following last night's match, the Braintree Board of Directors discussed the situation at the Club. The Board then met with Angelo Harrop to advise him of their concerns and their decision to end his tenure as First Team Manager. The Board subsequently agreed to ask First Team Coach Justin Moseley to assist as interim manager. Chairman Lee Harding explained: "We have been talking with Angelo since the start of the season and the Board have decided it is time for a change to safeguard the Club's future. We would like to thank Angelo for his efforts over the past two years at the Club. We have achieved much together and wish him all the very best in the future. We then spoke with both Justin Moseley and senior players after the game, who have all agreed to help the Club going forward. All of us are now focused on turning our fortunes around with training this week and our game against Gateshead on Saturday." Looking ahead, the Club will be advertising for a replacement in due course. For more information contact the Club at info@braintreetownfc.org.uk. Pre-match preparations leave Braintree players floundering Despite the poor showing on Saturday at Boston, The Braintree lads did not train at all before last night's match with Maidenhead United. The only preparation appeared to be a brief video resume in the sponsors lounge less than two hours before kick-off - with the players told to not worry about the opposition. The instructions seemed to backfire as Iron found themselves two goals adrift in the first ten minutes as the Berkshire side gleefully accepted gifts for McCoulsky in the opening minute and Abraham eight minutes later. The first 45 minutes was another poor half for Braintree, who turned around 2-0 adrift at the break. It was better after the interval and Kyrell Lisbie reduced the arrears halfway through the second 45 minutes, but the rekindled hope lasted barely six minutes before Iron conceded a penalty, for which Marley Miranda was dismissed for a second caution. The converted spot kick restored the visitors two-goal cushion and effectively ended the match as a contest. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 30th November at home to visitors Gateshead in another Vanarama National League match, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron struggle to match Boston and the weather Braintree slipped one place to twentieth in the National League table after going down 3-1 at a wet and wind-swept Boston United on Saturday. Iron were left with an uphill battle after conceding in the opening minute and efforts to recover were further hindered after conceding moments before the break. Cameron Green gave the Lincolnshire club an early lead as his shot was not held by Iron keeper Lucas Covolan and Jacob Hazel made it 2-0 when his long range effort also got the better of Covolan. Frankie Maguire made it 3-0 for the home side just before the hour, only to see Jermaine Francis pull a goal back on 71 minutes, heading home Ryam Clampin's cross. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 26th November at home to visitors Maidenhead United in another Vanarama National League match, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to MAIDENHEAD UNITED on Tuesday, 26th November are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in place, visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 6.30pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. on Saturday 7 December Braintree have been drawn at home to National League leaders Forest Green Rovers in the Third Round of this season's Isuzu FA Trophy. The two sides met for a league match in Gloucestershire in October and Iron were unlucky to not come home with a point after a contentious late winner for the home side saw them win 2-1. The match will be played at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Saturday 7 December, with kick-off at 3pm. If the scores are level at ninety minutes - extra time will not be played - with the outcome decided by the taking of kicks from the penalty mark. Single goal victory over AFC Fylde Braintree moved up one place to nineteenth following Saturday's single goal victory at home to visitors AFC Fylde. Iron had the better of the first half with Inih Effiong seeing his shot saved by Fylde keeper Winterbottom on the half hour. The second half saw the Lancashire club reduced to ten men with Tyler Robers dismissed for two cautions in just four minutes either side of the hour mark. The winner came on the hour. A long ball forward from George Langston was crossed into the visitors six yard box and pulled back for the unmarked Effiong to lift the ball over Winterbottom from close range. In time added on the visitors could have grabbed an unlikely leveller but Ustabasi's effort skimmed the bar. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 23rd November and a Vanarama National League match at Boston United, with kick-off at 3pm.   Braintree Town FC Welcomes Westdrive as Official Shirt Sponsor for the 2024/25 Season Braintree Town Football Club is proud to announce that Westdrive Group, the well-established Kia and Mazda dealership in Braintree, will be the official shirt sponsor for the current 2024/25 season. This exciting partnership underscores the importance of local businesses coming together to support both the community and its sports teams. Football Club Chairman, Lee Harding, expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed collaboration: "We are thrilled to have Westdrive return as our shirt sponsor. Our relationship with Westdrive goes back several years, and we're excited to welcome them back to The Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium. Braintree Town FC has worked hard to rise through the ranks of the football pyramid to compete in the National League, and similarly, Westdrive has grown to become a key player in the local car industry. This partnership is a fantastic reflection of how local organisations can thrive together. We look forward to a successful season with their support." Westdrive's Head of Sales and Marketing, John Palfree, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the shared values of community and excellence: "We're delighted to renew our association with Braintree Town FC, a club with deep roots in the local community. At Westdrive, we take pride in our strong reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction, and we see this sponsorship as a perfect way to give back to the community that has supported us. We look forward to supporting the team throughout the season and further strengthening our position as the leading local car sales group." The partnership highlights Westdrive's commitment not only to business excellence but also to contributing to the growth and success of the local community through sports. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to AFC FYLDE on Saturday, 16th November are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. If segregation is in place, visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Iron win by odd goal in three at Eastleigh Braintree lifted themselves out of the National League relegation places with a deserved 2-1 victory at mid-table Eastleigh on Saturday. Coming from behind at the break, second half goals from Tom Blackwell and an own goal gave Iron three points on their travels for the first time this season. Tyrese Shade gave the Spitfires the lead after 25 minutes - firing his effort into he bottom right cormer from the edge of the box. Tom Blackwell levelled things up on 54 minutes heading home his effort from close range from a Chay Cooper cross. The winner came nine minutes from time - initially awarded to Frankie Terry from a long George Langston throw, the decider was eventually recorded as a McCallum own goal. The three points lifted up to 20th in the National League table. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 12th November and a Braintree Town XI will make the short journey to Saffron Walden Town in the Essex Senior Cup, followed by a return to Vanarama National League action at home to 18th placed AFC Fylde, nest Saturday 16th November, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree recover from first half deficits to win Braintree started their involvement in the National League Cup with a Group D game against West Ham United PL2 side on Tuesday evening to win 4-2. Ajala put the East London side ahead after just nine minutes, John Akinde levelled seven minutes later, before Scarles put West Ham back in front nine minutes before the break. It stayed this way until three second half goals from Braintree saw them take control of the tie. Inih Effiong levelled on 61 minutes and Kyrell Lisbie made it 3-2 four minutes later. George Langston put the outcome beyond doubt three minutes from time. Next up in the National League cup is a visit from West Bromwich Albion PL2 on Tuesday 3 December, followed by Tottenham Hotspur PL2 on Tuesday 7 January. A date for the visit of Nottingham Forest PL2 is yet to be arranged. Tickets will not be sold in advance for these matches and admission will be payable at turnstiles 1-4 on the day. Admission to these games has been reduced to Adults: £10 and OAPs & Under 18s: £5. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 9th November and another Vanarama National League fixture at Eastleigh, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree lose penalty shoot out Iron crashed out of this season's Emirates FA Cup going down 6-5 in a sudden death penalty shoot out at Vanarama North side Brackley Town after the game had finished goal-less at both ninety minutes and one hundred and twenty minutes. In what was a close fought, competitive and entertaining affair, Braintree were second best before the interval but looked the more likely to break the deadlock after the interval. Goal-less at the end of normal time, both sides were tired going into extra time. But with the fitness of part time Brackley often embarrassing their supposedly full time opposition, many people's man of the match was Iron keeper Lucas Covolan, who's heroics kept the Vanarama League top flight side in the tie, before the heartbreak of the penalty shot out lottery. Good luck to our friends at Brackley in Round 2. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 5th November and our opening fixture in the National League Cup, at home to West Ham United's PL2 side, with kick-off at 7.45pm. For more details see below. Hammers youngsters visit on Tuesday Braintree start their involvement in the National League Cup with a Group D game against West Ham United PL2 side next Tuesday, 5th November, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Tickets will not be sold in advance for this match and admission will be payable at turnstiles 1-4 on the day. Admission to this game has been reduced to Adults: £10 and OAPs & Under 18s: £5. Harrop's boys second best again Iron slipped to another poor defeat going down by the only goal at home to visitors Sutton United on Saturday. After a more encouraging first half, the Braintree lads seemed to lose momentum after their half-time briefing from Manager Harrop - as the team offered little in cohesion, organisation or pattern of play. Like the second half display at Wealdstone on the Wednesday before, Braintree offered little invention going forward after the break and a goal was only likely to come from the visitors. The Surrey club took advantage of awful defensive play to score the decider early in the second half - courtesy of former Iron player Will Davies who, unmarked in the home six yard box, slid the ball home from a cross in from the right. The defeat, Iron's third in eight days, saw the side slip further into the relegation mire, two points adrift of safety. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 2nd November and a return to Emirates FA Cup action and a First Round trip to Vanarama North side Brackley Town, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree lose by odd goal in five at Wealdstone Braintree journeyed around the M25 to Wealdstone on Wednesday evening and saw another potential three point haul slip away. Sam Ashford put the Middlesex side ahead after just ten minutes but Iron responded positively with two goals in quick succession to take the initiative. Louie Annesley's flick from a free kick levelling the scores after 13 minutes and Callum Powell intercepted a poor cross field ball to place his shot into an unguarded net putting Braintree ahead three minutes later. Iron remained ahead until ten minutes after the break, when Alex Reid levelled for the home side and a second from Ashford mid-way through the second half earned Wealdstone only their second win of the season. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 26th October and another Vanarama National League fixture at home to Sutton United, with kick-off at 3pm. Play allowed to continue as Braintree focus on injury Iron made the journey to Nailsworth on Saturday and came home beaten by the odd goal in three. But it was a defeat that was tinged with controversy. Braintree took a tenth minute lead. Inih Effiong broke into the home 18 yard box, saw his effort to shoot blocked and Finley wilkinson followed up to drive the loose ball into the bottom left corner. The Gloucestershire side levelled ten minutes before the interval through Cardwell. Latching on to a defensive header, he broke on the right before steering his shot past Lucas Covolan. The home side pushed forward after the break but the Iron defence dealt with most of what was thrown at them until the last minute. With a Braintree player lying on the ground injured and out of the game, the home side took a throw-in which was then launched into the Braintree defence from where MacAllister drilled the half clearance from the edge of the penalty area. Next up for Iron is this coming Wednesday evening 23rd October and another Vanarama National League fixture as we travel to Ruislip Manor's old ground to visit Wealdstone, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Vanarama North side beat Hartlepool in replay Braintree have been drawn away to Vanarama North side Brackley Town in the Emirates FA Cup First Round. The match will take place on Saturday, 2nd November 2024, with kick-off at 3pm. The Northamptonshire side drew their Fourth Qualifying Round tie 1-1 at Hartlepool United on Saturday and won their replay 3-1 on Tuesday evening, having been a goal down on the half hour. Tickets for Braintree's next Vanarama League match at home to Sutton United on Saturday, 26th October are now available online. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders and guests should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are also advised that the Away Fan zone will be open from 1pm with a bar selling lagers and ales, together with Sindy's Hot Food Outlet which will also be open next to the entrance to the Away Bar. Effiong early strike separates the two sides Braintree extended their improved home form with their third successive home win without conceding on Saturday. The single-goal victory over visitors Bishop's Stortford attracting a decent 1258 attendance including 412 from Hertfordshire. Having relied on late goals in recent games, Iron took the lead early on when Inih Effiong was quickest to react in the Stortford penalty area after just six minutes. Kyrell Lisbie had broke through the Stortford defence, saw his snapshot blocked by visiting keeper Charlie Binns before Effiong reacted quickly to poke the ball into an unguarded goal. Iron took the initiative thereafter and could have made it 2-0 on 20 minutes Callum Powell crossed for Effiong who saw his header well saved by Binns and Powell's follow up shot was palmed away by the Stortford keeper for a corner. On 26 minutes James Vennings' free kick hit the wall and fell for Effiong, but his header looped just over the bar. After the break Iron continued to push forward. Six minutes after the re-start A corner found Effiong but his shot was blocked by the visitors' defence. Stortford had a couple of half chances as they tried to level the score. Rashawn Scott saw his effort zip across the home six yard box and Luke Warner-Eley tried his luck from distance but Lucas Covolan saved well. Iron managed the latter stages of game well to see out time and secure their place in Monday evening's First Round draw. Braintree Town are ball number 80 in Monday evening's draw, which will be aired live on BBC2 from the Valley Parade ground in Bradford - starting at 7pm. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 19th October and a return to Vanarama National League action as we travel to Gloucestershire to visit Forest Green Rovers, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron impress in two-goal victory Iron continued their recent improved form with a two-goal victory over visitors Altrincham at the Rare Breed Meat Company Stadium on Saturday. Braintree took the lead on 17 minutes. An inch-perfect cross from Louie Annesley was headed past Altrincham keeper Ethan Ross from close range. Iron dominate proceedings for lengthy periods, but could not break the resistance of the Cheshire club's defence. Home fans had to wait until late on until Braintree secured the three points. With just a minute of the ninety remaining, substitute and debutant Rio Davidson Phipps broke through the Altrincham defence on the right and was fouled in the visitors penalty area. John Akinde despatched the resulting free kick past Altrincham keeper Ethan Ross for 2-0. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 12th October. A switch away from Vanarama National League action as we commence our interest in this season's Emirates FA Cup competition with a Fourth Qualifying Round tie at home to neighbours Bishop's Stortford, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron entertain Bishop's Stortford in the FA Cup Braintree Town have been drawn at home to Southern Leaguers Bishop's Stortford in the Fourth and Final Qualifying Round of the Emirates FA Cup, with this match scheduled for a week on Saturday, 12th October. Early goal sinks Braintree Braintree Town made the long journey north to visit Rochdale on Saturday and came away beaten by the only goal of the game after just eight minutes. Kairo Mitchell tucked home a cross from the right six yards out. Chasing the game, Iron impressed for lengthy spells. Jamal Fyfield saw his 16th minute header narrowly miss the far upright from a James Vennings cross. Callum Powell saw his effort two minutes later just miss the target. Finlay Wilkinson tried his luck from 25 yards on the half hour and home keeper McNicholas only just saved. After the break Marley Marshall-Miranda, tried his luck just before the hour mark, while Powell set up Jermaine Francis on 65 minutes but his effort skidded wide for a corner. Iron continued to push forward late on in search of that elusive equaliser but the Lancashire side held on the secure the points. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 5th October, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at home to Altrincham, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron fans witness late, late drama again After the agony of a time added on goal for visitors Tamworth on Saturday, Braintree fans had a late goal to celebrate at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Tuesday evening against visitors FC Halifax Town as Iron won by the only goal. James Vennings tried his luck from all of 25 yards after 20 minutes and Halifax keeper Sam Johnson had to be at his best to palm the effort away. Five minutes after the re-start Jermaine Francis had a strong penalty appeal waved away after being upended in the Halfax penalty area. Midway through the second 45 minutes Kyrell Lisbie saw his header dip just over the crossbar as Iron started to control proceedings. Finally a chance for a break through came in the last minute of the ninety. Francis was blatantly fouled in the penalty area and Inih Effiong stepped up to drive the resultant spot kick into the top corner. The three points lifted Braintree out of the relegation places up to 19th. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday afternoon 28th September, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at Rochdale, with kick-off at 3pm. Braintree look to bounce back on Tuesday A freak goal in the fourth minute of time added on from Tom Tonks saw Tamworth secure the three points in agonising style for Braintree at the Rare Breed Meat Company Stadium on Saturday. Iron struggled to assert themselves before the break but looked the better of the two sides during the second 45 minutes. Jermaine Francis had a strong shout for a penalty waved away on 32 minutes for Iron after being brought down in the visitors 18 yard box. After the break Jamal Fyfield's 54th minute header bounced over the crossbar and the visitors keeper Jas Singh seemed to pull the ball back from well behind the goal-line four minutes later - but the match officials were not up with play to award Braintree the deserved goal. Francis had a second penalty appeal ignored seven minutes from time when he was bundled over in the visitors penalty area. Tamworth had the ball in the Braintree net in the third of the five added minutes but the effort was ruled out for offside. A minute later a wicked ricochet from all of 35 yards out wide on the right saw the ball loop agonisingly over the stranded Lucas Covolan from Tamworth substitute Tom Tonks to send the visitors home happy. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday evening 24th September, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at home to FC Halifax Town, with kick-off at 7.45pm. FA Cup draw, Wealdstone date switch and holiday kick-off times. Next up for us is this coming Saturday afternoon, 21st September, when we welcome Tamworth. This match is quickly followed next Tuesday evening, 24th September, when we entertain FC Halifax Town - both games here at the Rare Breed Meat Company Stadium in the Vanarama National League. We then visit Rochdale in the Vanarama League next Saturday, 28th September, before returning here for another Vanarama League match a fortnight today, when Altrincham are the visitors. In the FA Cup, our trip to Rochdale coincides with FA Cup Third Qualifying Round day so the draw for the Fourth and final Qualifying round will be made on Monday, 30th September, with our entry into the competition set for Saturday 12th October - let's hope for a home draw! Finally, some Vanarama League fixture news. Our match at Wealdstone has been put back for 24 hours to accommodate DAZN TV requirements and will now take place on the following Wednesday evening, 23rd October - while our festive holiday matches at Dagenham & Redbridge on Boxing Day and at home to Southend United on New Year's Day will both kick-off at 3pm. Ahead in the opening minute - Iron go down 3-1 at Barnet Iron were beaten 3-1 at pre-season favourites Barnet on Saturday, despite taking the lead in the opening minute! The opening exchanges saw John Akinde burst through the home defence before steering his shot inside the right upright for an early advantage. But the home side responded and levelled in the fourth minute through Mark Shelton and took the lead after seventeen through Callum Stead. Braintree were the better of the two sides after the break and could have been awarded a penalty when Callum Powell was up-ended in the home penalty area mid-way through the second half, but the Harrow side put the game beyond doubt with seven minutes remaining when Zak Brunt's cross from the left hit George Langston to add the third. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday 21st September, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at home to Tamworth, with kick-off at 3pm. Early goal not enough to spare defeat on the road Braintree Town returned home in the small hours following Tuesday evening's odd goal in three defeat at York City. Frankie Terry gave Iron a fourth minute lead before goals from Aguiar, on 18 minutes, and Nathaniel-George, three minutes before the interval, secured victory for the home side. Iron opened the scoring when George Langston crossed for the unmarked Frankie Terry to head home. But a wicked deflection on 18 minutes saw Braintree keeper Lucas Covolan beaten by Ricky Aguiar before Ashley Nathaniel-George took advantage of poor defending to add a second. Iron pushed forward after the break but struggled to break down the home side and returned home beaten for the first time in six outings. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday 14th September, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at Barnet, with kick-off at 3pm. Third consecutive goal-less draw sees Iron five without defeat Iron extended their unbeaten National League record to five with Saturday's goal-less draw at home to Woking. Iron came close on 19 minutes when John Akinde's ball to Chay Cooper, saw Cooper free to shoot but Woking keeper Jaaskelainen did well to save. Just before the break Akinde and Cooper combined again to set up a 25-yarder from Cooper who was again denied by Jaaskelainen. Mid-way through the second half Marley Miranda tried his luck from just outside the box but his effort dipped just over the crossbar. Iron kept on probing but bothe defences were in control as the game ended all square and goal-less. Next up for Iron is this coming Tuesday 10th September, for another Vanarama National League match, this time at York City, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Braintree extend unbeaten run to four matches Braintree made the long journey north to visit Hartlepool United on Saturday and extended their unbeaten run to four matches with a battling goal-less draw. The home side had a couple of half chances to score on the half hour before going down to ten men when their captain Luke Waterfall was shown a straight red card for clashing with George Langston. On the hour James Vennings set up Inih Effiong on the left, but his effort was saved by the home keeper. The home side had a free-kick on 77 minutes which Lucas Covolan did well to tip wide. In time added on Langston saw his cross/shot hit the bar, but neither side could break down the other and the game finished goal-less. It was Braintree's fourth league match without a defeat. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday 7th September, for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against visitors Woking, with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets for Saturday week's segregated home fixture with Woking are now available on line. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. AS with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Those final few supporters who have yet to collect their season ticket can do so on a week on Saturday, but queues are expected and you are advised to arrive in plenty of time (ideally before 2.30pm) to collect your ticket and gain entry to the stadium. Iron unable to breakdown Kent visitors Iron welcomed Ebbsfleet United to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Bank Holiday and were frustrated by the visitors and ultimately had to settle for a point. After a lengthy break to deal with injured Ebbsfleet player Samuel, Braintree's first chance came after 15 minutes when James Vennings set up Kyrell Lisbie. Lisbie saw his effort blocked as was Inih Effiong's follow-up. On 38 minutes Matt Robinson set up Chay Cooper, but Cooper couldn't get a touch and the chance went begging. On 42 minutes Cooper crossed for Effiong but the Iron striker's failed to hit the target. Ebbsfleet's best chance before the break was in time added on when Wes Fonguck should've done better with his effort that sailed over the crossbar. Three minutes after the break, Effiong set up Cooper but Ebbsfleet keeper saved well. On 53 minutes Joe Grimwood tried his luck from the edge of the visitors 18-yard box. It was blocked and fell to Louie Annesley, but his effort was scrambled away.Midway through the second 45 minutes Marley Miranda saw his drive smack the crossbar, before Ebbsfleet substitute Dom Poleon missed a glorious chance through one on one with Iron keeper Lucas Covolan. On 71 Ryan Clampinsaw his effort saved by Cousins. In the last minute John Akinde broke on the left before setting up Miranda, but his shot was just wide of the upright. Neither side could break down the other in the seven minutes of additional time as the game finished goal-less. Next up for Iron is this coming Saturday, 31st August, and a trip to Hartlepool United, followed by a return to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Saturday, 7th September, for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against Woking, with kick-off at 3pm. Iron concede late leveller to settle for a point from Solihull Moors Braintree visited Solihull Moors on Saturday and came home with a point from a 1-1 draw. Iron had the better of the first half and took a seventh minute lead through Kyrell Lisbie. Finding space on the left he cut inside, skipped past two challenges inside the home 18-yard box before steering the ball into the bottom right corner for 1-0. After the break the West Midlands side pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Braintree had strong appeals for what looked to be a clear penalty on 73 minutes, when Lisbie was unceremoniously up-ended in the home penalty area, but the claims were ignored. The home side levelled with ten minutes remaining. Breaking forward on the right James Gale crossed for Brad Stephenson - who saw his shot blocked on the goal-line, but followed up to score from close range. Next up for Iron is this coming Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August, a return to the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against Ebbsfleet United, with kick-off at 3pm. Ticket details for home fixtures through to the end of September are now available on line. We have updated the ticket information for forthcoming home matches through to the end of September online. As with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Tickets for Bank Holiday Monday's segregated home fixture with Ebbsfleet United are now available on line. A reminder that supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. AS with previous matches, Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4 to avoid delays at the turnstiles. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Those final few supporters who have yet to collect their season ticket can do so on Monday, but queues are expected and you are advised to arrive in plenty of time (ideally before 2.30pm) to collect your ticket and gain entry to the stadium. Iron turn match fortunes around to beat Aldershot Braintree recovered from conceding just before the half-time interval to register their first goals and points of the National League season on Tuesday evening against visitors Aldershot Town at the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium. In front of 1227 (227 away), Ryan Jones put the Hampshire club ahead from Theo Widdrington's pass on 45 minutes. Iron levelled things up on 75 minutes when a cracking Chay Cooper cross from the right was met with a thumping header from Kyrell Lisbie past Aldershot keeper Marcus Dewhurst. Braintree kept on pushing forward and that man Lisbie added the winner in the last of the ninety minutes. Latching on to a fine through ball to steer his effort past Dewhurst from just inside the 18-yard box. We travel to the West Midlands on Saturday to visit Solihull Moors (Postcode: B91 2PP). We are back this coming Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August, at the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against Ebbsfllet United, with kick-off at 3pm. Harrop looking for ninety minutes of first hall performance Braintree missed chances during lengthy periods of control before the break, to then concede on the hour through Morgan Williams and go down by the only goal of the game against Yeovil on Saturday. The healthy 1128 crowd, with 166 travelling from Somerset, saw Iron have the better of the chances. Matt Robinson shot was well saved by on 12 minutes as was his effort 13 minutes later. Callum Powell saw his effort on the half hour dip just over and then tried an over-head kick on 38 minutes, which skipped past the far upright. Yeovil had the better of the second half and scored the decider on the hour; a quck corner by Frank Noble finding Williams to slot home. The best Iron chances for a leveller were late on after a flurry of substitutions with Kyrell Lisbie creating a couple of chances only to be denied by the tightest of angles. We are back this coming Tuesday at the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against Aldershot Town, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Tickets for our forthcoming home fixture with Yeovil Town are now available on line. Supporters wishing to purchase their ticket for the match can do so by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. Home supporters wishing to 'pay on the day' are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 1-4. There will be one designated turnstile only for card and cash payments operating for those who do not have the ability to purchase a ticket online, but lengthy delays are expected and you are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Visiting supporters are advised to purchase an e-ticket online (see above) and enter the stadium via gates 7&8 to the right of the main stand. Again spectators are advised to arrive in sufficient time to avoid delay in entering the ground. Season ticket holders should enter the stadium via gates 5&6, adjacent to the Sponsors Lounge. Those supporters who have yet to collect their season ticket can do so on Saturday, but lengthy queues are expected and you are advised to arrive in plenty of time (ideally before 2.30pm) to collect your ticket and gain entry to the stadium. Tickets for our forthcoming home fixtures with Yeovil Town and Aldershot Town are now available on line. In an effort to speed up entry into our stadium, the Club have introduced a new online ticket service. Supporters can now purchase their tickets for matches by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the appropriate online entry turnstile. Missed penalty proves to be a turning point We made the journey up to Oldham and were beaten 3-0 at one of the pre-season promotion favourites, but can take positives from the game. The Boundary Park side were very direct and effective, but we could have done better with both opening goals. Two down after half an hour, we were chasing the game for much of the time but the gift of a penalty just before the break could have got us back in the contest, had it been converted, but it was saved by home keeper Matt Hudson. Oldham were ahead after just nine minutes. Gardner's cross released Uchegbulam in space wide on the left. He broke unchallenged into the box before steering his shot past Knightbridge. Just before the half hour a poor clearance from a throw saw the ball fall to the feet of the grateful Charsley, who promptly steered the ball back into the Iron goal from twelve yards out. We were thrown a potential lifeline just before the break when Ryan Clampin was barged over in the home 18-yard box to earn a penalty. However Effiong's spot kick was poorly struck and easy to save for the Oldham keeper. After the break Oldham effectively secured the three points with their third just before the hour mark. Ogle released Hammond wide on the right inside the Iron penalty area. His shot was stopped but fell to the waiting Fondop who steered the ball home from close range. Numerous substitutions followed and Iron finished strongly but were second best over the course of the ninety minutes. After day we are back here this coming Tuesday at the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium for another Vanarama National League home match, this time against Aldershot Town, with kick-off at 7.45pm. next two Thursday evenings in the clubhouse from 7.30-9pm Season tickets are now available for collection. Those spectators still to collect their season tickets from the Club can do so between 7.30pm and 9pm on Thursday evening, 8th August, from the Clubhouse. Season tickets will also be available for collection from the Club, the following Thursday evening, 15th August, from 7.30pm-9pm. Games with Stevenage and at Oxford City help preparation Iron completed their home pre-season build-up with two matches in less than 24 hours last weekend, going down 2-1 at home to a strong Stevenage side on the Friday evening before a side including a number of trialists were beaten 5-1 at Oxford City on Saturday. The lads now have a clear week to concentrate on Saturday's opening Vanarama League fixture at Oldham Athletic. Tickets for our friendly match against Stevenage are now available on line. In an effort to speed up entry into our stadium, the Club have introduced a new online ticket service. Supporters can now purchase their tickets for matches by clicking on the 'Tickets' tab above and then the 'Buy your tickets here' tab. Following payment, supporters will then be sent a QR code that provides entry at the online entry turnstile. Kick-off 7.45pm. Admission prices for this match will be just £10 adults and £5 OAPs & U18s - turnstiles open at 6.15pm. Iron complete their home pre-season build-up with our match on Friday evening, when we welcome Stevenage for a 7.45pm kick-off. Admission prices for this match will be reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and U18s. A programme for the match will be available at £3. Spectators will be able to sit or stand anywhere in the ground. For more details click on the Tickets tab above. Kick-off 7.45pm. Admission prices for this match will be just £10 adults and £5 OAPs & U18s - turnstiles open at 6.15pm. Iron continue their pre-season build-up with our third home pre-season match on Tuesday evening, when we welcome Bromley for a 7.45pm kick-off. Admission prices for this match will be reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and U18s. A programme for the match will be available at £3. Spectators will be able to sit or stand anywhere in the ground. For more details click on the Tickets tab above. Full Council meeting congratulates Club on promotion Braintree Town Football Club is grateful for the motion carried unanimously at Tuesday evening's Full Council Meeting of Braintree District Council and thanks the Councillors that took time to speak for their kind words about our club's success and promotion into the professional game - once again just one promotion away from the Football League. See YouTube clip (Item 6 after 27 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/live/YstueWPLoSQ?si=RUb_RVes8KVWglFN Football Club chairman Lee Harding said:"The Football Club is proud to represent the town and district of Braintree - our home. But, despite continued investment over recent years, the Football Club has worrying problems with the maintenance of such an old football stadium and, if the Club are to continue and flourish, we urgently need either a complete re-build of existing facilities or relocation to new. He added: "The Football Club is undoubtedly a Braintree success story. We have been in discussion with The Council about relocation from our existing 102 year old stadium for the past twenty-two years. The past decades have shown us that Braintree Council is the Football Club's friend and we look forward to further positive dialogue with our local authority in the months and years ahead as we to return to the highest level outside of the Football League and strive to secure a long term future." Kick-off 7.45pm. Admission prices for this match will be just £10 adults and £5 OAPs & U18s - turnstiles open at 6.15pm. Iron continue their pre-season build-up with our second home pre-season match on Friday evening, when we welcome Cambridge United for a 7.45pm kick-off. Admission prices for this match will be reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and U18s. A programme for the match will be available at £3. Spectators will be able to sit or stand anywhere in the ground. For more details click on the Tickets tab above. Promotion means segregation and more turnstiles required Following promotion and the need for segregation and more turnstiles to be open on a matchday, the Club have vacancies for additional turnstile operators. It is hoped that the Club's new online ticketing system will be operational for our first National League fixture at home to Yeovil Town however staff co-ordinating the turnstiles will not be required to deal with ticket payment, but simply ensuring that supporters have the correct paper or electronic ticket to enter the stadium. It is expected that turnstile staff will be required for two hours before kick-off and will be given free entry to all matches. If you'd like to assist the Club with this important role speak to Lee Harding at one of our pre-season friendlies. Strong Premier League side win 5-0 Braintree Town continued their pre-season build-up with a challenging game at home to a strong Crystal Palace XI on Tuesday evening. The South London club took an early third minute lead and added a second nine minutes later. A third just before the break saw Iron turn around 3-0 down before goals on the hour and five minutes from time completed the scoring for the Palace team. Pre-season continues with draw and a win Braintree Town continued their pre-season build-up a 3-1 victory at Leiston last Tuesday evening and a 1-1 draw at Hornchurch. Last Tuesday Iron took the lead after 15 minutes at Leiston, before adding a second just after the break. Leiston pulled a goal back before we added a third on the hour. It was a game of two penalties at Hornchurch on Saturday. Iron were a goal down after half an hour as Adams put the East Londoners ahead from the spot, but levelled early in the second half through Inih Effiong. Season tickets available in early August If you would like to purchase a season ticket for our forthcoming return to the National League next season, prices are on the tickets page (hit the link above) and application forms are available from the Clubhouse bar. For those that have purchased their Season tickets already, these should be available for collection from the Club on Friday, 2nd August when we are at home to Stevenage in a pre-season friendly match. You could be the Official Main Stand Sponsor in full view of the TNT Sports cameras This summer has reminded everyone the power and magic of football and the importance of lower and non-league football. By partnering with The Iron you are playing a vital role in helping the community focused club to achieve its continued progression on and off the pitch as we return to the top-flight of non-league football! We are reaching out to the vast business community across Essex and beyond - for the next ten businesses joining Club125 for just £1,500 plus VAT from today you will not only receive a pitch-side advertisement board, social media coverage, fan engagement, hospitality, match tickets, etc., BUT one lucky randomly selected Club125 partner will be proudly unveiled as the Official Main Stand Sponsor in full view of the TNT Sports cameras. Then when the club reaches the milestone of 10 businesses joining Club125 another lucky business will be selected to be sponsor of our Brand New Away Fanzone. To discover more please visit www.fullcircleconsulting.co.uk/club125 or email danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or call 07960 781170. We are now taking bookings for NEW Matchday Sponsorship/Match Ball Packages and Hospitality Why not upgrade your Matchday Experience this coming season? With the fixtures just released we are now taking bookings for NEW Matchday Sponsorship/Match Ball Packages and Hospitality. Limited availability already on many home games! The perfect way to entertain clients or spend quality time with friends, family or colleagues. #ProperFootball! https://www.fullcircleconsulting.co.uk/club125 FOLLOWED BY CRYSTAL PALACE XI AT HOME Two more away friendlies this week followed by visit of South Londoners Tuesday week Braintree Town continue their pre-season build-up with a trip to Southern League Premier Central side Leiston this coming Tuesday, 16th July, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Next Saturday, Iron travel to East London to visit Vanarama South side Hornchurch, with kick-off at 3pm. Our first home pre-season match is a week on Tuesday, 23rd July, when we welcome a Crystal Palace XI for a 7.45pm kick-off. Admission prices for this match will be reduced to just £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs and U18s. Spectators will be able to sit or stand anywhere in the ground. For all the details click on the Tickets tab above. Iron's Vanarama League fixtures start at former Premier Leaguers Braintree Town start their third spell in the top-flight on non-League football with a trip to Oldham Athletic on the opening Saturday of the season - Saturday, 10th August. Elected to the Football League in 1907, The Latics were founder members of the Premier League in 1992. However relegation to the Championship followed in 1994 and again to League One three years later. A 21 years stay in the third tier ended with relegation to League Two in 2018. This was followed by the club losing their place in the Football League with relegation to the National League in 2022 - becoming the first Premier League club to play non-League football. There is no scheduled fixture during the first mid-week of the season, so the first home matches are against Yeovil Town on Saturday, 17th August followed, three days later, by the visit of Aldershot Town on Tuesday, 20th August. Following a trip to Solihull Moors on Saturday, 24th August, Iron entertain Ebbsfleet United at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on August Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August. Christmas and New Year fixtures start with the return of the opening day fixture at home to Oldham Athletic on Saturday, 21st December, followed by a trip to Dagenham & Redbridge on Boxing Day, Thursday, 26th December and culminate with another home match against Southend United on New Year's Day, Wednesday, 1st January 2025. At Easter, Iron play the return of their Christmas and New Year holiday fixtures with a trip to Southend United on Good Friday, 18th April 2025 and a home match against Dagenham & Redbridge on Easter Monday, 21st April 2025. Braintree complete their season's fixtures at home to Rochdale on Saturday, 5th May 2025. Following promotion to non League football's top flight, Iron are exempt until the fourth and final qualifying round of this season's Emirates FA Cup - which will take place on Saturday, 12 October. In the Isuzu FA Trophy, Braintree Town are exempt until the Third Round (the last 64), with the tie scheduled for Saturday 7 December. For all the details click on the Games tab above. Inih Effiong goal secures victory Braintree Town got their pre-season fixtures off and running with a single goal victory at Vanarama North side Needham Market on Tuesday evening. Iron put out two separate sides in each half and the match provided valuable minutes for Angelo Harrop's new look squad. Braintree had to wait until the 87th minute for the winner to finally come with Inih Effiong steering the ball home from close range from a Chay Cooper cross. Iron continue their pre-season build-up with a trip to Leiston next Tuesday, 16th July, with kick-off at 7.45pm.   Local business can play a massive part in helping to grow this great club Fred from Kerland said: "I am delighted to join Club125. Angelo & the BTFC organisation have certainly punched above their weight for the last 2 seasons, but they need as much help as possible stepping up into the National League. Local business can play a massive part in helping to grow this great club." Iron to welcome League One side Stevenage in early August Braintree Town have arranged a fourth home pre-season friendly match. Iron will welcome League One side Stevenage to the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium on Friday, 2nd August, with kick-off at 7.45pm. Season ticket holders are invited to our Pre-Season Open Day this Saturday, 6th July As a thank you for supporting the Club, we will be holding an Open Day for season ticket holders to meet the players this coming Saturday, 6th July. The players will be training in the morning and the Clubhouse will be open from 12 noon.  Iron supported by Switch My Business and TakePayments Braintree Town FC are delighted to announce a sponsorship partnership between the Club and business services provider Switch My Business and TakePayments. The arrangement will see the sponsors provide business services to the club, show their logo on the front of both Home and Away shirts, and provide sponsorship of the club training facilities. Braintree Chairman Lee Harding was delighted with the new partnership. "These are exciting and challenging times for our Club as we return to the Vanarama National League. Support from national companies like Switch My Business illustrates the interest generated in the Club by our performances in the last two seasons. We welcome them as partners." Group Head of Marketing Tyrese Garvie said: "Switch My Business Group is thrilled to sponsor such an amazing football club! Our support for Braintree Town FC will enhance the fan experience massively. Not only will we be providing the club with brand-new card machines and lower transaction fees, but we'll also be doing giveaways, events and much more for the fans. We're really excited." TakePayments' Rona Warne added: "We're really excited about our partnership with Switch My Business, and sponsoring Braintree Town for the next season. We're passionate about supporting local businesses and making it easy to take card payments. Our tPOS point of sale solution offers the latest technology for the club. We understand how important local venues like this are for the community, so we're really happy to be involved!" The 60 Hour Makeover & Club 125 The 60 Hour Makeover - You have heard of DIY SOS and 60-minute makeover. Welcome to The 60 Hour Makeover - to complement the usual weekend working parties and to assist with the wide range of projects and tasks we have to make the stadium ready for pre-season and especially the season opener. There are scores of areas we need to focus on including: upgrading the club house, toilets, car park and other facilities, etc. We therefore urge fans/businesses/trades people to contact danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or call 07960 781170. Please advise the time you can dedicate, any specific areas of expertise or that you can lend a pair of hands for a few hours. We are looking for local plumbers/decorators/general maintenance/gardeners and above all else people willing to donate their time during some of the 60-hour marathon starting at 6am on Friday 14th June until 8pm Sunday 16th June - just in time to have a deserved drink & food and watch the Euros 2024 England v Serbia game in the clubhouse! We have teamed up with Braintree based, Full Circle Consulting. Led by two life long Iron fans, Martin Green and Danny Macklin to help drive forward, alongside others, the vital commercial revenue for the club, to further strengthen playing budgets and stadium facilities at The Rare Breed Meat Co Stadium. To establish and build new commercial partnerships with the businesses of Braintree district and beyond. Welcome to Club 125 - the target is an ambitious one - to have 125 businesses providing vital support to the Club. Every partnership will help further increase the playing budget available to Angelo to boost our chances of success within the National League. There is an array of tailorable benefits businesses will receive by joining Club 125. With extensive coverage via TNT Sports this presents the perfect opportunity to see your brand engage with a national (as well as local) audience. How can my business find our more or join Club 125? By connecting danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or by calling 07960 781170. Iron to visit Oxford City in early August Braintree Town have been invited to visit Oxford City for what will be their last pre-season match on Saturday, 3rd August with kick-off at 3pm. Oxford City won the South Division play-offs in May 2023 to secure promotion to the National League. The National League season commences seven days later on Saturday, 10th August. It's the last day to get your 'early bird' discount The Clubhouse will be open from 2pm-5pm this afternoon, 1st June for those of you wishing to purchase their season tickets for our return to the National League next season. The Club have agreed their match day and season tickets pricing for next season. Supporters are reminded that next season's Vanarama League will include 24 clubs and therefore 23 home league matches. As in previous seasons, season ticket holders who purchase on or before 1 June 2024 will be rewarded with five games free of charge, while an under 18 season tickets offers an incredible sixteen games free! We have extended our new initiative for season tickets for our younger supporters - Under 12 - who are provided with entry for just £40 - or less that two pounds a game! Adult and concession season tickets will allow supporters to sit or stand anywhere they choose in the Stadium. As usual, 'early bird' discounts are offered for season tickets purchased on or before Saturday 1 June 2024. To get yours, bring your form and payment with you. You can pay by card, cheque (made out to Braintree Town FC Ltd) or cash. Any queries to 01376 345617 or by e-mail to info@braintreetownfc.org.uk. Season ticket application form can be downloaded here: SEASON TICKET APPLICATION FORM. Season ticket holders are invited to our Pre-Season Open Day on Saturday, 6th July As a thank you for supporting the Club, we will be holding an Open Day for season ticket holders to meet the players on Saturday, 6th July. The players will be training in the morning and the Clubhouse will be open from 12 noon.  Two new projects at the Club Today we are launching two new projects at the Club as we gear up for life back in The Vanarama National League. We have teamed up with Braintree based, Full Circle Consulting. Led by two life long Iron fans, Martin Green and Danny Macklin to help drive forward, alongside others, the vital commercial revenue for the club, to further strengthen playing budgets and stadium facilities at The Rare Breed Meat Co Stadium. To establish and build new commercial partnerships with the businesses of Braintree district and beyond. Welcome to Club 125 - the target is an ambitious one - to have 125 businesses providing vital support to the Club. Every partnership will help further increase the playing budget available to Angelo to boost our chances of success within the National League. There is an array of tailorable benefits businesses will receive by joining Club 125. With extensive coverage via TNT Sports this presents the perfect opportunity to see your brand engage with a national (as well as local) audience. The 60 Hour Makeover - You have heard of DIY SOS and 60-minute makeover. Welcome to The 60 Hour Makeover - to complement the usual weekend working parties and to assist with the wide range of projects and tasks we have to make the stadium ready for pre-season and especially the season opener. Today we are launching a campaign for fans and, as importantly, local businesses and trades people to donate their time, expertise, and ideally materials / equipment There are scores of areas we need to focus on including: upgrading the club house, toilets, car park and other facilities, etc. We therefore urge fans / businesses / trades people to contact danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or call 07960 781170 Please advise the time you can dedicates, any specific areas of expertise or that you can lend a pair of hands for a few hours. We are looking for local plumbers / decorators / general maintenance / gardeners and above all else people willing to donate their time during some of the 60-hour marathon starting at 6am on Friday 14th June until 8pm Sunday 16th June - just in time to have a deserved drink & food and watch the Euros 2024 England v Serbia game in the clubhouse! Those businesses / trades people who can support The 60 Hour Makeover will benefit from recognition across the club website and its popular social media channels. Throughout the weekend local / regional and national media will be invited to capture the rather unique programme of works. Your support last season was simply outstanding - we now urge our fans and the community of Braintree to come together to make The Rare Bread Meat Co. Stadium to be as good as it can be for home and visiting fans and to also appeal to all on non-matchdays. We very much look forward to creating something really special together. How can I help as a fan or resident of Braintree? Firstly, if you can kindly lend a pair of hands over the weekend in June (even if for a few hours) please do let us know. So that we can co-ordinate an action plan please contact danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or call 07960 781170 advising the support you can provide. Secondly, if you are a business owner or can help influence the business you work for you will receive exclusive rewards ranging from discounted season tickets, match tickets, mascot packages, replica shirts, free drinks etc! How can my business find our more or join Club 125? If you are able to lend support with your valuable time and / or equipment and materials please do swiftly contact danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or by call 07960 781170 We are expecting huge interest in this new Club 125 Partnership approach so encourage business owners / senior decision makers to contact danny@FullCircleConsulting.co.uk or by calling 07960 781170 Tell me more about Club 125: Braintree Town FC is seeking to be more than just a number back in the National League - the club's board have enabled Angelo and his team to become full-time but we want to further strengthen the playing budget to attract the best possible talent to further support our mission for the season ahead. We will shortly be launching our new 2024/25 Commercial Brochure which will present an array of commercial opportunities to suit every marketing budget - including stand sponsorship, pitch-side TV facing advertising boards, social media sponsorship, e-newsletter content and much, much more! Our ambitious target of attracting 125 Commercial Partners into Club 125 starts today. We have outlined the headline benefits below, we can create bespoke partnership packages that are cost effective but also, in equal measure, powerful in their reach to the fans of the club, visiting fans, the local community and fellow Club 125 Business Members. * Brand exposure on match day and other club / stadium events * Support growth & prosperity of the towns historic football club * To provide innovative and engaging CSR opportunities * To engage with the fan base of the club on match days as well as via the website and social media platforms and emails * To create a new network of like-minded businesses across a variety of sectors encouraging business to business growth * To bring the current network of sponsors and partners together into a bigger, more rewarding partnership * Helping youth development and creating the future squads and fitness and team working opportunities for children * Mascot package to be used for potential online competitions * Staff match ticket discounts * Complimentary match tickets for staff * Exclusive merch to celebrate being part of Club 125. * Exclusive discounts with SCs programmes * Logo within match day programme * One social post to welcome you to Club 125 and to promote your services * Website link including company bio * Option to host networking event at your business with guest speakers * Monthly prize draw * End of season partner on pitch tournament * Thank you advert to thank all 125 in Braintree and Witham Times * Business directory to encourage fans to use Club 125 services - official Club endorsement to help you gain even more business * Hospitality discount * Supporter club membership * Exclusive club shop discount * Exclusive welcome gift * Opportunity to provide product sampling at games, subject to availability and nature of samples * Content on dedicated TV screen in club house showing all 125 club members * Logo on Club 125 stadium entrance signage Here's to the success of Club 125 & The 60 Hour Makeover - thanks in advance to our amazing fans, community and current / future commercial partners. These are exciting times for The Iron!
|   - - - Tue 15 July 2025 (7.45pm) CAMBRIDGE UNITED (HOME) Fri 25 July 2025 (7.45pm) FULHAM XI (HOME) Tue 29 July 2025 (7.45pm) COLCHESTER UNITED (HOME) - - - HOW WE STAND  
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