At Staines on Saturday there were signs that the tide might turn for Braintree, after heavy early pressure from the home side had been successfully repelled and Iron then began to dictate the rest of the first half.

Several good scoring chances were created and the Staines goal had a number of narrow escapes before John Devine made the breakthrough in the 44th minute by solidly converting a corner kick from Nicky Smith.

Despite continuing to have the best of the play after the break Braintree seldom seemed likely to increase their lead.

Their main reliance was on the defence being able to carry them through so it was a blow when Staines netted an equaliser in the 70th minute when Udal coming up to head in Glynn's corner.

The home team were boosted by this success and Iron had their work cut out to avoid further trouble in the closing stages.

Braintree Town: Cheesewright, Knight, Tanner (Betson), Gunn, Bishop, Milton, Smith, Vincent, Devine, Kendall (Rayner) and Rippingale.

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