Braintree 0 Guiseley 1: Lions are lifted in time for their screen test

Manager Mark Bower said: “I’m really pleased to get the win after a long journey and now we move on to our TV game against Lincoln.”

After draws at Torquay and Dover Athletic, Guiseley went one better to lift confidence for Friday’s home game on BT Sport against an Imps side who are just two points above them in 12th.

Guiseley kept a lot of possession early on but struggled to create and Braintree had the first significant opportunity when Michael Cheek was found in the area but the striker’s header hit the outside of the post.

Guiseley then created their best chance of the first 45 minutes with winger Wayne Brooksby hitting the post after cutting into the area.

The second half was much like the first with the visitors controlling possession but being unable to break down the tough home side defence.

Braintree were denied their best chance of the second half when Guiseley goalkeeper Steven Drench denied Akinola with a fingertip save.

But just when it looked like the match would end goalless, Guiseley striker Craddock was brought on as the final substitution for the side.

This proved to be an inspired choice as the former Portsmouth and Oxford City man was found at the back post and was able to force the ball over the line for the winner.

Braintree Town FC: Norris, Clerima, Habergham, Phillips, Paine, Isaac (Miles 70), Davis, Sparkes (Edgar 76), Woodyard, Akinola, Cheek (Cox 58). Unused substitutes: Brundle, Marks.

Guiseley: Drench, Toulson, Lowe, Lockwood, R Atkinson, Lawlor, Brooksby, D Boshell (Thompson 73), L Dickinson (Craddock 77), Maris (N Boshell 64), Hatfield. Unused substitutes: D Atkinson, Boyes.

Referee: A Bromley (Plymouth).

Man of the match: Steve Drench.