Wrexham took on Huddersfield Town in a crucial League One clash at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Phil Parkinson named an unchanged team from the Wrexham side that drew 0-0 with Bolton Wanderers at the Racecourse Ground.
Huddersfield had the ball in the net early in the first half but was disallowed following a tight offside call. Ryan Longman then a had goal ruled out for Wrexham after a challenge on the Huddersfield keeper was deemed to be a foul.
Dion Charles should have put the home side ahead just before the break has he raced clean through on goal but blazed over Arthur Okonkwo’s goal.
Substitute Steven Fletcher pounced on a loose ball in the penalty area following a header from Sam Smith that was parried by the Huddersfield keeper.
Parkinson’s side held on for three crucial points and their fourth away victory in a row in the league, something that will boost their promotion push.
Wrexham player ratings vs Huddersfield Town
Wrexham secured a vital three points in their quest for League One promotion, here’s how the players rated in their clash with Huddersfield Town.
Arthur Okonkwo- 6
Another clean sheet for Okonkwo in the Wrexham goal and his consistency is improving. His concentration levels were good throughout the night and he did what little he had to do with real authority and composure.
Max Cleworth- 5
Struggled in the first half with his distribution down the right flank and gave the ball away sloppily on a number of occasions. Stuck to his task well in the second half but was booked stopping a Huddersfield break away.
Eoghan O’Connell- 8
Superb display at the heart of the Wrexham defence, O’Connell was everywhere throwing his body in the way of shots and dominated in the air against a lively Huddersfield front line.
Thomas O’Connor- 8
Like O’Connell a brilliant resolute display at the back from O’Connor. He was strong in the duels both on the ground and in the air and often showed real composure on the ball.
Ryan Longman- 5
Not the same threat down the right as he was against Bolton Wanderers but did his best to support the struggling Cleworth in defence. Should have scored done better with a chance just before half time on his weaker left foot.
Sebastian Revan- 7
Probably Wrexham’s biggest attacking threat as he continued his excellent recent form down the left flank. Revan worked tirelessly in his defensive duties and provided an excellent pass in which Longman should have converted just before half time.
Matty James- 8
This was the type of game that James can excel in and show his worth to the Wrexham midfield. The experienced midfielder screened in front of the back four to great effect, using his intelligence to break up play and frustrate the home side.
George Dobson- 6
Worked hard and was neat and tidy in possession in a usual George Dobson performance in the first half. Came off within five minutes of the second half with a knock.
Ollie Rathbone- 9
When Wrexham needed something special, once again Ollie Rathbone was the man to step up. He produced the one real moment of quality in the game as his delicious cross found Smith and his header caused a scramble that led to the only goal of the game.
His pressing and tenacity was a real driving force for his side and Rathbone continues to go from strength to strength in a Wrexham shirt.
Sam Smith- 4
The combination with Rodriguez is not working for the new signing. Smith is becoming an increasingly isolated figure up top for the Red Dragons and even when he is given some service, his first touch and decision making was poor.
Jay Rodriguez- 5
Tried to drop deep and pick up the ball but Wrexham need Rodriguez to play further forward and give them a target to hit in possession. An experienced, international player should be realising that.
Substitutes
Elliot Lee- 6
Came on for the injured Dobson very early in the second half and instantly made an impact as the Red Dragons looked more penetrative on the ball. Lucky late on as he was dispossessed but Okonkwo bailed him out.
Ryan Barnett- 6
Introduced for Longman with 20 minutes remaining and worked hard down the right flank.
Steven Fletcher- 8
Yet another vital contribution from the experienced Wrexham striker as he pounced on a loose ball in the area to fire home after Smith missed his original header. Super sub strikes again.
Jack Marriott- N/A
Introduced for Smith late on but was unable to make a real impact on the game.