By John Troup

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BRAINTREE Rugby Club joint coach David Gilder believes their team can give opposing sides defensive headaches this season after seeing them open their London League division three Essex campaign with a win.

The Black and Ambers showed their mettle by coming from behind to secure a 29-20 win against a solid Campion side in their season’s opener and Gilder feels there are good signs that Braintree can have a strong campaign.

Gilder, whose team have returned to London League rugby from the Essex League this year, said: “It was a great result and a fantastic feeling to get points on the board from our first game at London Three level.

“With us having gone up and Campion having come down we were expecting a tough test and our new look front row was under pressure at the start of the game.

“They were a good side and played some really good rugby.

“I’m sure they travelled back very disappointed not to have taken more from the game.

“We pressured well in defence and were dangerous going forward from our own ball, turn over ball and especially kick chase.

“The forwards dug deep and I felt they got better as the game went on and I’m sure they will get stronger going forward, especially as we have more tight five forwards to come back.

“The backs put in a superb performance and with the quality and depth available I am sure we will be troubling defences all season.”

Braintree are back at Robbs Wood on Saturday when they are due to entertain Clacton.