Redbridge should be optimistic of the season ahead after they put up a good fight againgst Braintree Town of the Blue Square South. Braintree are of course managed by former Aveley and Barkingside manager Rod Stringer who is highly thought of at both clubs.

The Motormen started the game well with both Anton Agdomar and Simon Peddie having efforts on goal early on. Agdomar was particulary unlucky to see his header hit the bar.

Thankfully for the hosts they did take the lead not long after through new recruit Tom Stephen, who finished of a good move at the back post by slotting home past the keeper. It was well reward for a good move which was supported by good runs from Agdomar and Leon Diaczuk.

Braintree though fought back and scored a nice goal on the halfhour to equalise when midfielder George Burns slotted past Dave McCartney in goal. It was a well taken goal.

Both teams made changes afer half time but it was Redbridge who went ahead six minutes into the half. Good play in midfield enabled Alex Read the chance to knock in his 8th goal of the preseason with a nice finish at the back post with his right foot.

Sub Chuck Duru linked up well with Julian Edwards late on to wrap the game up but Edwards back at the club for another spell narrowly fired over the bar. Had it gone in, the win would have put the hosts out of Braintree's reach.

Braintree though did not give up three minutes from time grabbed their second equaliser of the night when Jamie Guy headed home a Kenny Davis cross. Overall it was a good workout for Dave Ross and Kris Taylor's team and the club seem to moving in the right direction on and off the pitch. It should be a good season ahead.

Redbridge: Dave McCartney, Lee Matson, Steve Good, Simon Peddie, Julian Ashby, Greg Thompson, Tommy Stephen, Mark Nougher, Leon Diaczuk, Anton Agdomar, Alex Read

I caught up with Joint Managers Dave Ross and Kris Taylor after the game to find out how pre-season has gone so far and about the season coming up. To download and hear the interview go to http://www.mediafire.com/?pxclga8iah4bjb0.

To have a look at some pictures from the match go to the Pre-Season 2010 Album on our website with the pictures from this match being near the start of that album: https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/redbridge/?section=videos_photos_view&album_id=60536.