Wrexham fans have had a lot to say during and after their side’s clash with Rotherham United on Saturday.
Following a triumph over Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, Wrexham were looking to build some momentum in what is the most crucial period of the season.
Phil Parkinson and co. welcomed Rotherham United to Wales, well aware that victory could see them climb back into the automatic promotion places.
However, Wrexham were also on a run of four games without a single win at home when Steve Evans’ side came to town
George Dobson is injured and, along with Andy Cannon, was absent from the matchday squad.
It was still a strong team from Parkinson, however, with Elliot Lee returning in midfield.
And as Rotherham are in the bottom half of the table, Wrexham were expected to come away with the three points.
Wrexham fans question Jay Rodriguez starting and Paul Mullin admission
It was a slow start to the match, as has become somewhat normal for Wrexham, but the home side eventually took the lead in the 48th minute.
Jay Rodriguez flicked on an effort to Sam Smith, who calmly slotted it past the Rotherham goalkeeper.
Beofre the goal, fans had been questioning why Paul Mullin wasn’t playing again and also what Rodriguez offers in his place.
One fan wrote: “Lads get Mullin back in there… he needs to go up top with Smith —.”
A second added: “Sub Rodriguez, he offers nothing up front. Another Ian Rush flop.”
Another wrote: “Lack of quality finish. Looks like the end of an era with no Mulls or Ollie in the squad yet again. Overpaid for Smith and Rodriguez… Switch the Ryans and one is better than the other.”
“Would to see Lee, Mullin and Palmer start together again in a home game. The fan base behind them would lift their game. Sorry that this trio has fallen so far out of favor that Mullin and Palmer can’t even make the bench,” a fourth wrote.
A fifth added: “Rodriguez again he’s not the player his legendary status was,” while a sixth questioned: “Rodriguez starting and Mulls not in the squad, why?”
While another stated: “Convinced Rodriguez has something in his contract saying he has to start every game. Tell me apart from his price tag what he brings to the squad over Mullin, Marriott and even Fletcher.”
Wrexham still have one problem to solve after Rotherham
Smith now has two league goals since his late January switch from Reading and is beginning to form a better understanding with his new striking partner.
Wrexham fans were criticising Rodriguez even before Saturday’s game but the former Burnley ace proved them wrong against Rotherham.
He’s a threat in the air and is now linking up very well with Smith – a partnership that should only improve going forward.
However, it remains clear that when hoofing the ball long or looking to their wing-backs to set up chances isn’t, Wrexham need to find a way to start creating more through the middle.