Braintree Town

Braintree Town FC, nicknamed ‘The Iron,’ is a proud football club rooted in the heart of Essex. Established in 1898, the club has a successful history in non-league football, winning multiple honours and enjoying cup runs. Braintree has experienced notable highs, including several seasons in the National League and missing out on promotion to the Football League in 2016. Currently competing in the National League, the club continue to defy the odds and battle against relegation back to the National League South. The fan base, though modest in size, is fiercely loyal and deeply connected to the local community, creating an electric atmosphere at Cressing Road.

For the latest Braintree Town news, visit The Real EFL.

Braintree Town Updates

As of March 2025, Braintree Town is competing in the National League, the fifth tier of the footballing pyramid in England. The Iron had competed in the National League South for the five seasons before this one and are still fighting against relegation back to that level. However, they currently have a gap between themselves and the bottom four. In February, the club suffered a damaging loss to relegation-threatened Wealdstone but bounced back with a mini unbeaten league run including a defeat of AFC Fylde who is one of the teams hunting the Iron down at the bottom of the table.

Braintree Town Transfer News & Rumours

Between July 2024 and March 2025, Braintree Town strengthened their squad with several key signings. Defender Jamal Fyfield joined in June 2024, bringing valuable experience from his tenure at Boreham Wood. In May 2024, left-back Ryan Clampin signed after departing Eastleigh, adding depth to the defence. Striker Inih Effiong arrived in June 2024, aiming to bolster the attacking options but has since left the club to join Woking.

Additionally, Colchester United's young defender Frankie Terry joined on loan for the 2024–25 season along with his former Colchester teammate John Akinde who has already had 10 goal involvements this season. Midfielder Reggie Lambe, who played a pivotal role in Braintree's promotion, departed for Needham Market in September 2024 as goalkeeper Jack Sims moved on to fellow National League side Sutton United.

Braintree Town Signings

Braintree Town have been active in the market for the 2024-25 season, boosting their squad by adding players with Football League experience and seasoned non-league campaigners. Gibraltar international Louie Annesley joined the club from Dundalk and Madrid-born Marley Marshall-Miranda was another player to swap Colchester for Braintree, following John Akinde and Chay Cooper.

Player	Age	Nationality	Left	Fee	Contract Duration
Louie Annesley	24	Gibraltar	Dundalk Premier Division	Free	1 Year
John Akinde	35	England	Colchester United League Two	Free	1 Year
Chay Cooper	22	England	Colchester United League Two	Free	N/A
Marley Marshall-Miranda	21	England	Colchester United League Two	Free	N/A
Inih Effiong	33	England	Dagenham & Redbridge National League	Free	2 Years
Lucas	33	Brazil	Maidstone United National League South	Free	N/A
Ryan Clampin	25	England	Eastleigh National League	Free	N/A
Jamal Fyfield	35	England	Boreham Wood National League South	Free	N/A
Callum Powell	28	England	Southend United National League	Free	1 Year
Rio Davidson-Phipps	27	England	FC Erith Town England	Free	1 Year
James Vennings	24	England	Bromley League Two	Free	N/A
Finlay Barnes	23	England	York City National League	Free	N/A
George Langston	21	England	Eastleigh  National League	Free	N/A
Aidan Francis-Clarke	20	England	Luton Town U21 England	Free	N/A
Kyrell Lisbie	20	England	Cray Valley PM England	Free	N/A
Henry Gray	19	New Zealand	Ipswich Town U21 England	Loan	Season
Christie Ward	20	England	Wycombe Wanderers League One	Loan	N/A
Paris Lock	19	England	AFC Wimbledon League Two	Loan	N/A
Matt Robinson	30	England	Woking National League	Loan	N/A
Alan Judge	36	Ireland	Without Club	Free	N/A
Jermaine Francis	22	Grenada	Barnet National League	Loan	N/A
Kyreece Lisbie	21	England	Colchester United League Two	Loan	N/A
Finley Wilkinson	21	England	Barnet National League	Loan	N/A
Jacob Pinnington	20	England	Luton Town U21 England	Loan	N/A
Frankie Terry	20	England	Colchester United League Two	Loan	N/A

Braintree Town Key Matches Of The Season

Braintree Town's 2024–2025 season has featured several notable matches. After a challenging start with a 3–0 defeat to Oldham Athletic on August 10, 2024, they secured their first victory by defeating Aldershot Town 2–1 on August 20. A significant 2–0 home win against Forest Green Rovers on February 15, 2025, showcased their defensive solidity. More recently, on March 8, 2025, they achieved a 2–0 away victory over AFC Fylde.

These upcoming matches are pivotal for Braintree Town's aspirations in the National League, offering opportunities to climb the league standings and secure a favourable position.

Visit Betiton

Braintree Town Key Achievements

Braintree Town, founded in 1898, has a proud history within non-league football. The club has won multiple titles over the years, most notably the Conference South (now National League South) in the 2010–11 season, which earned them promotion to the National League for the first time.

They enjoyed a six-season spell at that level, achieving a remarkable third-place finish in 2015–16 and reaching the play-off semi-finals. The Iron also won the Isthmian League Premier Division in 2005–06. In 2017–18, they secured promotion back to the National League via the play-offs.

Known for punching above their weight, Braintree has consistently competed strongly despite a modest budget, earning a reputation as a well-organised and determined side.

National League South (Conference South) Champions – 2010–11

Isthmian League Premier Division Champions – 2005–06

Eastern Counties League Champions – 1983–84

Essex Senior Cup Winners – 1995-96, 2022-23

Promotion via National League South Play-offs – 2017–18

Braintree Town Current Squad

Braintree Town’s current squad blends experienced leaders and emerging talent, with a solid defence, energetic midfield, and powerful forwards, forming a competitive and resilient unit in the National League.

Braintree Town Attackers

The experienced John Akinde leads the Braintree attack alongside young players like Chay Cooper and Jermaine Francis. Akinde provides the physical presence alongside the pace of the younger players, such as top scorer Kyrell Lisbie.

Braintree Town Midfielders

Former Republic of Ireland international Alan Judge is a winter transfer window arrival and has added experience to an otherwise young-looking midfield. Judge is joined by on-loan Ipswich Town man Emmanuel Okunowo and Matt Robinson who is at the club temporarily from Woking.

Braintree Town Defenders

Gibraltar defender Louie Annesley has chipped in with two goals and an assist this season. Ryan Clampin and George Langston joined the Iron from Eastleigh in the summer, with Langston adding four assists for his team.

Braintree Town Goalkeepers

New Zealander Henry Gray is the current first-choice keeper for Braintree, having joined on loan from Ipswich Town in January following the departure of Lucas to Ebbsfleet United.

Braintree Town Manager & Coaching Staff

Steve Pitt - Manager

Steve Pitt was appointed in December 2024 following a stint as part of the club’s backroom staff. Known for his pragmatic yet progressive coaching style, Pitt emphasizes defensive organization, high work rate, and team cohesion, aiming to grind out results while gradually introducing attacking fluidity.

His career has been rooted in non-league football, both as a coach and in support roles, gaining a reputation for his ability to steady struggling sides and motivate players. Since taking over, Pitt has guided Braintree to improved form, pulling them away from relegation danger with disciplined performances and a focus on clean sheets.

Karl Duguid - Assistant Manager

Karl Duguid brings valuable experience and leadership to the club’s coaching setup. A former professional with over 700 appearances, primarily at Colchester United and Plymouth Argyle, Duguid transitioned into coaching after his playing career. He first joined Braintree in a coaching capacity before taking on the assistant manager role, where he supports team development and tactical planning.

Known for his passionate, player-focused coaching style, Duguid emphasizes discipline, fitness, and adaptability. His experience in both League and non-league football enables him to mentor younger players and foster a competitive, hardworking environment within the squad.

Phil Coleman - Coach

Phil Coleman brings a wealth of experience to the club’s technical staff. A former professional defender, Coleman enjoyed a solid playing career with clubs such as Millwall, Colchester United, and Wrexham during the 1980s and 1990s. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and management roles across various non-league sides, building a reputation for his tactical awareness and defensive expertise.

Coleman joined Braintree Town to support the development of the squad, particularly focusing on defensive organization and match preparation. His knowledge and calm presence have been valuable assets in the club’s push for improved performance.

Braintree Town Former Managers & Key Coaches

Braintree Town has had several notable managers who have shaped the club’s history. Alan Devonshire is widely regarded as the most successful, leading the club to the National League for the first time in 2011 and securing multiple mid-table finishes despite limited resources.

Danny Cowley took Braintree to the National League playoffs in 2016 before departing for Lincoln City. Hakan Hayrettin later guided the club to another play-off finish in 2018. More recently, Angelo Harrop led the club to promotion contention in the National League South. These managers played key roles in Braintree’s rise and stability in non-league football.

• Steve Pitt (2024 - Present): Steve Pitt was appointed Braintree Town manager on December 5, 2024, succeeding Angelo Harrop. Previously, Pitt served as assistant manager under Harrop from June 2022 to December 2023.
• Angelo Harrop (2022 - 2024): Appointed on May 22, 2022, Angelo Harrop led Braintree Town to consecutive National League South play-off campaigns, culminating in promotion after a 4-3 victory over Worthing in the 2023-24 season. He also secured the Essex Senior Cup in his first season. However, following a series of poor results, Harrop departed the club on November 27, 2024. 
• Ryan Maxwell (2020 - 2022): Was appointed Braintree Town manager on November 16, 2020, during a difficult period for the club. He worked with a limited budget but struggled to achieve consistent results. After finishing 20th in the National League South in 2021-22, he left on May 22, 2022, making way for Angelo Harrop.
• George Borg (2019 - 2020): Took charge of just 22 matches and managed only two victories during the difficult Covid period. Borg was relieved of his duties after seven straight defeats at the start of the 2020-21 campaign.

Braintree Town Legends

Kenny Davis (2010 - 2016)

Kenny was a central midfielder who played for Braintree Town from 2010 to 2016, making 239 appearances and scoring 36 goals. As club captain, he led the team to their highest league finish, third in the National League, during the 2015–16 season, reaching the play-off semi-finals. Davis earned two caps for the England C national team during his tenure at Braintree. 

Sean Marks (2008 - 2016)

He played a pivotal role at Braintree Town from 2008 to 2016, making over 300 appearances and scoring 25 goals in the 2010–11 season, leading to their promotion to the National League. He continued to be instrumental in the club’s success, contributing to their highest league finish, third place, in the 2015–16 season.

Matt Paine (2010 - 2016)

Matt served as a defender for Braintree Town between 2010 and 2016. Paine represented Braintree close to 200 times and he notably participated in the FA Cup during the 2012 – 2013 season. After leaving Braintree Town, Paine continued his football career with stints at Boreham Wood (2016 – 2017) and Billericay Town (2017 – 2018).

Braintree Town Team Metrics & Performance

Braintree Town competes in the National League, the fifth tier of English football. As of March 21st 2025, the team had played 38 matches, achieving 12 wins, nine draws, and 17 defeats. They have scored 42 goals, averaging 1.3 goals per match, and conceded 50 goals, averaging 1.5 goals per match. The team kept 11 clean sheets during the season.

Historically, Braintree Town has experienced fluctuating league positions. In the 2015 – 2016 season, they achieved their highest finish, securing third place in the National League and reaching the play-off semi-finals. However, they faced relegation to the National League South in the 2018 – 2019 season. They earned promotion back to the National League for the 2024 – 2025 season.

For the current 2024 – 2025 season, Braintree Town has shown a modest improvement in their attacking performance. They have scored an average of 1.08 goals per game since the season’s start. Notably, in their last eight league matches, their scoring rate has increased to 1.50 goals per game, indicating an upward trend in offensive productivity.

Given this recent form, there is cautious optimism that Braintree Town can improve upon their previous season’s performance. However, the team’s defensive record remains a concern, and addressing this aspect will be crucial for climbing the league table. Consistency in both attack and defence will be key to achieving a higher league position by the season’s end.

Watch Braintree Town's Latest Highlights

Braintree Town Pitch & Amenities

Cressing Road, officially known as the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium for sponsorship reasons, is the home of Braintree Town Football Club. Located in Braintree, Essex, the ground has a capacity of approximately 4,222, including around 550 seated spaces.

The stadium has been the club’s home since its formation in 1898, making it a central part of Braintree Town’s history and identity. It features covered terracing, a seated main stand, clubhouse facilities, and hospitality areas, offering a traditional non-league matchday experience.

Though modest compared to larger venues, Cressing Road has hosted key fixtures, including National League play-off matches, and is known for its close-knit atmosphere. Over the years, it has seen incremental upgrades to meet league requirements, reflecting the club’s ambitions.

The stadium holds sentimental and historic value, acting as the heart of the local football community and a symbol of the Iron’s enduring presence in English non-league football.

Braintree Town Fan Base & Support

Braintree Town FC supporters can connect through the Braintree Town FC supporters Facebook group, an independent community for fans to discuss the club and related topics.  Additionally, the Braintree Town Football Club (Official Club) Facebook group serves as a platform for official club updates and fan interactions.

These groups foster engagement among fans, providing spaces to share news, opinions, and support for the team.

Braintree Town Rivalries & Notable Matches

Chelmsford City is Braintree Town's most notable rival due to its geographical proximity and regular meetings between the pair. One of the most important games between the two in recent memory is the 2024 National League South playoff semi-final. The dramatic encounter saw Braintree take a two-goal lead only to be pegged back by two goals in injury time.

Jayden Davis grabbed an extra-time winner to send The Iron into the playoff final, a match they would again win in dramatic fashion and earn promotion to the National League. As well as Chelmsford, Braintree have a historical rivalry with Colchester United due to their proximity but their meetings have been restricted to friendlies for many years.

Some other, lesser, rivalries are held with teams like Dagenham and Redbridge, Dover Athletic and Ebbsfleet United due to often vital league encounters between them.

Braintree Town Facts

Braintree Town History

Founded in 1898 as Manor Works, Braintree Town Football Club has long embodied the spirit of its Essex roots. Initially formed by ironworks employees, the club’s early identity was deeply tied to the local industrial community—a working-class pride that continues to shape its culture.

Renamed Braintree & Crittall Athletic and eventually Braintree Town, the club has overcome financial challenges and league instability to carve out a respected place in non-league football. Major milestones include winning the Isthmian League Premier Division in 2005–06 and achieving promotion to the Conference National (now National League) in 2011, marking the club’s highest-ever league position.

Under Danny Cowley, Braintree defied expectations, finishing third in the National League in 2015–16, reaching the playoff semi-finals—a transformative moment cementing their reputation as giant killers.

The club’s fiercest rivalry is with Chelmsford City, producing passionate derby days that energize supporters. Iconic clashes, like the 2024 playoff semi final win remain central to the fan experience. These matches fuel local pride and forge a strong sense of identity among supporters.

Braintree Town also plays a vital community role, supporting youth development, local schools, and charity events. Outreach programs help integrate the club into the town’s social fabric, reflecting its roots in community service and inclusion.

In recent years, the club has navigated the challenges of non-league football with resilience. Managerial changes—including the return of Alan Devonshire—have shaped new eras of ambition. Financial constraints and relegations tested the club’s mettle, but playoff pushes and cup runs have kept momentum alive.

A renewed focus on sustainable growth and fan engagement signals a club grounded in tradition but looking forward. Braintree Town remains a symbol of local resilience and pride—an underdog with grit, heart, and a community-first ethos that continues to define its journey.

Braintree Town Social Media Links

Staying connected with Braintree Town through social media is a great way for fans to get the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content from the Rare Breed Meat Co. Stadium.

Stay up to date by following the Iron on X @braintreetownfc and by visiting the club's official website www.braintreetownfc.org.uk

Braintree Town Outlook & Forecast

Braintree Town FC, currently positioned 17th in the National League, has experienced a season marked by both challenges and resilience. Following their promotion to the National League for the 2024/25 season, the club has been focused on establishing itself in the fifth tier of English football. 

After a shaky start to their first season back in the division, a strong home form has propelled them up to 17th in the table on 38 points.

Recent performances indicate a positive trend, with the team extending their unbeaten run to four matches following a 2-0 away victory at AFC Fylde. This resurgence suggests that Braintree Town is adapting to the league’s demands and could potentially secure a mid-table finish if their form continues.

The club has been proactive in strengthening its squad to compete effectively at this level. Notable acquisitions include Marley Marshall-Miranda from Colchester, George Langston from Eastleigh, and Finlay Barnes from York City.

These signings reflect a strategic focus on bolstering both defensive and attacking options. Additionally, the loan signing of goalkeeper Henry Gray from Ipswich U21 aims to provide stability between the posts. 

Braintree Town’s strategy centres on solidifying their National League status by enhancing squad depth and focusing on defensive solidity. The team’s recent form, characterized by improved defensive performances and timely goal-scoring, indicates a tactical emphasis on organization and resilience.

Maintaining this approach will be crucial as they navigate the remainder of the season, aiming to secure their position and build a foundation for future success.

In summary, Braintree Town FC’s concerted efforts in player acquisitions and tactical adjustments have positioned them to potentially surpass initial expectations this season. Continued focus on these areas will be vital to ensure their establishment in the National League and to lay the groundwork for future ambitions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braintree Town

How much would it cost to buy Braintree Town Football Club?

Braintree Town Football Club is not listed for sale and the exact cost of the club is not publicly stated. The value of a football club depends on various factors, including its assets, debts, league status, and commercial potential. For a more accurate valuation,

Who owns Braintree Town?

Braintree Town Football Club is currently owned and chaired by Lee Harding. He has been a long-serving figure at the club, acting as Chairman and playing a significant role in the club’s day-to-day operations and strategic decisions.

Is Braintree Town a big club?

Braintree Town FC would generally not be considered a big club in the wider context of English football — but in non-league football terms, it’s a respected and well-established club with a solid history.

Where to watch Braintree Town Football Club

You can watch Braintree Town home matches at the Rare Breed Meats Co. Stadium in Braintree, Essex. Matches are also occasionally streamed online, and highlights can often be found on the club’s official website and social media channels.