Cambridge United preview (Home) 01/01/13

New Year’s day sees the reverse of the boxing day showdown when the Iron welcome promotion hopefuls Cambridge United to the Amlin Stadium in front of what is expected to be a bumper crowd to kick off the new year.

A single goal separated the two sides just six days ago in the televised game that captured an audience of over 180,000, which handed the U’s the three points necessary to maintain their top place position going into the weekend.

However, since the showdown at the Abbey stadium, Cambridge have been knocked off of top spot and replaced by Luton, who capitalised on the fact that Cambridge failed to beat Nuneaton with a 6-0 win over Kidderminster. The U’s played out a goalless draw which saw them slip away from top spot for the first time since September, now one point behind Luton with a game in hand.

The Iron will enter the game full of confidence on the back of their comfortable 2-0 win against Tamworth, where a dominant display from start to finish was produced by Alan Devonshire’s side. Unlikely goal scorer Ryan Peters opened the scoring for Braintree in the second half, netting for the first time in seven years with his first goal for the Iron. James Mulley added a second to put the game beyond doubt which moves the Iron ever closer to their 50point target for the season. The playing surface will also be sure to have its own effect on the game with some poor weather contributing to the soft surface that was played on against Tamworth at the weekend.

Hayes and Yeading programme article for Chelmsford City 14/12/2013

Today the Clarets play host to Hayes and Yeading United FC, a club born from the merger of local rivals Hayes FC and Yeading FC just six years ago. Histories were linked when respective chairmen, Derek Goodall and Phillip Spurden agreed that the only way that either side could continue to compete at the current level was to join forces.

Hayes FC originated back in 1909, when local youngsters formed a football team in which they could play for. They were initially known as Botwell mission, taking the name from a mission church that was built in honour of the founder’s grandfather. The name change came in 1929, where Hayes FC joined the Athenian league, and in their first season they reached the final of the FA amateur cup. The fact that the club played all of their games away from home right from the first qualifying round made this an even bigger achievement. The season had been a success in the league, as Hayes won the title on goal difference. However, they could not complete a double when they turned out at St James’ Park in Newcastle, in front of 32,000 fans for the cup final.

The match was lost to Wycombe Wanderers, and Hayes were forced to wait until 1957 for another chance on final day. Unfortunately for them the outcome could not be changed, and this time it was Bishops Auckland that laid claim to the silverware that proved to be just out of reach for the Middlesex club.

Meanwhile not too far from home, a similar story was beginning to unfold, as brothers Ray and Carl Gritt founded Yeading Youth club in 1960. The side started extremely well, and soon moved into the West Middlesex Combination Premier division, immediately finding success. Collecting league and cup honours along the way, Yeading FC escalated the non-league pyramid, whilst near neighbours Hayes shared some success, winning promotion to the Isthmian league in 1971/72.

As Hayes maintained their Isthmian league status throughout the 1980’s, Yeading moved into the Spartan league, going unbeaten through 1986/87. This won them promotion to the Isthmian League Division Two South and the clubs grew even closer. Yeading then became the first Middlesex side to win the FA Vase in a replay at Elland Road, Leeds, after drawing the Wembley final.

A rivalry between the two clubs emerged in 1992/93 when Yeading finally reached the heights of their neighbours in the Isthmian league. Fixtures were played between the two sides until 1996, when Hayes won promotion from the division on the final day by just one goal; a battle which included four sides right until the final whistle. Hayes maintained their place in the league until 2002, when they were finally relegated, but the two sides were kept apart as Yeading had since dropped out of the Isthmian league.

Hayes became one of the founder members of the Conference South, where they were joined by Yeading for just a few seasons until the merger was announced in 2007. Following their initial season as one club, Hayes and Yeading fought a tough battle in the playoffs in 2008/09 to reach the height of the non-league pyramid, seeing off Hampton and Richmond Borough in the final. The team were relegated back to the Conference South in 2012, and are now into their second consecutive season at this level.

The visitors arrive today occupying the final promotion playoff place after a solid start to the campaign. Impressing greatly on their travels so far, six of their nine wins have come on the road, giving Hayes and Yeading the best away record in the division this term.

The side faced mixed fortunes in the league last month, with a solo win against Whitehawk the only result that went their way.  Two losses came against Weston-Super-Mare and Ebbsfleet, leaving the promotion hopefuls looking over their shoulder as they dropped out of the top six. The side did manage to beat Bogner Regis Town in the FA trophy, before exiting the competition later in the month with a 1-0 loss against Barnet. All of these games were in front of their home crowd, a series of fixtures that balanced up a widespread October, where five out of six of their games were played away.

The current month did not start well for the visitors, their first game coming in the Middlesex Senior cup, in which they faced Harefield United. A near full strength side was fielded against the Spartan South Midlands Premier outfit, but Hayes and Yeading failed to display the dominance that their superior playing level would suggest. A 3-0 score line may have flattered the hosts, but a win was certainly deserved to send the underdogs through.

Today’s guests did manage to turn things around when they returned to the league, securing a convincing win over Tonbridge Angles last weekend. Club top scorer Jake Reid opened the scoring from the spot, keeping his cool and sending the Angels keeper the wrong way to give Hayes and Yeading the lead. A wonder goal came just before half time for Jack Mills, who rifled the ball into the back of the net from 30 yards following some lacklustre defending. The second half saw Mitchell add a third to secure a 3-0 win for his side, moving them back up to sixth place.

The game ahead looks like it could be a thriller, with the sides free scoring in previous meets. Last season, Hayes and Yeading won convincingly on home turf, knocking three past Chelmsford without reply. However, the Clarets were to have the upper hand in a goal fest back at the Melbourne Stadium, where the game finished 6-2.

City looked destined for a long afternoon when goalkeeper Stuart Searle was stretchered off after just six minutes. Without a replacement on the bench, Chelmsford were forced to rely on midfielder Anthony Cook to keep the score down as he took the number one jersey to see out his afternoon between the sticks. He did not let the side down as Chelmsford took the game to their opponents, who at 2-1 faced their own issue when they had a man sent off. Kyle Vassell ensured the win for his side in the second half, hitting home two, with Jamie Slabber adding a third to complete his hat-trick. Omer Riza completed the scoring on the day for Chelmsford, sealing the victory in a game of non-stop action.

We hope for more of the same today, and would like to take the opportunity to thank the travelling fans for their attendance in our ‘Pay what you want’ game. We wish you a safe journey home following the game this afternoon

Braintree Town Vs Tamworth match report 28/12/2013

The Iron picked up a valuable three points at the Amlin stadium, bouncing back from their Boxing Day defeat in a dominant performance against a struggling Tamworth side. The Irons flew out of the traps and applied good pressure to their opponents early on, whilst keeping the visitors quiet at the other end. Braintree were made to wait until the second half until they could find the breakthrough though, with Peters and Mulley scoring against a ten man Tamworth to provide the win for the hosts.

Dan Sparkes provided an early opportunity for the hosts when his cross was met by the head of James Mulley, whose attempt trickled into the travelling goalkeeper’s grasp. Jordan Cox made use of his upper body strength when a vacant through ball was won with a strong challenge from the forward, but could not test the goalkeeper as his shot from an awkward angle blazed over the crossbar. Markes’ glancing header fifteen minutes in looked to be creeping into the bottom corner, but trickled wide for a goal kick as the Iron continued to apply pressure.

Tamworth really struggled to get into the game in the opening half, resorting to shooting from distance twenty minutes in as they started to become frustrated. Lee Hildreth had the first real attempt for the visitors from 25 yards out, which was easily met by Hamann between the sticks.

Ryan Peters came close when he latched onto a bobbling ball in the Tamworth area, following a corner played in from Dan Sparkes. His shot was spilled by the visiting goalkeeper, who then did well to make an instinct save when Jordan Cox met the follow up. Hildreth found the referee’s book following his challenge on Cox in the middle of the park, who continued to cause problems for the visitors. Two minutes later, he could not stop himself from bringing down James Mulley who was bearing down on goal following a long ball from Hamann. The referee had no option but to show a second yellow, leaving the Lambs down to ten men thirty five minutes in as Hildreth took an early bath.

Just six minutes after returning to the pitch, Jordan Cox played the ball along the floor into a dangerous area, which Ryan Peters was quick to meet. Peters did well to direct his shot into the back of the net, handing the hosts the lead that they could not gain in the first half.

With the Iron 1-0 to the good, Cox looked to extend the lead further as he met a corner in by Sparkes, but couldn’t keep his attempt on target as his header drifted wide. Matt Paine was next to meet an Iron’s corner in, but also nodded wide as the Iron pushed on into the second half.

Peters seemed to have the taste for scoring when he picked up a loose ball 30yards out, firing from distance with a long ranger that flew well wide of Cameron Belford’s right post. But it was James Mulley that would further increase the Iron’s lead, who tore down the right hand side, cutting in and setting himself up to shoot just inside the Tamworth box. Firing hard and low across goal, a backtracking Tamworth defence could not keep the ball from crossing the line and the Iron doubled their advantage.

As Cox ran onto a loose ball 10yards out of the Tamworth area, he was brought down by a rushing Cameron Belford, who was noted into the referee’s book when he failed to win the ball. The resulting free kick could not work the goalkeeper, drifting over the bar. Alan Massey found the book late on as he fouled just outside the area, but the resulting free kick came to nothing for the visitors as Hamann plucked a deep cross out of the air. Tamworth could not test Braintree any further than this, who looked comfortable in the end to take the victory

Speaking after the game, Alan Devonshire said how happy he was with the display, and looks on towards the fixture on New Year’s Day when Cambridge United visit the Amlin stadium.

“It was a very very good team performance by the whole team so I am delighted. We are in good form that will give us a lot of confidence from today. We have got 38 points and are heading towards our target, so onwards and upwards hopefully and we’ll look forward to Wednesday’s game. Let’s get our 50points and we will take it from there and re-evaluate after that. That’s still the aim, let’s stay in this league, we have done it for 2 years, hopefully we can do it for another year and make it three out of three”

Braintree Town: Hamann, Peters, Habergham, Massey, Wells, Paine, Davis, Sparkes (Isaac), Mulley (Daley), Marks (Geohaghon), Cox

Unused Subs: McDonald, Carney

Tamworth: C.Belford, Gudger, Baker, Courtney (Woolery), Peniket, Todd, Thomas, Wright (Byfield), Chadwick, Hildreth, Keane

Unused Subs: Lindsey, D.Belford, Morgan

Referee: Colin Lymer

Assistants: Anthony Serrano and Tim Donellan

Attendance: 811

Braintree Town Vs Cambridge United match report 26/12/2013

The league leaders proved just too much for Braintree in the Boxing Day clash, with a single goal all that could separate the two sides. A Luke Donaldson strike early in the first half was enough to hand the promotion hopefuls the victory, sealing a record twelve victories in their twelve home games so far this term.

It was Dan Holman who failed to trouble the Cambridge keeper early on, with his shot from a tight angle making a statement that the visitors were there to pose a real test to the U’s record. Cunnington was also guilty of failing to work the goalkeeper soon after at the other end as his header fell comfortably into the hands of the Iron when he found himself unmarked eight yards out.

But it was less than 20minutes before Cambridge were ahead when Donaldson was allowed acres of space inside the Braintree half, and set Luke Berry through on goal who placed a nice finish to Harmann’s side.

Two minutes later, the U’s appeals for a penalty were waived way when Paine was seen to push Dunn in the back with the striker going down inside the box, where the Iron started to really look rattled.

Davis had a chance heavily deflected out for a corner as he found himself unmarked, looking to level the scoring midway through the first half for the Iron. Some nice footwork by Dan Holman made space for himself to really test Maxwell, who did well to parry the ball over the bar and maintain the U’s clean sheet, which was looking more at risk as Braintree pushed on.

The Iron were guilty of allowing a Cambridge attack to be played out unchallenged once again as the league leaders , but this time Harmann got down well to smother Luke Donaldson’s attempt.

Cunnington’s elbow on Wells earned him a yellow card as the U’s attempted to enter the break a goal to the good, which was quickly followed up by another booking from referee Craig Hicks as Mulley was cautioned for his late tackle on Donaldson.

Dean Wells will be disappointed not to have equalised when the teams returned for the second half when he pulled away from his marker to meet a corner played in along the floor, but could not keep his attempt down and rifled one over the bar.

Cunnington’s elbows were again at the centre of controversy just before the hour mark when Craig Hicks pulled back play, but an early dismissal was escaped as the Braintree appeals were waved away for a challenge that could have left the home side with ten men.

Taylor was able to shoot from 25yards out, but his shot was dealt with by Harmann, who immediately had to deal with another test from Cunnington to deny the U’s a further lead with just over quarter of an hour left to play. Harmann was quick off his line again to prevent a strike from Donalson who found himself one on one with the Iron ‘keeper thanks to a lovely through ball from deep. As pressure mounted from the home side, Harmann dealt with everything that was thrown at him proving his worth to Alan Devonshire once more.

Cox could not test the goalkeeper with 10minutes left to play with his header when he was left unchallenged in the Cambridge box, and watched his unthreatening attempt sail over the crossbar. With just two minutes remaining, the Iron’s stopper was called upon again when Sam-Yorke got his header on target, but again Harmann dealt with it comfortably.

 

Cambridge United:  Maxwell, Miller, Taylor, Coulson, Tait, Donaldson (Sam-Yorke), Champion, Arnold, Berry (Spillane), Dunk, Cunnington.

Unused Subs: Brown, Austin, Roberts

 

Braintree Town: Hamann, Wells, Paine, Massey, Habergam, Isaac (Cox), Mulley (Daley), Davis, Marks, Holman (Sparkes), Peters

Unused Subs: Geohaghon, McDonald

 

Referee: Craig Hicks

Cambridge United (Away) Preview 26/12/2013

It’s a Boxing Day bonanza for the Iron this year as they take to the road to face league leaders Cambridge United in a game that will be broadcast live on BT sport.

The mid-day kick off is the first of two matches in which the sides will meet within six days, with the reverse fixture scheduled to take place at the Amlin Stadium on New Year’s day. With the Macclesfield game called off due to a waterlogged pitch on Saturday, Alan Devonshire’s side will be itching to get back into the action and kick start their league campaign in a tight schedule of games over the festive period.

Following their 14th place finish last season, Cambridge have this year taken the division by storm and have maintained their top spot standing since September. A chink in the armour could not be found until Southport claimed victory last month, a 1-0 result the first to defeat Cambridge this term. The score line was to be replicated by Hereford United last weekend in what was a shock defeat for the league leaders, only their second of the league campaign. The U’s will be looking to maintain a 100% record at home on Thursday, as they have won all of their 11 home ties so far.

The Iron however will be hoping its third time lucky this year as their previous two Boxing Day fixtures have resulted in defeat, both against Cambridge. The last victory came on New Year’s day in 2012 where goals from Jai Reason, Sean Marks and Ben Wright sealed the points at the Amlin Stadium with the game finishing 3-2. Braintree’s last league game resulted in a 2-0 victory on the road to Chester, taking place almost three weeks ago.

Luis Suarez - best in the world?

There’s no doubt about it, Luis’ doing the business this year, and aren’t we all over the moon that he’s committed to doing so in a red shirt?  A relatively unmediated negotiation when you consider the contract size and profile of the player has provided Merseyside with a Christmas gift like no other. And what a response from Suarez, immediately providing a return on the investment put forward from the club by having a hand in all three goals in the 3-1 win over Cardiff. Ask anyone walking out of Anfield this weekend to describe Luis Suarez and whatever end they were sitting in, they would have agreed he is a world-class talent. But where does he stand when we compare him with the best?

When we think of world-class players, two names immediately spring to mind - Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Needing no introduction, these two players dominate football wherever they are mentioned. Even when surrounded by World Cup winners, Champions League winners and the most expensive player in the world, Ronaldo and Messi cast a shadow over every player that they rub shoulders with. Now football is a team sport, but when performances from a single player are week-in-week-out winning matches, it is natural that they will rise to the top and claim the majority of the glory. As Liverpool sit pretty in the league, the media will inevitably accredit the large part of this success to Suarez and his goals this season.

Going into the weekend, Suarez had netted seventeen times in eleven games; more goals scored this season than Tottenham. When you compare his stats to the world top two, he is showing he can mix it with the big boys as well. Suarez equals Ronaldo’s tally so far this season, though he has done so in four less games. Although many would think this is a better feat, the reason why Luis has had to sit these out certainly takes him down a peg or two, and is one thing that maybe stops him being top of the list of most sought after players.

Messi cannot get anywhere near Suarez in terms of scoring so far this term, having netted just eight times in the same amount of games, which is less than half the return by the ‘best player of all time’. However, it is not just goals that has prompted many to link Messi with this title, albeit subjectively. Messi’s slick playing style, his low centre of gravity, ability to run at players and retain the ball, his quick eye for a pass and ability to deliver, and to cap it off precise finishing all make the player one of the best. Could the description be used to describe Suarez? I can’t see too much that doesn’t fit. In fact the playing styles of both of the players are very similar; spectacular to see and very hard to play against.

So with a better goal per game ratio than both of the big two, and a playing style equally desirable, Suarez fits the bill. Even more impressive is the fact that he earns his crust in the Premier League. The best league in the world attracts the better players and in turn tougher opposition, making it harder to perform for any player out there on a match day. The results of this level of competition are being shown in the Champions League so far this term with all four English clubs into the knockout phases. When you look into the Spanish league there are only ever really two challenging teams, with the rest of the sides a class below. For the better players, it means that they are stretched less often, and have more opportunity to get goals and put in performances against opposition of a lower standard. Even when not playing at the top of their game, the likes of Ronaldo and Messi can put on a dominant display.

The one thing that separates the pair from our front man is the fact that they have provided their clubs with silverware. Although Suarez has had some success at Liverpool, a Premier League title or Champions League trophy is what is needed to really see him being placed up there. Pele has challenged Messi’s claim to the best player of all time with the amount of world cups that he has won. Again, it is a team sport, but when there is little to separate players in terms of performances, sometimes it comes down to who is the most successful. If things continue as they have been at Liverpool, maybe the club will find success this year. Suarez is certainly convinced of this, as although the contact he has been offered will have gone a long way to convince him to stay, plenty of other clubs would have given an equal package.

So in terms of best in the world, I think maybe still not quite, but if he continues as he is then at the end of the season it could be a debate that many more are having. For Liverpool, Suarez the best signing that Rodgers could have made this winter. Although others may suggest other players as being top signings, try taking Messi to Stoke away on a cold January evening and let’s see if he performs. Maybe he would, but Suarez is proven at this level, and the fact that he is performing as well as he is means that he is no risk at all as his performance become customary. As the rest of the world pays close interest, securing his signature is a massive statement to everyone.

Macclesfield Town preview - 21/12/2013

This weekend the Iron welcome ex-football league outfit Macclesfield Town to the Amlin stadium. Braintree turn their attentions back to the league following their FA Trophy exit last weekend at the hands of Lincoln City, and will be keen to build on their previous league win against Chester. With the Iron sitting just short of 5^th place, a good set of results in the next few days could send Alan Devonshire’s side in the playoff places over Christmas; a present that will be top his wish list this year.

The Silkmen will make the 200 mile trip from Cheshire this weekend with ambitions to prevent this from happening, but will have to try and do so without the division’s top goal scorer. Connor Jennings has netted 19 times so far this term, and has proved to be a shrewd loan signing from League Two side Scunthorpe United, but is currently suffering from an injury expected to exceed his loan period at the club. Carl Martin will also sit out the match for the visitors as he has suffered a tweaked hamstring that will keep him side-lined until the New Year.

Mid-table Macclesfield will be looking to put together their own run over the festive period as John Askey attempts to re-gain his sides league status. Last weekend saw the club bounce back from a 3-0 loss to league leaders Cambridge, taking all 3 points in their game against Salisbury City. A single goal was enough to seal the victory in this fixture. A prior 3-2 win against Brackley in the FA Cup has handed Macclesfield a 3^rd round glamour tie against Championship side Sheffield Wednesday early next year.

The weekends corresponding fixture has already been played this season, with Liam Enver-Marum’s goal the only of thing separating the two sides at the Moss Rose in a 1-0 win for Braintree. This match is a category 'B' match and ticket prices can be found by clicking the Tickets link above.

'Pay what you want' - A novel idea by Chelmsford City

So the weekend was deemed an overall success. A clean sheet maintaining the unbeaten run that has been put together by the Clarets new gaffer, and a few old faces returning alongside some unfamiliar ones too as locals took advantage of ‘paying what they want’. But what has this done for the club?

Firstly, Chelmsford must  be applauded for giving something back to the fans and attempting to prove what fun can be had at a local non-league club for those that had forgotten during a recent period of heavy thumping’s. The club has gone the extra mile by letting any fan pay whatever they choose to attend. Surely it was an event put on with no real benefit to the club other than to give something back to the loyal Clarets fans?

Although it’s heart-warming to think so, hopefully not, as a lot can be learnt from a day such as this. Everyone can see that attendances have been dwindling recently. One of the unfortunate things about football is the fact that when you are doing well, crowds arrive to cheer you on. When times are not so good, everybody finds something better to do. It happens in every city, town and village up and down the country; admittedly at different rates. But it’s not only success on the pitch that will determine the gate.

Gate prices at the Melbourne are pretty standard for the division, and looking at some of the grounds, we offer very good facilities. However, the Chelmsford City business mind should be wondering what effect the price is having on the fans. Basic economics says that every product will react differently to a change in price. Some will see a really large change in demand, some will stay exactly the same. A pay what you want game allows every fan to vote with their feet on the price of entry.

To put it simply, if the cost of entry on a standard match day is £14, and an average gate is 600, setting prices to £7 will require 1200 fans to show in order to break even. If 1300 flock through the turnstiles then perhaps a reduction in price will even lead to increased revenues? Our average attendance in August was 667. Some poor performances and cold weather sent this figure down to 545 in November if we are looking at just the league attendances. Saturday brought in 718, an increase of 31% on this figure. At a time when people are cutting back for Christmas, It not a bad attendance at all, and will have pleased everyone at the Melbourne who put the event together.

Unfortunately it probably hasn’t done enough to mean that gate prices will decrease by 30% for the rest of the season, or at all for that matter. Although it would possibly bring in a few more faces, which would also increase sales of refreshments and programmes etc, the extra 100-150 that came at the weekend were probably paying a lot less than even half of a normal price. Hopefully the turnstile attendants were asked to record the amounts so that this could be looked into in a bit more detail, as it would have been a fantastic opportunity to really review the pricing structure of the club. What with the local businesses boosting up revenues on this occasion, a costless opportunity at that.

I guess the key thing to realise is that if the boys are doing it on the pitch, within reason the price that the fans pay is irrelevant. We hope that this is what the men behind the scenes conclude anyway. Heres to 2014 and a year of success for the Clarets!

Braintree Town Vs Lincoln City FA Trophy Match report - 14/12/2013

It was Lincoln who went through to the next round in the FA Trophy in a game that could have gone either way with both sides creating winning opportunities throughout the game. The Imps ran out 3-1 winners, scoring twice in the last five minutes to take the £6,000 prize money and seal their place in the third round.

Lincoln had the initial chance as Newton tore down the left hand side sending an inviting ball across the Irons 6 yard line, which was blazed over the crossbar. An immediate response by Braintree saw a loose ball picked up and played in nicely to Davis whose shot was scooped up by the Lincoln goalkeeper.

Sheridan and Newton linked up well for the visitors in the first 10 minutes, causing problems down the Braintree right hand side, but their efforts could not find a player in a green shirt in the box. As the teams tussled early on, Peters throw into Holman deep into the Lincoln half looked to provide the Iron with another chance, but the resulting shot was charged down to ensure that the scores remained level.

It was Braintree that would take the lead when Wells lofted in a free kick from within his own half on 21 minutes, which was nodded down by Marks. Holman won at the second header to pile pressure on the visitors, who were unable to deal with the advance. Sean Marks made the most of the opportunity to put the home side ahead, giving the Iron a 1-0 lead.

Lincoln looked to have equalised just five minutes later when Chris Sharp found the back of the net from Newton’s ball in. However, the flag had been raised and offside was given which brought a halt to the travelling fan’s celebrations.

A chance for the Iron was cleared off of the line with half time looming as Isaac set up a cross for Holman. The resulting corner was played in and bobbled wide. Dixon was noted in the referee’s book just before half time for persistent fouling.

Tom Miller continually caused problems for the Irons in the second half, stepping up for every throw which he looped into the danger zone. The Braintree lead fell when Sharp met Newton’s long ball from inside his own half to level the scoring on the hour mark.

Sheridan saw yellow for the visitors at the same time as Isaac was noted in the book for the home side, which may have prompted Alan Devonshire to change things with a double substitution. Geohaghon stepped onto the field for Chez Isaac, whilst James Mulley replaced Dan Sparkes.

Mulley’s run down the right hand side allowed him to cross; an effort which was spilled by the visiting goalkeeper who reacted quickly to clear up, preventing a chance for the Iron. Marks linked up well with Habergham, whose shot was met by an outstretched Paul Farman.

Braintree made their final change of the game with Kenny Davis making way for Jordan Cox. Cox almost changed things straight away as he met a long throw into the box for the Iron, but his attempt drifted over the bar, a chance that would have seen Braintree regain the lead at this stage.

Nick Wright replaced a struggling Marlon Jackson who had gone down with cramp as Braintree continued to apply pressure. However, it was the away side who then took the lead at the death as one of Tom Miller’s throws that had been causing problems for the Iron all afternoon met the head of Luke Foster.

The visiting side sealed their place in the next round as Sharp found himself through one on one with the goalkeeper. Nick Hamann dealt with the oncoming attacker, but could only clear as far as Jake Sheridan. Sheridan’s attempt rattled the woodwork, but an unfortunate touch off of the goalkeeper put the ball into the back of the net, with the game finishing 3-1.

Attendance 410

Braintree – Hamann, Peters, Habergham, Massey, Wells, Isaac (Geohaghon), Paine, Davis (Cox), Sparkes (Mulley), Marks, Holman

Unused Subs: McDonald, Daley

Lincoln City – Farman, Miller (Rowe), Newton, Jordan, Fofana, Sheridan, Dixon, Jackson (Wright), Brown, Sharp, Foster.

Unused Subs: Fairhurst, Ward, Preece

Referee: Richard Martin

Assistants: Rob Smith and Nic Evans

Lincoln City preview 14/12/2013 - Written for Braintree Town

This weekend, Braintree will welcome Lincoln City to the Amlin Stadium in the FA Carlsberg trophy second round.

In order to qualify for this fixture, Lincoln had to overcome Conference North side Stalybridge Celtic in what turned out to be a six goal thriller at Sincil Bank. No mercy was shown to Stalybridge as the Imps displayed total domination, with Gary Simpson’s side already 3-0 ahead at the break. Irish midfielder Alan Power claimed the match ball in the second half as he completed his hat-trick; Lincoln’s fourth of the afternoon. Stalybridge did snatch a consolation in an otherwise one sided affair, but that was all it was to be as Mo Fofana squashed any thoughts of a comeback with the game finishing 5-1.

What looked to be a tougher test was set up for the Iron, who faced fellow Skrill Premier outfit Welling United, a side that had taken three points from the Amlin Stadium in the same league fixture just one month prior. Dan Holman eased the home team ahead on eighteen minutes, with the visitors holding on until 69 minutes before Dan Sparkes could meet a Kenny Davis cross to double the advantage. Substitute Jordan Cox fired home a third with three minutes remaining in what turned out to be a comfortable afternoon for Braintree.

A final sixteen place is the reward for the winner of this Saturday’s tie, a place that each side will be keen to occupy as both have struggled to build a run in this competition in recent seasons. Last year Braintree were eliminated in the first round, whilst Lincoln failed to progress past Tamworth at the same stage. They matched records again by reaching the second round in 2011/12, but one of these sides are guaranteed to go at least one better as they face each other this weekend.

The teams are yet to meet one another in the league this term, but it was Lincoln who enjoyed the fixture last season, beating the Iron 3-0 on each occasion.

Chelmsford City VS Basingstoke Town FC Visitors section 7/12/2013

Today we welcome an in form Basingstoke Town FC side to the Melbourne stadium, which turn their attention back to the league after their trip to Bournemouth FC midweek in the Hampshire Senior cup.

With the exception of a narrow 1-0 loss against Ebbsfleet United last weekend, Basingstoke arrive on a good run of form, claiming victories in all of their previous four league games. During this spell, today’s guests have scored eight times without conceding.  As we go into December, Basingstoke are well on track to a promotion challenging campaign, currently residing just outside the playoff spots in sixth place.

The ‘Stoke have never competed at National Conference level or higher, but came close to promotion in the 2011/12 season, where they eventually lost out in the playoffs. Basingstoke had started the campaign positively both in the league and cup competitions. As they battled at the top end of the table, the ‘Stoke won their FA Cup qualifying games, and drew League One Brentford in the first round. It was here that they exited the competition with a 1-0 loss, and also began to fall away from the playoff positions as they struggled in the league.

Former manager Frank Gray was finally released in February, and long-time club servant Jason Bristow took the reins with Basingstoke 12 points adrift of the playoffs. An extraordinary sequence of results saw Bristow propel the club up the table and secure the last playoff spot on the final day of the season in a tremendous turnaround of club fortunes. Basingstoke kept Chelmsford out of the playoffs by one place in a battle that went right to the wire and saw the team adhere to their motto of 'Vestigia Nulla Retrorsum', meaning ‘No stepping back’. A fairy-tale ending was not to be as they were knocked out in the semi-finals to eventual winners Dartford.

Last season was disappointing for Bristow as the team struggled, finally finishing just four points away from relegation. A fourteenth place finish in a tight bottom half provided the ‘Stoke with much to do this year in order to compete for promotion once again.

A summer of good preparation sent Basingstoke racing out of the traps as the current season commenced in August, taking twelve points from a possible fifteen. Only Weston-Super-Mare could blemish the 100% record, with a 1-0 win on their own turf; a minor derailment of the ‘Stokes promotion charge.

September proved to be a month of misery as two losses and a draw in the league were capped off with a loss in the FA Cup second qualifying round, where again Weston-Super-Mare were there to upset Basingstoke, beating them 3-1 and ending their challenge in the competition.

October was a month of mixed fortunes as Basingstoke suffered their heaviest loss of the league campaign so far, going down 4-1 away to Havant and Waterlooville. However, as the month finished evenly, they also picked up their biggest win, putting four past Dorchester Town without response. Two wins and two losses completed the month for Basingstoke, who also went through in the Hampshire Senior Cup.

Last month, two wins in the league completed four in a row, which were followed with the loss at Ebbsfleet, the most recent league result for the visitors as they make a start to busy December. The ‘Stoke will be keen to take away something from the Melbourne stadium today as they prepare for a tough run of games as we head towards Christmas. Basingstoke next play host to Whitehawk, before then entertaining top of the table Bromley at the Camrose Ground. They then travel to Bishop Stortford in what would currently be seen as a six pointer for the two sides.

Kezie Ibe returns as a familiar face to Chelmsford today, sure to be searching for goals to add to his ever increasing tally. Ibe has netted three times so far this season, returning with fond memories as he scored 35 times in a Clarets shirt in two separate stints at the club. His strike partner Manny Williams will be one to watch today as the visitors’ top goal scorer with eight so far this campaign. The former Woking and Hayes and Yeading man scored a brace in his side’s 4-0 win over Dorchester Town, but he hasn’t managed to get on the score sheet since his double.

Another to watch today is vastly experienced Neil Barrett, who will attempt to pull the strings in midfield. Barrett started his career at Chelsea, but it was in his time at Portsmouth that he made his first senior start, then going on to make twenty six league appearances for the club. Among others, he has also played for Dundee United, Livingstone and York City.

We hope for an entertaining game today between two sides that have had differing seasons so far. We would like to also take this opportunity to thank all of the visiting fans for their attendance at the Melbourne stadium, and wish you all a safe journey back this evening.

Chester FC (Away) Preview 7/12/13

This weekend, the Iron take to the road to face Skrill Premier new boys Chester FC, looking to build on Saturdays 3-0 win over Welling United in the FA trophy.

Chester, a club born following the liquidation of household name Chester City, were formed just three years ago in 2010. However, the only time that Braintree have met Chester or their predecessors was earlier this season at the Amlin stadium, when the Iron ran out 3-0 winners in a game that saw the visitors finish with just nine men.

Two Charlie Strutton goals in the space of 60seconds put Braintree in a dominant position very early on as they went two goals to the good within the opening six minutes.  Dean Wells added the third on 28 minutes to finish the scoring between the two sides before half time.

Chester will have wished the game had finished there, as their day darkened even further in the second half. The blues managed to limit the scoring to three as Braintree enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, with Chester having two men sent off in this period. Chester were forced to see out the final stages without any forward players as they made changes to implement a defensive strategy following two dismissals.

Although the home side start today amongst the relegation places, last month the Blues were beaten in just one of their five league games, which came against Nuneaton Town. Chester drew their fixtures against Aldershot, Hereford United and Luton Town, also adding a win against bottom of the table Hyde. Their month was completed last week, where they were knocked out of the FA trophy, losing 2-1 in a home draw against Barrow.

New loan signing John Rooney, younger brother of Manchester United star Wayne, will be hoping to make an appearance up front for the home side today. Rooney arrived last week on loan from league two side Bury, having also spent time at Macclesfield, Barnsley and Everton, as well as going over to America to play in the MLS.

Braintree arrive at the Deva Stadium having also won just one of their last five league games. A 1-0 win against Halifax was the only occasion that the Iron were able to take maximum points in November, although they added to the tally early on in the month in a goalless draw away to Tamworth. Losses against Luton Town, Alfreton Town and Aldershot completed the league fixtures, although a convincing 3-0 win over Welling United last week will give confidence to Alan Devonshire’s side. The win has set up an exciting second round tie next weekend, where Braintree play host to fellow Skrill Premier outfit Lincoln City.

Tickets will be available up until kick off at the Deva stadium for this weekend’s fixture. We wish all travelling fans a safe journey as they make their way to Cheshire in support of the Iron, who aim to return three points better off and push back up towards the playoff positions.

Chelmsford City VS Farnborough FC programme article 30-11-2013

Our opponent’s today travel from Hampshire in a game that was originally scheduled to take place next year. The fixture will be just the eighth occasion in which the two clubs have met, with the visitors being a very young club. Farnborough FC emerged in 2007 after their predecessors Farnborough Town faced a winding up order, reportedly owing almost £1million at the time of liquidation. A drop of two divisions and a change in club colours saw the new Farnborough club turn out in the Southern League 1 South and West division in the 2007/08 season.

At the first time of asking, Farnborough won their new division, tearing the league apart and scoring 110 goals in the process. The resulting gain in promotion to the Southern Premier League meant that Farnborough were now just one division below that of their predecessor’s final standing. Immediately the club had progressed and aimed to do so again in their second season.

The summer saw a second change in management personnel since the clubs formation along with a large turnover of players. New stands, seating and new dugouts were installed as Cherrywood Road began to take shape in a revamp all over for the club. The new season started well and 2008/09 saw ‘Boro challenge for the title. However, the large scale changes at Farnborough could not hold off big spending Corby Town, who took the automatic promotion spot. Farnborough had to settle for a playoff place, and a lacklustre performance in the playoff final against Gloucester meant that the champagne was put on ice. With back to back promotions too much to ask, another stint in the Southern Premier League beckoned.

Summer 2009 saw even more changes at the club, and yet another change in management, which this time provided Steve King an opportunity at the helm. King had enjoyed success at Lewes previous to this, taking them up the non-league pyramid to the Conference National. A number of players were added by the new manager, including some of the Farnborough Town old boys. A great run sent Farnborough to the top end of the table early on, but a tough winter of postponed fixtures and great run of results for Nuneaton Town threatened ‘Boro yet again. The yellows managed to hold on this time around and brought the title to Cherrywood Road. Just three years after the old club folded, Conference South football had returned to Farnborough.

The rise has not all been easy going as off the field Farnborough have again struggled financially. Earlier this season, the club was in very difficult times and it was looking like they were not going to be able to compete when they were hit with the demand for a £100,000 bond from the league. However, a rescue sponsorship deal with Paddy Power was secured, which demanded the club rename their stadium, and more shockingly rename their playing staff. Players of the side have this year changed their names by deed poll as part of the deal, and are all now known as former footballing greats. Each player has chosen an inspirational figure that once graced their position, so today we may well see Maradonna, Pele, Beckham and Gascoigne playing together in Chelmsford for the first time. Enough money has been raised by the deal to save the club from administration and allow them to compete in the Conference South this year.

Now rescued financially, Farnborough have begun well on the field, starting with a 1-0 win over Dover Athletic at their newly named Paddy Power Park. Though the names on the shirts may have provided some motivation early on, what followed were mixed results in September. Two wins, two draws and two losses in all competitions were recorded. This level of inconsistency has set the standard for the months that have followed. Farnborough have crashed out of both the FA Cup and FA trophy in replays of their first ties to Eastbourne Bor and Staines Town respectively. Their concentration will now be in the league as they aim to replicate the result that was recorded in October when the Clarets were on the wrong end of a 2-0 score line. For Farnborough, the win helped balance the month as they took nine points from a possible eighteen.

Going into November, ‘Boro won well at home to Weston-Super-Mare with a 4-0 score line; the second game this season in which they have netted four times. Following this, Farnborough have secured another point with a draw on the road to Maidenhead, then going on to suffer a loss at Eastleigh. With FA trophy action splitting a further two league games before the visit to Essex, Farnborough will be keen to take the points and add a positive end to another month of inconsistent results.

We thank all Farnborough fans for making the journey to Essex today and wish them a safe journey back following the game this afternoon.