Leyton Orient fought back from a goal down to secure a vital 2-1 victory over promotion rivals Wrexham at the STōK Racecourse.
The result might be vital in strengthening their push for a League One play-off spot and denting the hosts’ hopes of automatic promotion.
Rathbone’s Early Strike Cancelled Out by Orient Comeback
Wrexham started brightly, taking the lead through Ollie Rathbone, who expertly finished off a James McClean cross. The goal ignited the home crowd, with Wrexham looking to close the gap on second-placed Wycombe Wanderers.
However, Leyton Orient showed their resilience. Charlie Kelman found space in the box to slot home Darren Pratley’s assist, drawing the visitors level and shifting the momentum. Jamie Donley then capitalised on a set-piece opportunity, turning in a corner to complete the comeback.
Despite being reduced to 10 men late on when Pratley received a second yellow card, Orient held firm. Their defensive grit and determination in the final stages ensured they left North Wales with all three points.
Promotion Race Tightens as Orient Close In
The win keeps Leyton Orient in sixth place, just two points behind Huddersfield Town, who occupy the final automatic promotion spot. For Wrexham, the loss means they remain third, now five points adrift of Wycombe Wanderers and with work to do to keep their automatic promotion hopes alive.
Wrexham Boss Phil Parkinson:
“We got the goal, we’ve had other chances to score again, the ball just wouldn’t drop for us in and around the box.
“The goal we conceded was disappointing. We gave Kelman too much time in the box. After that, we lost our composure and never really got to grips with the game in the second half. Credit to Leyton Orient for their performance.”
Leyton Orient Boss Richie Wellens:
“What we showed is quality, it was two great finishes and then the desire from several people at the end to put their bodies on the line and block shots.
“Sometimes you need heart, desire and grit, and the last 10 minutes, we were really good at that. They threw everything at us, but we stood up to the challenge.”
Writer’s View
This result could prove pivotal in the League One promotion race. Leyton Orient demonstrated both skill and resolve, combining clinical finishing with defensive steel to see out the win despite being a man down. For Wrexham, it was a missed opportunity. While they showed glimpses of quality, their inability to maintain control in the second half raises questions about their readiness for automatic promotion.
