Braintree Town claimed a vital 2-0 victory over Rochdale at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium, a result with significant implications at both ends of the National League table. Kyrell Lisbie’s brace, scored either side of the interval, secured the three points for Braintree.
The first half was a cautious affair, with both teams initially sizing each other up. Rochdale, holding a comfortable play-off position, sought to dictate possession, but Braintree presented a well-organised and determined defensive front. The stalemate was broken just before half-time when Kyrell Lisbie scored, giving the home side a crucial lead going into the break.
Rochdale manager Jimmy McNulty responded at half-time, introducing Liam Hogan in place of Sam Beckwith, in a tactical substitution aimed at strengthening the defence and setting the stage for a second-half fightback. However, Braintree extended their lead in the 56th minute, with Kyrell Lisbie again finding the net.
In the 63rd minute, Rochdale made a series of changes, with Ian Henderson, Ryan East, Jay Bird, and Devante Rodney all departing as Tarryn Allarakhia, Charlie Weston, Kairo Mitchell, and Aidan Barlow entered the fray. This signalled a clear tactical adjustment from McNulty, designed to inject fresh energy into their attack.
Braintree, however, remained resolute. In the 76th minute, Kyrell Lisbie, having scored both goals, was replaced by Jacob Pinnington as the home side looked to safeguard their advantage. Further substitutions followed, with Ryan Clampin making way for Francis Amartey in the 83rd minute, and Alan Judge being replaced by Cameron McPherson in added time.
The final whistle confirmed Braintree Town’s 2-0 victory. The result guarantees Braintree’s safety from relegation. Despite the defeat, Rochdale are assured of a play-off quarter-final place.