Returning to the Vanarama National League – Braintree Town (Image: Jon Weaver)
Braintree Town have returned to the Vanarama National League for the first time since 2017 following a 4-3 victory over Worthing in the National League South promotion final.
The Iron took the lead courtesy of Dom Odusanya with 23 minutes on the clock before England C international Ollie Pearce got the hosts back on level terms with his 46th goal of the campaign in all competitions.
Even though Jack Sprong put Worthing back in front eight minutes into the second half, two Braintree goals in the space of five minutes from Aaron Blair and Charlie Wakefield saw them take the lead for the first time in the match before Danny Cashman drew level on 68 minutes.
Reggie Lambe proved to be the hero for the Iron in extra-time as he struck in the 108th minute to ensure the North Essex-based outfit sealed promotion back to step one.
FT: Worthing 3-4 Braintree Town
It's @braintreetownfc's day! ✨
They secure promotion to the National League. INCREDIBLE SCENES 💥
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/xqYpJU33Rt
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 6, 2024
After getting knocked out by Worthing in the play-off eliminator last season, Angelo Harrop’s side finished in fifth place and beat Bath City and Essex rivals Chelmsford City to set-up a trip to West Sussex for the final.
Today’s win puts an end to their six-season stay in the National League South.
