Braintree made it three wins in a row after a tremendous 2-1 victory over second-placed Bedford in Ryman League division one.

But the Iron had to show their mettle after going behind in just the second minute at Cressing Road.

The home side settled down soon after and they eventually got their reward when Danny Stanley converted an exquisite pass from wing-back Mark Jones in the 41st minute.

Braintree were further boosted early in the second period when a Bedford player was dismissed for an off-the-ball scuffle with Bradley Quinton. The Iron eventually broke down the visitors' resolve when captain Nicky Smith curled home a free-kick.

Manager Ben Embery said: "It was a fair result and I thought it was outstanding the way we bounced back after conceding an early goal.

"We seem to raise our games against the better sides in the division."

Witham have firmly established themselves in the top half of Ryman League division three after a 1-0 win over Croydon Athletic at Spa Road.

Veteran defender Alan Vincent scored the winner in the 76th minute after the visiting keeper dropped a cross.

Witham boss Tony Kinsella said: "We didn't play that great but Vincent was a colussus. He now starts a three-match ban so it was a good way to sign off."

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