Tamworth emerged victorious from a hard-fought match at the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium, securing a 2-1 win against Braintree Town in a game that came alive in the second half. While not a match for the ages, the encounter provided ample talking points, with Tamworth ultimately demonstrating greater sharpness in front of goal.
Tamworth gradually established control in the first half, their dominance culminating in Manny Duku opening the scoring in the 34th minute, assisted by Beck-Ray Enoru. Braintree struggled to find their footing and faced further disruption when George Langston replaced Kyle Smith in the 33rd minute. Aidan Francis-Clarke of Braintree received a yellow card late in the first half, adding to their woes.
Braintree returned after the interval with renewed vigour, and their efforts paid off just four minutes into the second half when Frankie Terry scored, assisted by Chay Cooper, bringing the scores level. The home side’s celebrations were short-lived, however, as Marley Marshall-Miranda was shown a yellow card in the 81st minute.
Tamworth were not to be denied the victory. In the 73rd minute, Beck-Ray Enoru, having previously provided an assist, found the net himself to restore Tamworth’s lead. The goal prompted a series of substitutions, with Tamworth introducing Jordan Ponticelli for Stefan Mols in a change to their attack. Braintree responded with a double substitution, bringing on Freddie Hockey and Fletcher Hubbard for James Vennings and Chay Cooper, respectively. Tamworth then replaced Harvey Sayer with Thomas McGlinchey in the 80th minute, aiming to solidify their lead. Late in the game, Tamworth made two further substitutions, bringing on Joe Riley and Tyler Roberts.
This result leaves Tamworth and Braintree Town level on seven points in the league table. Tamworth will be hoping to build on this win and move further up the standings, while Braintree will need to find greater consistency if they are to achieve their goals this season.