Glen Howes was both hero and villian as Basingstoke Town recorded their first Ryman League Premier Division victory in seven matches with a battling 2-1 success against Braintree Town at the Camrose Ground.

It was an outstanding three points, for 'Stoke were reduced to ten men after 39 minutes when Howes was sent off by referee Bull.

Howes, who had been booked earlier for dissent, tangled with Dean Parrett on the touchline and was dismissed by a referee who handed out six yellow cards in total.

Braintree took the lead on 22 minutes after Steve Hemmings was penalised for a push in the back and Gavin Cowen sent 'keeper Scott Tarr the wrong way from the spot-kick.

It took 'Stoke just five minutes to draw level, a fine volley from Howes beating 'keeper Chris Morden.