WREXHAM 0 BRAINTREE TOWN 1

Vanarama National League

Braintree Town finally managed to secure back-to-back wins for the first time this season as they earned a vital three Vanarama National League points by triumphing in Wales.

It was Michael Cheek’s first-half goal that proved the difference on the day as they built on a 7-0 FA Cup win against Eastbourne Borough.

Braintree named an unchanged side from the one that ran through Eastbourne seven days before and it was a side that delivered the same end result.

Wrexham had the better of the opening exchanges, including having the ball in the back of the Iron net, but John Rooney’s strike was ruled out for offside.

It was a spell when the hosts shaded the possession and only a stunning save from Iron keeper Sam Beasant kept them out in the 21st minute.

Curtis Tilt latched on to Rooney’s free-kick just six yards out but Beasant made a wonderful reaction save to tip the ball away and maintain parity.

That was set to change just seconds later, though, and it was to Braintree’s advantage.

Harry Lee’s long throw was headed on and Michael Cheek headed in at the far post to give the Iron the lead.

With their noses in front, Braintree looked to build on their lead and they went close to doubling it when Lee Barnard forced Wrexham keeper Luke Coddington into great save low down.

Wrexham were stung by falling behind and they trailed at the break, but went close to equalising just before half-time when Tilt hit the crossbar as he diverted Callum Powell’s cross from the left on to the woodwork.

After the restart, the Welsh side carried on where they had left off and tried to take advantage as Braintree looked to defend their lead.

The back of George Elokobi on the goal line stood between Wrexham and an equaliser as the hosts went close again.

That’s not to say it was all one-way traffic, though, as clear-cut chances were elusive and Barnard forced another excellent save from Coddington at the other end, while an effort from Simeon Akinola nestled in the side netting.

In the 73rd minute, the ball looked to be heading into the back of the Wrexham goal but a home foot on the goal line denied the Iron a second.

Akinola then had a golden opportunity to double the lead but his shot from the edge of the box was hit over the target as Braintree had to see out the game holding on to their slender lead.

Despite Wrexham pressing hard in the five minutes of added time at the end of the game, they managed to retain their advantage and secured a very welcome three points.

Braintree Town: Sam Beasant, Sean Clohessy, Jake Goodman, George Elokobi, Jerome Okimo, Oli Muldoon, Sam Matthews (Reece Hall-Johnson 90), Lee Barnard (Chez Isaac 83), Simeon Akinola, Harry Lee, Michael Cheek (Jack Midson 70).

Subs not used: Ian Gayle, Joe Maybanks.

Referee: Steven Rushton.