Wrexham wing-back, James McClean was able to show his best against Blackburn in spite of the loss which knocked his side out of the FA Cup.
It felt like it was destined to be a night to remember for Wrexham as they travelled to face Blackburn Rovers.
This feeling only got stronger as Andy Cannon scored with less than 20 minutes on the clock to put the Reds one up.
It all went a bit arie after that as Sammie Szmodics scored twice and Sam Gallagher capitalised on an Arthur Okonkwo error. Moving into the second half things didn’t get much better as Sondre Tronstad smashed home a loose ball.
This is how the game finished in the end and Phil Parkinson’s journey in the cup was brought to an abrupt end.
Despite being knocked out of the FA Cup in the fourth round for the second year in a row, there were many positives. The performances of multiple players caught the eye but we have singled out James McClean for the Reds.
James McClean shines v Blackburn
It may not be a night to remember for the travelling Wrexham fans in the sense that they hoped for. With that being said their side certainly made a good account of themselves.
Despite Wrexham having good periods of the game with the ball, Blackburn were able to show their Championship quality at times.
McClean was certainly able to show his class and experience with a good performance down the left for the Reds. Even though his side conceded four he was looking good going forward and in a defensive sense.
According to FotMob, the Irishman was good defensively as he made the most successful tackles on the pitch. With four challenges made and an 80% success rate, he was able to keep Tyrece Dolan quiet. He was also able to make one interception and six recoveries, all while being dribbled past just once.
He was also great at winning duels as he won the most out of every player on the pitch. Nine duels out of a possible 15 is a great return.
Going forward McClean was also proficient. It must be said that he had an excellent chance early on which was superbly saved by Aynsley Pears for Rovers.
As well as that he completed the most dribbles of the match with two while putting six crosses into the box.
Despite the heavy defeat, McClean was once again able to show his best. A frustrating night but a silver lining for the wingback.