Braintree Interim Boss Moseley Urges Team to Keep ‘Raising the Bar’

Having secured promotion last season by defeating Worthing in the National League South promotion final, Braintree Town’s interim boss Justin Moseley has urged the team to keep “raising the bar” following a 2-2 draw with Gateshead in their first game since the sacking of Angelo Harrop. Moseley, who serves as the goalkeeper coach and joined the Iron in the summer of 2022, witnessed his side take the lead on two occasions. However, they ultimately had to accept a single point after Chay Cooper received a red card. While Harrop guided Braintree to promotion during the previous season, the team achieved only five victories in 20 National League matches before his dismissal last week. Speaking to BBC Essex Sport, Moseley stated: “These boys owed it to the club and the old management team and they’ve gone and done it.” He further questioned, “That’s the frustrating bit, why didn’t they do it two or three weeks ago?” Moseley emphasized his expectation, adding, “Every time while I’m in temporary charge, they have to raise the bar.” Braintree’s adjusted formation proved effective. Following the match, Moseley dedicated the outcome to Harrop and the other former staff members who departed the club alongside him. Moseley further commented on his role, saying: “I’m just trying to find my feet, do what’s best for the club and I’ll do that until I’m told otherwise.” He also expressed his current state, stating, “I’m just doing what I was told to do. I’m emotionally drained, physically drained.” Describing his tactical approach, he explained, “I decided to go 4-2-3-1 and when we’re not in possession go nice and narrow and compact, then when we are in possession get the two wide boys high up (the pitch).” He concluded by sharing his message to the players: “I just said ‘go and express yourselves, play with a bit of freedom and play with a smile on your faces’.” Braintree’s upcoming schedule includes a National League Cup match against West Bromwich Albion Under-21s on Tuesday evening. This will be followed by a home FA Trophy tie versus Forest Green Rovers on Saturday.