Braintree Rugby Club prop Paul Adridge admitted that there was a collective failing as the Black and Ambers made the worst possible start to the second half of their Essex League division one season.

Heading into the first game after the league’s spilt into top and bottom halves as division one leaders, Braintree stumbled to a 28-12 defeat at Millwall that saw them drop a place to second in the table.

Aldridge said: “Millwall deserved their victory and defended admirably throughout the game.

"We looked like a side who fail to train together and are relying on the skill of a few individuals rather than a robust game plan.

"Chris Halford, James Jones and Wes Apps all put in a decent shift but the rest of us know we could and should have done much better.”

Braintree now have to wait until February 13 for a chance to make amends.

When they do return, they will face a tough assignment as they will be taking on league leaders East London on their own turf.