Braintree Town secure dominant pre-season win over Colchester U21s
Braintree Town delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Colchester United U21s in their latest pre-season friendly at Cressing Road. The Iron dominated from the first whistle, scoring three times in the opening 45 minutes to set up a comprehensive win. This result comes as Braintree look to rebuild after a challenging 2025 season, finishing 23rd in the National League with just 36 points (8W-12D-26L) and a goal difference of -38 (38 scored, 76 conceded).
What happened in the match?
Braintree took control early, with Reuben Swann opening the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful low strike from 25 yards. Jamie Bennett doubled the lead in the 21st minute, slotting home after Finn Adams drove into the area. Anisius Lewis added a third in first-half stoppage time, bundling in a cross from close range. The Iron sealed the win late on with a fourth goal, looped in by one of their trialists.
Colchester struggled to find rhythm, with their best chance coming from Kien Connolly, whose tame shot went wide. The U’s made several changes at half-time, including bringing on trialists, but Braintree remained the sharper side, with Lewis hitting the crossbar in the second half.
Why this matters for Braintree
This pre-season win will boost confidence for Braintree as they prepare for the new National League campaign. After a difficult 2025 season, where they lost their last five matches (LLLLL) and finished 72 points behind leaders York, the Iron will be looking to improve under new management. The performance against Colchester’s young side showed promise, particularly in attack, where Swann and Lewis impressed.
What comes next?
Braintree will continue their pre-season preparations with further friendlies before the National League season kicks off. Colchester United U21s, meanwhile, will look to regroup and improve ahead of their next pre-season fixture. The Iron’s focus will now shift to fine-tuning their squad and tactics ahead of the new season.
