Wrexham have arrived in Sydney and are preparing for their second game of the pre-season tour down under.
Phil Parkinson has warned his Wrexham squad that they face another tough battle against Sydney after being impressed with the ‘athleticism’ of the Australian sides.
Wrexham were comfortable in their 3-0 victory over Melbourne Victory and Parkinson used the unusual tactic of playing two different teams in each half.
He could be about to repeat the trick as he looks to give players vital minutes ahead of the new season. Wrexham Insider looks at three things to look out for in the clash against Sydney FC.
Three things to watch out for in Wrexham’s clash with Sydney FC
The Red Dragons take on Sydney FC on Tuesday 15 July with kick off at 10:30 am (GMT). The game will take place at the Allianz Stadium.
With the club’s first Championship campaign for 43 years on the horizon, fans will be keeping a keen eye on a number of factors heading into the challenge.
Ryan Hardie was substituted against Melbourne with an injury concern
Ryan Hardie impressed Wrexham fans on his debut and capped an excellent display with his first goal for the club, pouncing on a low cross from Ryan Barnett.
After the game, Parkinson stated that the striker was ‘dizzy’ after being forced off with a clash of heads just minutes before the full time whistle.
Supporters will be excited to catch a further glimpse at their new signing but may have to be patient depending on whether Wrexham deem it a risk to play the 28-year-old.
Hardie will be keen to continue the momentum built from the first game but his absence may give another opportunity for Ollie Palmer to impress.
Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez could make first appearances
January signings Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez were absent from Wrexham’s first clash in Melbourne and supporters will be eager to see the strike duo back in action.
The two were trusted as Parkinson’s front two during the second half of last season and between them, helped fire the Red Dragons to promotion.
With the introduction of Hardie, it now presents an intriguing dilemma for Parkinson as to who he now chooses up top, with partnerships crucial to his decision.
Pre-season friendlies such as the clash with Sydney, present the perfect opportunity for players to get the feel of each other’s game.
Harry Ashfield to continue to impress fans and Phil Parkinson
Harry Ashfield caught the eye of Wrexham fans with his dynamic performance in the second half of the Melbourne Victory match.
Ashfield played with Hardie up top but was the player that dropped deep and helped link the play with some intelligent passes.
The 18-year-old has already showed a versatility and maturity in a Wrexham shirt and will be hoping for another chance to showcase his talents in Sydney.
It would give Parkinson another option for the upcoming campaign if Ashfield can prove he is ready for first-team football, following in the footsteps of fellow academy graduate Max Cleworth.
If not, the youngster will be hoping to put himself in the shop window and convince teams to take a chance on him for a loan spell.