With the restrictions easing and adapted games now on the agenda, Braintree Academy played their first competitive match since March 15th 2020. Colchester were keen to host the fixture at their new ground. Covid restrictions currently prevent scrums and mauls so the lads have had to adapt the way the create the space. With a virtually full complement of lads (27 in total) the game was split into 4 x 20 mins to give everyone an equal opportunity to play. Louie Scott broke the deadlock in the second quarter scoring on his debut, with a hard line through the gap created by the half backs. The conversion was kicked by Oli Kempster. The third quarter saw Colchester score twice in fairly quick succession but only convert one to make the score 12-7 with 20 mins to go. Braintree recovered well and pressed the Colchester lines consistently only to have a Ben Collar try disallowed. Undeterred they pushed hard again with he backs finding the space out wide, for Sona Elonge to score in the corner after turning on the after burners. The conversion was missed and Braintree ran out of time to add any further score with he game finishing in a draw. Both teams battled hard and the encounter was fast and physical. Great to see the lads back on the pitch after all this time.