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Eastbourne Borough were engaged in a play-off tussle at this time last season; then both sides needed a result to secure a berth. This season just the hosts, ‘The Iron’, required the points; and other results to go their way, and the Essex side were to enjoy the day as they claimed all 3 points. The 2 sides will meet again as the home victory will see Boro and Braintree meet in the play-off semi-final.
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‘The Sports’ have had well publicised injury and suspension problems as the season drew to an exciting close. For this fixture the side did have players returning, Ben Austin having completed his suspension, Marc Pullan, Robbie Kember, Matt Smart and Allan Tait back to fitness. The return to strength in depth allowed Pat Harding, Paul Armstrong and Darren Baker to be rested.
The warm sunshine saw Boro dominate the 1st 45 minutes; somewhat surprising as the hosts needed a positive result. Archibald (above) saw 2 efforts in the opening 10 minutes saved by the giant Nicky Morgan and Ben Austin was unfortunate not to meet an Adam Wilde right-wing corner. Lee Burns and Chris Sullivan could have tested Lee Hook more severely but Archibald again tested Morgan after a fantastic passage of play involving 5 team mates saw the Boro No. 9 clean through on 20 minutes. ‘The Iron’ had a penalty appeal turned down, as did Boro (below), before Wilde curled a 25 yard free-kick inches wide as the half drew to a close.
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Braintree improved in the 2nd half; the managers advice no doubt ringing in their ears; and on 46 minutes the only goal of the game arrived. Sullivan was permitted to run across the bye-line and cut a ball back to Adrian Deane who’s effort was deflected past Hook into the far corner for 1-0. Boro worked hard to pull the goal back and players were introduced in an effort to change the game. Boro cleared a Braintree effort off the line before Matt Crabb chipped the ball onto the bar, the rebound headed goal ward by younger brother Nathan that was hooked clear with Morgan beaten. Matt had a last gasp effort blocked on the 18 yard box as the game drew to a close; the final whistle greeted by home jubilation.
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