Braintree went into this game against the league champions with six regular starting players out injured.

The score-line – our heaviest defeat in more than a season, suggests a poor performance, in fact, outside of a mad first ten minutes when Braintree were clearly asleep, and Woodford racked up twenty points, with some scintillating back play, the game was not totally one sided. Braintree defended well for long periods, and were unlucky not to score on at least three other occasions.

Braintree had problems at the lineout, and with inexperienced and out of position backs, and a makeshift back row, it proved difficult to put enough pressure on Woodford’s backs when they attacked. Frequently the Woodford wings and full back were left with two on one, after Braintree’s backs were caught out of position. Braintree’s worst moment came when the pack allowed a Kick – off receipt to be run right through them leading to a score.

Despite these problems, Braintree did get parity for large parts of the game around the middle of each half, their best attacks coming via Thomas and Ladyman one of which resulted in a try in the corner.

On several occasions in each half quick thinking play, and aggressive attack through Thomas, Ladyman and the pack led Braintree to within a few metres of the line. Twice Braintree players were tackled into touch in the act of scoring and once the forwards knocked on inches from the line after several strong phases of driving play. Braintree turned down penalty chances in an effort to get tries.

The amber and blacks worked hard and in the pack several players played well, although injuries became a problem. Jack Dodd did well in the loose but has succumbed to a broken Scafoid, Andy Innes played well but was replaced after a head injury, as was Dan O’Connell who also had a good game. Charlie Fairchild also deserves a mention.

All in all, Woodford were a great side on top form, and Braintree deserve credit for keeping the score to this and matching them on the pitch – both teams got a standing ovation from the generous crowd.