AFC Fylde welcomed Braintree Town to Mill Farm for an English National League encounter, with the visitors seeking to build on their recent form. The match got off to a lively start, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. However, it was Braintree Town who struck first, with Jermaine Francis scoring in the 36th minute after being assisted by Aidan Francis-Clarke. The goal gave the visitors a 1-0 lead going into halftime.
The first half also saw yellow cards handed out to Ethan Mitchell and Harry Davis of AFC Fylde, as well as Jermaine Francis of Braintree Town, all for fouls. The cautions set the tone for a physically contested match.
At halftime, AFC Fylde made a substitution, bringing on Ashley Boatswain for Charlie Jolley in a tactical move. The change aimed to inject fresh energy into the home team’s attack, but Braintree Town’s defence held firm.
In the 61st minute, Braintree Town doubled their lead through Kyrell Lisbie, who was assisted by Tom Blackwell. The goal put the visitors in a commanding position, and they began to control the tempo of the game.
AFC Fylde made further substitutions in an attempt to change their fortunes, introducing Owen Evans, Will Hugill, and Jonathan Ustabasi into the game. However, their efforts were hindered when Jonathan Ustabasi received a second yellow card in the 80th minute for violent conduct, reducing the home team to 10 men.
Braintree Town also made changes, bringing on Chay Cooper, James Vennings, Alan Judge, Matt Robinson, and Emmanuel Okunowo in the second half. The substitutions helped the visitors maintain their shape and see out the game.
The final whistle blew with Braintree Town securing a 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Jermaine Francis and Kyrell Lisbie. The win marked a significant result for the visitors, who continued their push up the English National League table. AFC Fylde, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back from the defeat in their upcoming fixtures.