Braintree hit four to claim another pre-season victory

Pre-season friendly

Two goals in either half saw Braintree Town win a third pre-season game as they triumphed 4-2 at Bostik League division north side AFC Sudbury.

The Iron had to come from behind to get their win, though, as Sudbury took the lead in the 20th minute after they capitalised on an under-hit back pass and Panashe Mundawarara scored to put them ahead.

However, the Iron soon recovered their composure and drew level on 35 minutes when striker Dan Thompson got clear of the Sudbury back line and chipped the keeper with a lovely shot.

Having got on level terms, they didn’t have to wait long to go ahead as, within 60 seconds, a powerful shot from Mohammed Bettamer flew into the bottom corner of the home net.

It ensured Braintree held a slender lead at half-time, but, having got their noses in front, they stretched clear in the second half.

The third goal came on 48 minutes when Reece Grant latched on to a neat ball forward from Irnti Rapai and showed precision in drilling it into the back of the net.

Mahrez Bettache went close with an effort that went over the bar, but Braintree tails were now up and it became 4-1 just before the hour mark.

Bettamer was on target this time when he headed home at the near post from a well-delivered corner by Luke Allen.

It was a comfortable lead, but Braintree found it trimmed back after the hosts capitalised on another slip in the Iron defence and Ollie Gravett scored to make it 4-2.

However, that was as close as the Suffolk side got to their visitors and the game ended with Braintree holding on to their two-goal margin.