The J. Davidson Stadium was the stage for a hard-fought English National League encounter as Altrincham clinched a 2-1 victory over Braintree Town. The match, characterised by its attacking intent and decisive moments, ultimately swung in favour of the home side, despite a spirited effort from the visitors.
Altrincham began the brighter of the two sides, and their early pressure was rewarded. In the eighth minute, Declan Howe found the back of the net, giving the Robins a crucial early lead. This goal set the tone for Altrincham, who looked to press their advantage, while Braintree Town were left to regroup.
The visitors made an early tactical adjustment, bringing on Goran Babic for Elliot Thorpe in the 42nd minute, signalling a shift in midfield approach as they sought to gain more control. However, Altrincham managed to double their lead just moments after the interval. In the 46th minute, an own goal by Mason Terry doubled Altrincham’s advantage, leaving Braintree with a significant deficit.
Braintree Town responded to the setback with a double substitution in the 56th minute, introducing John Akinde and Manny Omrore. The change had an immediate impact, as Akinde provided the assist for Taylan Harris to pull a goal back in the 66th minute, injecting renewed hope into the away side’s challenge. The introduction of Sahid Kamara in the 57th minute further bolstered Braintree’s midfield as they pushed for an equaliser.
The closing stages of the match saw a tense battle unfold. Altrincham, keen to protect their lead, made a tactical substitution in the 70th minute, bringing on Kahrel Reddin for Oliver Crankshaw. Braintree continued to press, with John Akinde earning a yellow card for a foul in the 92nd minute, underscoring the intensity of the closing moments. Isaac Marriott also received a yellow card for Altrincham in the 86th minute, as the game became increasingly physical. Goran Babic was shown a late yellow card for Braintree in the 94th minute, highlighting the pressure the visitors were under.
Despite Braintree’s late push and a flurry of substitutions aimed at finding an equaliser, Altrincham held firm to secure all three points. The victory sees Altrincham move up to 15th in the league table with 37 points from 33 games, while Braintree Town remain in 21st place with 30 points, highlighting the importance of this result for both sides in their respective league campaigns.
