Wrexham travelled to Blackpool in a huge game at the top of League One.
Phil Parkinson made three changes from the side that drew 1-1 with Bristol Rovers as Jay Rodriguez retained his place up top despite calls for him to be dropped.
George Dobson and James McClean returned to the side, whilst Dan Scarr made a rare start in place of Eoghan O’Connell, who picked up a knock last time out.
McClean missed a glorious opportunity midway through the first half in what would have been one of the goals of the season after some sumptuous build-up play from the Red Dragons.
The skipper could not be denied in the second half however. His left-footed strike bent into the far corner, after cutting inside from the right wing.
Ollie Rathbone then doubled the lead as he was on the end of Rodriguez’s clever lay off as Wrexham tore through Blackpool in a spectacular start to the second half.
Blackpool did grab a late consolation as Robert Apter slotted past Arthur Okonkwo with a fine finish.
A magnificent result and performance from Parkinson’s side as they move two points clear of Wycombe with two games to go as the Chairboys succumbed to defeat at home to Charlton Athletic.
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Wrexham player ratings vs Blackpool
Wrexham were solid in the first half but sensational in the second as they took a huge step to Championship football, here’s how the Wrexham players rated in their League One clash with Blackpool.
Arthur Okonkwo- 7
Notable improvement in recent weeks with his distribution from his feet and picked out some excellent passes in Wrexham’s build-up. Made a superb fingertip save in the first half to keep Blackpool at bay.
Ryan Longman- 6
His usual energetic self down the right wing and delivered some quality deliveries for the forwards to attack across the front post.
Max Cleworth- 7
Made some crucial interventions in the first half with his head from a couple of set piece routines, calm and composed on the ball as always with some excellent passes through the lines.
Dan Scarr- 7
Had a nervy start on the ball in possession but dealt with the considerable threat of Ashley Fletcher well, including some vital interceptions with his head.
Lewis Brunt- 7
Solid display once again from Brunt both aerially and in the ground duels up against a tricky customer in Robert Apter on the Blackpool right.
James McClean- 9
Full of energy and endeavour down the left flank and gave Wrexham a real outlet on the switch of play. Should have scored in both halves before eventually opening the scoring with a wicked strike into the far corner.
George Dobson- 9
Outstanding display in the middle of park, worked hard as always but made things happen going forward for his side, penetrative passing was a real difference for his side.
Matty James- 8
Another solid display in front of the back four, breaking up play and giving the service to the likes of Dobson and Rathbone to create.
Ollie Rathbone- 9
Some silky touches in midfield, including one majestic piece of control from a long goal kick. Set the tone for his side at the start of the second half with driving runs from midfield into advanced areas.
Thoroughly deserved his goal with a well-timed run from deep and a composed finish into the bottom corner.
Jay Rodriguez- 8
Could not fault Rodriguez’s work rate and was pressing further forward however, should have scored with a guilt edge chance in the first half as he was played through on goal by Dobson.
Showed his class in the second half with excellent hold up play in the box and a perfectly-weighted lay off for Rathbone to finish. Earned a rousing reception from the away fans.
Sam Smith- 7
Looked much more threatening on the counter attack in the first half especially as spaces were left by the Blackpool back line, sublime flick to set up McClean for the biggest chance of the match for Wrexham.
Substitutes
Steven Fletcher- 5
Brought on with just over 15 minutes to go to replace Rodriguez, a tad fortunate not to see red following a high boot that caught the Blackpool defender in the face.
Jack Marriott – N/A
Replaced with Smith with five minutes to go but did not have any impact on the game.
Thomas O’Connor – N/A
Replaced Rathbone with seconds remaining on the clock.