Braintree Town boss Alan Devonshire saluted his side for a well-deserved 3-1 victory against Blue Square Bet Premier play-off chasers Luton.

An early goal from Adam Bailey-Dennis was followed by a second-half header from Sean Marks and a late penalty by Billy Gibson.

Although Andre Gray netted a quick-fire equaliser, the Hatters – watched from the stands by new boss Paul Buckle - were powerless to prevent another defeat in front of a bumper crowd of 1,700 at the Amlin Stadium.

“We came through the game with flying colours and the score didn’t flatter us at all,” said a euphoric Devonshire, who felt his side should have had a first-half penalty for a foul on Aswad Thomas.

“We’re a young side and we’re going to have hiccups and bad days at the office.

“But when we produce performances like that it makes those days disappear quite quickly."

The Iron were quickest out of the blocks and took the lead when Pat O’Connor’s delivery from the right was headed in by Bailey-Dennis, who used his towering frame to out-jump Hatters goalkeeper Mark Tyler.

However, it proved a short-lived advantage.

Luton were level within two minutes thanks to Gray, who slotted home from close range when the ball fell kindly for him in the box.

Braintree edged back in front after 70 minutes, thanks to striker Marks.

The striker, who had earlier had a headed goal disallowed for a foul, was left unmarked and connected with a deep free-kick from Ben Wright to make it 2-1.

Gibson then netted from the spot, after Marks was fouled by Curtis Osano, to make it a memorable afternoon against the former Football League side.

Braintree are back in action on Monday afternoon when they visit Ebbsfleet United.