Eastleigh’s play-off hopes were dented after a 1-0 defeat at lowly Braintree.
Marley Marshall-Miranda’s third-minute goal condemned the visitors to a first loss in five matches.
John Akinde’s effort was blocked but the ball fell to Marshall-Miranda, whose first-time shot crashed in off the crossbar.
Braintree finished the match with 10 men after Ryan Clampin was shown a second yellow card eight minutes from time.
