It was never going to be a pretty encounter with both sides struggling in the lower echelons of National League South and fearing relegation.

But full credit to the Iron, as for the second time within a few days they produced a tremendous all-round flighting performance to claim another vital three points.

The 90 minutes of play was hardly vintage football from either side but the Iron, again showing far more resilience and determination and working again and more as a team, reaped the rewards of overcoming their visitors and were deserved winners in a lively encounter that entertained the 507 crowd.

Team spirit - Braintree Town's players celebrate Louie Johnson's winner (Image: Jon Weaver)

Having taken a welcome lead on 17 minutes through Louie Johnson's good strike, the Iron looked set to be on their way to another welcome victory.

Braintree had the better of the first half and always looked like scoring more goals but poor finishing meant they failed to capitalise on their advantage.

The Iron missed that final killer ball and were unable to find the net again, to effectively kill the game off.

As a result, this led to a bit of Iron rearguard defending in the second half as Hampton and Richmond, now with five new substitutes on the field, came back strongly.

IT WASN'T PRETTY, BUT THAT'S TWO WINS IN TWO! #IronArmy | Forged in 1898 https://t.co/Zv84GHK26v

— Braintree Town FC (@braintreetownfc) October 31, 2026

The Iron led a bit of a charmed life at the back but their defence, which has not been one of the side's strong points so far this season, performed as they did against Dagenham and Redbridge earlier in the week and stood firm.

It ensured dangerous moments in the defence were dealt with, scuppering any chance of the visitors equalising.

There is certainly a new found belief in this Iron side, who are playing more as a united team rather than as individuals.

Drive - Braintree Town winger Courtney Senior in action against Hampton and Richmond (Image: Jon Weaver)

Their persistence in a never-say-die attitude display from all the players ensured they held on for a welcome victory.

The other big bonus for Braintree was the return of experienced defender Ryan Clampin after quite a lengthy injury lay-off.

The former Colchester left-back came on as a late second-half substitute was a welcome sight for Iron fans, as he has been sorely missed so far this season.

Once fully match fit, Clampin will be an invaluable member of the first team, with the added advantage of now being appointed player-coach.

Next up for the Iron is a home game against Norwich City U21s in the National League Cup on Tuesday, kick-off 7.30pm.