In a nail-biting League One clash, Wrexham AFC edged past Mansfield Town 1-0 at The Racecourse, with Ryan Barnett’s sixth-minute goal proving decisive.
The victory keeps Wrexham in third place, just a point behind leaders Wycombe Wanderers and second-placed Birmingham City, who were set to play later in the day.
Manager Phil Parkinson‘s tactical tweaks, including three changes from last weekend’s FA Cup loss to Harrogate, paid off as Wrexham showed both grit and composure.
Wrexham’s Early Strike Puts Pressure on Mansfield
Parkinson’s lineup changes included bringing Dan Scarr back into central defence and starting James McClean at left wing-back, allowing the veteran to continue his ever-present record in the league. Elliot Lee was also preferred in midfield, replacing Ollie Rathbone.
Wrexham nearly conceded early when Will Evans intercepted a poor pass from Mansfield’s George Dobson, forcing a sharp save from Arthur Okonkwo. Yet, just minutes later, it was Wrexham who seized the advantage. Barnett collected the ball outside the box, skillfully dribbled past a defender, and sent a precise shot into the bottom corner, igniting cheers across The Racecourse.
The remainder of the first half saw chances for both sides. Mansfield’s Lee Gregory missed the target with a header from Aaron Lewis’s free-kick, while an injury to Mansfield’s goalkeeper, Christy Pym, saw him replaced by Scott Flinders. Despite Mansfield pressing forward, Wrexham’s defence, bolstered by Okonkwo’s confident saves, held firm.
Wrexham had opportunities to extend their lead in the second half, including a promising cross from Barnett to Paul Mullin, who was unable to connect cleanly on a scissor kick. Elliot Lee also came close, with his attempt narrowly clearing the bar. Mansfield pushed hard, but their final efforts were thwarted by Okonkwo’s strong goalkeeping and missed chances, such as Ben Waine’s late header that flew wide.
As the clock wound down, Wrexham came closest to doubling their lead when Ollie Palmer’s header was impressively saved by Flinders, who then managed to deny Palmer’s follow-up from close range. The narrow victory not only keeps Wrexham in the title hunt but also highlights their resilience against a well-matched rival.
Writer’s View
Wrexham’s performance against Mansfield demonstrates a balance of defensive solidity and timely aggression. With Barnett’s sharp early strike and Okonkwo’s reliable presence in goal, Wrexham showed they could manage pressure in crucial moments. As the season progresses, maintaining this form will be essential for their push at the top of the League One table.
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