Phil Parkinson believes Wrexham were due a slice of luck after finally being awarded just their second penalty of the season in a crucial win over promotion rivals Stockport County.
The League One clash saw Jay Rodriguez score his first goal for the club after his initial spot-kick was saved, only to fire in the rebound and seal a vital 1-0 victory.
It was only the second time this campaign the Reds had been given a chance from 12 yards, following Steven Fletcher’s Boxing Day goal against Blackpool. The lack of penalty decisions has been a source of frustration for Parkinson, who felt his team were denied a clear foul earlier in the game when Sam Smith was brought down in the area.
Controversy
Wrexham’s penalty against Stockport was highly controversial due to the circumstances leading up to the handball. Stockport defender Ibou Touray was penalised after the ball struck his arm, but Stockport argued that Touray only handled the ball because he had been pushed in the back by Wrexham’s James McClean.
The push seemingly caused Touray to lose balance, leading to the accidental handball. Stockport manager Dave Challinor was furious with the decision, stating in his post-match comments on the club’s official YouTube channel that he “couldn’t believe what he was seeing” at the STōK Cae Ras.
Rodriguez Steps Up in Mullin’s Absence
After referee Simon Mather consulted with his assistant, a penalty was awarded for the handball. With regular taker Paul Mullin out of the squad and both Fletcher and Elliot Lee on the bench, it was Rodriguez who stepped up to take the responsibility.
“Jay was the designated penalty taker and I am absolutely delighted for him, he’s followed up and finished,” said the Reds’ boss.
The 35-year-old striker, signed from Burnley in January, has featured in all 10 league games since arriving and Parkinson believes the goal was just reward for his relentless effort.
“Jay has had a long period of coming off the bench at Burnley and we can sense he’s getting fitter and stronger all the time,” he added. “His physical output is the highest on the pitch which is extraordinary really.”
Rodriguez’s winner was met with an emphatic response from his teammates, underlining his growing influence at the club as they push for back-to-back promotions.
Writer’s view
Wrexham’s penalty tally may be shockingly low, but their ability to capitalise when finally given a chance could prove crucial. Rodriguez’s persistence is paying off, and Parkinson’s side are hitting form at a vital moment. If they continue to match grit with moments of quality like this, they’ll remain right in the thick of the League One promotion race.
