The Iron upset the apple cart by beating fourth-placed Daggers in a thoroughly entertaining National League South game.

It was no fluke either, as Braintree's complete transformation from the manner of their appalling 6-0 defeat at Farnham on Saturday into a formidable, workmanlike outfit was impressive.

It was fully deserved and three vital points was certainly a shock for Iron fans in the 731 crowd, who witnessed the game.

POST MATCH Hear from Steve Pitt after an impressive three points at home https://t.co/uNwRbQT9FK #IronArmy | Forged in 1898 https://t.co/6Nx2ob38Io

— Braintree Town FC (@braintreetownfc) October 28, 2026

The victory moves Braintree out of the relegation zone and ends a nightmare seven-match losing run.

It is just the confidence booster that was needed, both on and off the field.

Braintree's players battled for every ball, ran their socks off and showed so much grit and determination than seen this season and they played better as a team, too.

Manager Steve Pitt, clearly relieved at the sudden turnaround of fortunes, made three changes in his starting line-up.

Vital win - Alex Bolovan in action for Braintree Town against Dagenham and Redbridge (Image: Jon Weaver)

They included the debut of 25 year-old French-born attacker Amine Sassi, who was most recently at Maldon & Tiptree and had an inspired game.

Braintree were a totally different team from their last disastrous outing and they took a deserved lead in the 28th minute through Louie Johnson and then had chances to have extended their lead.

The second half started in the same frame of mind by the Iron players and they certainly could have added at least a couple of goals before the vastly more experienced visitors grabbed themselves a lifeline on 80 minutes with an equaliser.

This changed the direction of the game with Dagenham throwing everything at the Iron defence.

Sealing the winner and dominating the midfield, your supporters Man of the Match this evening was Alex Bolovan! Alex Bolovan is sponsored by Football X #IronArmy | Forged in 1898 https://t.co/tPsBGR7uql

— Braintree Town FC (@braintreetownfc) October 28, 2026

They had the odd narrow escape with a couple of goal-line clearances but weathered the storm and then grabbed a surprise winner on 90 minutes.

Alex Bolovan swiftly led a Iron counter attack and fired the ball home into the net, prompting joyous celebrations by the home players and fans.

Braintree nervously held on during stoppage time to ensure they won a game that they didn't deserved to lose.

Hopefully, it is a turning point and they can carry on with this vastly-improved all-round display on Saturday when they entertain another relegation-threatened side Hampton & Richmond, kick-off 3pm.