Ben Embery breathed a sigh of relief as a Steve Goode injury-time strike ended Braintree's recent nightmare run.

Goode - who was drafted in because of the injury crisis at Cressing Road - rose highest at the far post six minutes into stoppage time last night to convert Mark Jones' deep left-wing cross.

Braintree boss Embery said: "It was a great result for us. After losing four straight games it was a real boost.

"Like winning, losing can become a habit but a bad one. I'm glad that we've come through this patch. The race is on now for that top six place."

Braintree had a re-shuffled pack on display due to injury or suspension which meant a more defensive mentality.

Their ability to counter-attack paid dividends when ,midway through the first half, Robbie Reinelt put them ahead.

Braintree continued to push forward but were caught on the back foot in the second period when Boreham equalised, punishing some lacklustre defending.

Embery added: "I was impressed with how Boreham played. They try to play football no matter what. It encourages a good game. It suits our style.

"We had to play defensively and soak up pressure. It was a gusty display and I'm very happy for my team. I had settled for a point.

"Me and my staff were yelling at Mark Jones to play out time in the corner. All of a sudden he swung over a tremendous cross and Steve did really well to reach it."

Goode had come on with ten minutes to go, replacing Nicky Simpson because of a hamstring problem.

Embery continued: "We don't know how bad Nicky is. We'll assess it during the week. We hope it won't be too serious."

Braintree are away to Basingstoke at the weekend.

In the Eastern Floodlit League, Braintree drew 1-1 with Halstead last night.

Published Wednesday, March 20, 2002