A FAST-paced display from a much-changed Grays overcome Blue Square South side Braintree, managed by former East Thurrock boss Lee Patterson.
After an even start to this FansFocus.com Essex Senior Cup tie the odds turned in Grays' favour on a 14th minute dismissal when Andy Porter was red-carded after a two-footed challenge on Charley Hearn.
To their credit Braintree kept their shape and forced the game and were with a 33rd minute penalty when Jack Haverson handled in the area. Louis Riddle slammed the spot-kick home.
Grays stepped up their game and were rewarded when Haverson made amends for his earlier error by heading Athletic level on 39 minutes.
Grays dominated after the break, with new boy Jack Obersteller working well on the left of midfield.
Gavin Grant missed three clear chances for Grays and the game looked to be heading for extra time until the 87th minute when Aaron O'Connor settled the issue with a neat left-footed strike from just outside the area.
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