Four things we learned after Wrexham slipped to a shock 1-0 defeat at home to Tranmere in League Two.
After being held to a goalless draw by Harrogate Town in midweek, Wrexham dropped points for the second time in four days as Tranmere pulled off a shock 1-0 victory.
Luke Norris scored for the visitors on eight minutes and that was all she wrote as Phil Parkinson’s men huffed and puffed but couldn’t break through a resilient Rovers defence.
This was the second consecutive home game that Wrexham had failed to score in, leaving them in second, five points behind leaders Mansfield who thrashed Bradford City 5-1.
Below, we explore four things we learned after the Reds dropped more points in the race for promotion.
Wasteful Wrexham
Wrexham’s quality in the final third was criticised on Tuesday night and it was an issue that was brought to light against Tranmere.
Parkinson’s side got into several promising positions, as usual, but their crosses from either flank were overhit or didn’t beat the first man.
In a system that uses wing-backs, the quality sent into the box has to be good and that was unfortunately lacking here.
To sum up their performance, Wrexham registered a staggering 25 shots on goal, but only four of those hit the target.
Time for Luke Bolton
Luke Bolton has found himself out of the starting XI due to the inspired form of Ryan Barnett at right wing-back.
However, Barnett wasn’t great against Harrogate in midweek and Parkinson described Bolton as a “real threat” from the bench.
Barnett’s performance wasn’t much better against Tranmere, as he misplaced 13 of his crosses and lost possession 21 times.
Perhaps Bolton now deserves to start against Grimsby next Saturday.
No Palmer, no party
Ollie Palmer has enjoyed his return to the starting XI and after failing to score against Harrogate, he was dropped for Steven Fletcher.
Many have been made aware of his impressive record for the Reds when he starts a game, continuing that trend today.
Palmer dropped to the bench and unsurprisingly, Wrexham lost.
Thomas O’Connor is back
In much brighter news, Wrexham welcomed Thomas O’Connor back for his first appearance in the side since the middle of January.
He came on for Andy Cannon in the last 10 minutes and although Wrexham lost the game, having the 24-year-old back for the run-in is crucial.
O’Connor can play in midfield or as a left centre-back, and that versatility is much-needed for Parkinson.