Braintree's away woes continued on Saturday as they slumped to a disappointing defeat against a side newly promoted from the Eastern Counties League.
The black and ambers paid for giving away a host of penalties in the first half, leaving them with too much to do after the break.
Their composure wasn't helped by the attitude of an over-zealous referee whose attitude led to Braintree club president John Leech quitting as a touch judge after the break.
Leech handed over his flag after the ref over-ruled him following the Suffolk side's solitary try early in the second half.
The Braintree man indicated the Beccles scorer had touched the corner flag before going over - only to be told he was not permitted to make such a decision because of his club allegiances.
A clearly appalled Leech then relinquished his duties and handed over to a stand-in.
Beccles went in 12-3 up at half-time after they successfully converted four of nearly 10 penalties conceded by the visitors, mainly for offside and handling in the ruck.
Stand-off Craig Willis' solitary penalty was all Tree had to show as their away day woes continued.
After Beccles stretched their lead to 17-3 following the disputed try the black and ambers hit back.
Replacement Matt Wadforth had an immediate impact, taking part in a slick backs move which led to Josh Winwood going over after collecting a kick through from centre Stuart Lewis.
Willis kicked the conversion but Tree were unable to claw back the 10-point deficit.
Published Thursday October 17, 2002
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