By John Troup

Braintree Rugby Club’s chairman of selectors David Gilder hopes the side’s successful return to action can provide them with a platform to battle for a top-two spot in the second half of the London League division three Essex season.

Gilder was pleased to see the Black and Ambers beat local rivals Maldon 32-22 last weekend in the first game back after their Christmas break as they closed to within two points of second-placed Millwall in the table.

“Over the past few seasons we have come to expect a real battle with this Maldon side and our games really have the feel of a proper local derby,” said Gilder.

“They tend to be very strong up front but a bit lacking out wide so we know that we can use good clean ball to punish them when given space.

“This was a good win for us with the Christmas break hopefully now out of the system and we find ourselves still third in the league in a perfect position to push for second over the next couple of games.”

Head coach Brian Joslin was happy with the effort put in by the Braintree squad and the way they stood up to a tough test from Maldon.

He added: “This was another really tough game against Maldon season and I was really pleased with the win.

“Maldon are a very good side with a very strong set of forwards who pushed us hard all the way through this fixture.

“I was pleased with whole squad’s efforts today and it was great to see Dan Johnston back playing in the forwards after injury.

“Wes Apps and Matt Pickles both had strong games in the forwards and in the backs Joss Adams, Keelan Joslin and Dan Olley were all outstanding.”

Braintree are without a game this weekend but return to action on January 27 when they travel to Canvey Island.