JOHN White praised Braintree Town's 'grit and determination' after they struck late to beat Tonbridge Angels 1-0 and register a fifth straight win, writes DAVID WARD.
Substitute Jayden Davies' 85th-minute strike secured the Iron an impressive victory at the Rare Breed Meat Company Stadium and extended their unbeaten in National League South to seven games.
It took Braintree until five minutes from the end of an absorbing end-to-end game to score a fantastic last-gasp goal, much to the delight of the majority of the 703 fans.
Iron assistant boss White, who stood in for the absent holidaying boss Angelo Harrop, admitted it wasn't pretty at times but was pleased to get the win.
He said: "I've played in many games like this where you simply have to keep your concentration, keep your composure and keep battling to the final whistle to get what you deserved.
"I'm really pleased with all the players involved who showed that grit and determination and never-say-die attitude and commitment that you need in these kind of games.
"Yes, it wasn't pretty at times and you know that when you're in the thick of it all and to be honest Tonbridge are a very good side as we know and they caused us a few problems at times.
"But you have to work really hard in such games as I know from my own experience so full marks to everyone who just kept going, pushing hard and I always thought we could snatch a goal and win at the end.
"The defence again was outstanding and particularly keeper Jack Sims who made timely saves when it mattered and was a worthy winner of the man of the match award afterwards.
"We know that ever game at this level is really hard and although we are now up to seventh and in a play-off place there's still a long way to go and lots of hard work ahead."
The Iron's next two away games are at in-form Worthing on Saturday and Bath City next Tuesday.
Both matches will be a stern test and they will be without striker Alfie Pavey, who starts a three-match suspension on Saturday after being sent off against Torquay United, last weekend.
But new midfield signing Dominic Odusanga, signed from Welling United for an undisclosed fee, will be available to play after serving a one-match ban.
The Iron's tremendous performance against the Angels in this game means it's five wins in a row and they are now unbeaten in seven games.
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