Both clubs were in FA Cup action last week, The Crusaders with a commanding 3-0 win away to Gloucester City, whilst Braintree Town were held at home to a 2-2 draw by Southern Prem outfit Royston Town, Braintree won the replay on Tuesday night 2-1 but were made to hold on by a battling Royston after both teams had been reduced to ten men.

Winning six, drawing three and losing only 2 games in the league this season, leaves them on a healthy 21 points in 6th position, but only a point behind league leaders Dartford. Braintree were relegated from the National League last year having finished 3rd from bottom with a 48 point total.

Over £800,00 has been spent on the Amlin Stadium in the last 8 years, also known as the Ironmongery Direct Stadium, to get it up to regulation for the National League. They are team with an ambition to get back to National League status and will be a tough test for the Crusaders.