AFC Telford warned the only way is attack for Essex boys

Braintree Town head to the New Bucks Head tomorrow determined to stick to their attacking principles, despite a chronic shortage of strikers.

Current front pair Ben Wright and Watford loanee Britt Assombalonga are both suspended leaving Sean Marks as the only recognised striker in manager Alan Devonshire's squad.

But despite the depleted strikeforce and a tendency to concede late goals because of their gung-ho attitude, Devonshire, who has steered his team into mid-table on the debut season at this level, remains confident his side can cope with Telford as they chase a first League away win since September.

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"We'll be short but we will deal with it," said Devonshire. "It's only one game and then both Ben and Britt will be back from their suspensions."

The Iron head to Telford tomorrow on the back of a 3-3 draw at Lincoln on Tuesday when the Imps pulled level with a stoppage-time goal.

Braintree have also conceded late on against Bath City, Stockport County, Ebbsfleet and Darlington this term.

But Devonshire said he would rather see his team on the front foot, despite seeing his side concede at least four goals on five occasions this term.

"Our team is better attacking than defending – that is a fact and it's something we want to address," said the Braintree boss.

"We have to get it right, but I would rather be an attacking team than a defensive one.

"It's something we will have to sort out and I probably won't get the chance until the summer. We know where we have to strengthen, but we are all learning at this level.

"That includes me and (assistant manager) Keith (Rowland) as well as the players and every game throws up things that we can learn from.

"We won't be changing the way we play, though.

"We know we're not the best at defending and it is a weakness that we must deal with, but I'd rather be an attacking team."

Braintree will be without forward Jamie Guy who is missing with an ankle injury, while full back Matt Paine picked up a calf strain during the Lincoln game and his fitness will be assessed ahead of the trip to Shropshire.

See also:

• Andy Sinton wants calm as AFC Telford take action

• Ryan Brooke sees brighter times ahead for AFC Telford

• Andy Sinton delighted by AFC Telford confidence booster