BRAINTREE Town are hoping their luck turns today against a team that have already had their fair share of good fortune this season.

The Iron host table-topping Newport County, who after narrowly avoiding relegation last season, have maximum points from their opening three games.

However, their hand has been massively strengthened by the arrival of new chairman Les Scadding, who won an incredible �45million on the EuroMillions.

The Welsh outfit’s budget has grown, allowing them to be more competitve in the transfer market, while a switch to the city’s rugby stadium, Rodney Parade, has seen crowds increase.

“It’s been a big lift for them, their crowds have picked up and their budget is competitive,” said Braintree assistant manager Keith Rowland.

“Fleetwood had the league wrapped up by Christmas last year pretty much and after they went up along with York, I thought this season might be easier.

“But there are more clubs going for it now, and the league is actually harder in my opinion. But we will give it a real go.”

Meanwhile, Rowland

has urged fans to be patient with the Iron’s young, new recruits, ahead of today’s clash.

Town manager Alan Devonshire drafted in a number of new faces over the summer as he looked to temper the blow of losing key men Aswad Thomas, Ben Wright and Jai Reason.

The likes of 20-year-olds Sam Habergham, Josh Dawkin and Daniel Sparkes, and 18-year-old Kaine Sheppard, have been added to the squad and have helped guide Braintree to four points from their first three games.

However, Rowland has stressed not to expect too much too soon from the new men and has called on the club’s more experienced players to take more responsibility.

“The new lads are still learning the game and we have got to be patient with them,” said Rowland.

“Obviously there is a fine line between being patient and trying to earn three points, but there will be games where they might hit the ground running and others where they are totally different.

“The players that were here last season were great but like anything, you can’t stand still.

“Most of last season’s team are still here and they have to step up to the mark and help the new.

One of those players, striker Sean Marks returns to the squad today after serving a one-match ban for a red card at Ebbsfleet.