Wrexham played Wellington Phoenix in their final game of the Wrexham Down Under Tour on Saturday, losing 1-0 in New Zealand.
Wrexham have had mixed results during their pre-season tour of Australia, with Phil Parkinson’s side beating Melbourne Victory 3-0, then losing 2-1 against Sydney FC, with around 25,000 turning up for the Wellington game.
On a positive, Wrexham ticket sales in Australia were better than expected with 37,000 fans for the game in Melbourne, followed up by more than 40,000 at a full house in Sydney.
In the end though, Wrexham suffered another defeat, and it’s one that might leave a growing number of fans fearful for the start of the Championship campaign.
Wrexham starlet Harry Ashfield gets a run out vs Wellington Phoenix
One Wrexham academy player who fans are getting excited about is Harry Ashfield. The 19-year-old has played in all three pre-season games this summer and many think he was the best player during the game against Wellington.
Going into the tour, it was expected that Ashfield would feature heavily in Australia, and so far he’s yet to disappoint.
There remains uncertainty over whether or not Wrexham will send Ashfield out on loan this summer. But with injuries already piling up, and Ashfield’s quality clear to see, Parkinson could be inclined to utilise Ashfield in the Championship next season.
What the Wrexham fans thought of Harry Ashfield vs Wellington Phoenix
Despite another poor overall performance, Ashfield stood out for praise. The Wrexham-born midfielder was lively and energetic in the heart of the pitch and fans certainly sung his praises on social media.
“Ashfield has a fire in his belly!” posted one Wrexham fan. Another added: “Mark my words: Harry Ashfield is going to be some player. Only 19 and been one of the players of pre-season.”
The praise kept on coming in for the youngster, as one fan added: “I really like Ashfield. Just sat behind the striker being a busy body. Some player there, just needs to bulk up a bit but that comes with age.”
Other comments from Wrexham fans read: “Harry Ashfield is a lovely, lovely footballer, wouldn’t think he’s only 19,” and also: “Impressed with Ashfield that first half, was the highlight for Wrexham.”
Wrexham will play two more friendlies when they return to Wales, ahead of their season opener against Southampton on August 9th.