IT wasn't the game Braintree Rugby Club expected it to be, but the Black and Ambers were able to take positives from a friendly match against Writtle Wanderers.

Writtle had pulled out of the scheduled Essex League division 1B fixture against leaders Braintree, but sent a side to Robbs Wood to contest a friendly game instead.

Braintree rested some first-team players, but still won 31-26 and chairman of selectors David Gilder said it had been good to see others stepping up.

He said: “It was a rather strange day following the midweek white flag from Writtle.

“We rested most of our first team and they fielded what seemed to us something akin to their normal side, but I’m sure our players, at home with their feet up, will feel suitably recharged for next week.

“It was good to see some different players step up to the challenge and play in what turned out to be a close and competitive game, when it would have been very one-sided with a full strength side out.”

Braintree return to Essex 1B action on Saturday when Harwich & Dovercourt are the visitors to Robbs Wood (kick-off 2pm).