The result moves the Hatters up to fourth in League One, capping off an intense sequence of six successive home matches in all competitions. It meant a second successive win for the Hatters against their Welsh opponents after they beat them to the League Two title last season.
Barry Delivers as County Edge Tight Contest
County made just one change from their previous league match, with Ethan Pye returning to the starting XI after suspension to replace the internationally absent Ibby Touray. The sold-out crowd provided a vibrant atmosphere as the game began with early chances for both sides. Icelandic striker Jón Daði Böðvarsson tested Ben Hinchliffe with an overhead kick in the opening minute, while Kyle Wootton responded in kind, narrowly missing the target with an acrobatic effort.
The decisive moment came in the 24th minute. After an Ollie Norwood effort was blocked, Barry unleashed a spectacular curling strike into the top-right corner, leaving Wrexham goalkeeper Callum Burton with no chance. It was Barry’s 12th goal in all competitions, further cementing his status as County’s top scorer this season.
County maintained their momentum with a series of close calls. Callum Connolly’s dipping delivery required a sharp save from Burton, who later denied a double effort from Will Collar and Fraser Horsfall. As the first half drew to a close, Ethan Pye and Ryan Rydel both came close to extending the lead, but County entered the break with a slender advantage.
Resilient Defending Secures the Points
The second half mirrored the first with end-to-end action. Pye and Wootton both came close for County, while Böðvarsson and Elliot Lee narrowly missed equalising for the visitors. Burton continued to impress in Wrexham’s goal, keeping out well-struck efforts from Barry and other County attackers.
Hinchliffe was equally vital for the hosts, making key saves to deny Lee’s corners and Ryan Barnett’s deliveries. As Wrexham pressed for a late equaliser, Hinchliffe smothered a low drive from Barnett to preserve the lead.
Substitutes Tanto Olaofe and Jayden Fevrier had opportunities to seal the game in stoppage time, but Burton’s heroics kept the scoreline unchanged. County’s defensive resolve ultimately ensured all three points in a hard-fought contest.
Writer’s View
Stockport County’s victory over high-flying Wrexham highlights their growing confidence and ability to grind out results. Louie Barry’s stunning goal was the standout moment in a game filled with high-quality saves and resolute defending. If they maintain this form, the Hatters are well-positioned for a serious play-off push.
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