Wrexham were desperate to get back to winning ways against Mansfield Town today, and they got what they came for with a 2-1 victory.
The Red Dragons travelled to Mansfield’s Field Mill stadium to take on the League One midtable side, with Phil Parkinson making some big changes to the Wrexham lineup for the game.
Wrexham were ahead within two minutes after a freak own goal from Mansfield’s Calum MacDonald after a dangerous cross from Ollie Rathbone.
However, the home side pulled level and MacDonald redeemed himself just 14 minutes later with a neat finish at the back post, this time at the right end of the pitch.
Wrexham started the second half strong, though, and after a few close-calls, they were ahead once more thanks to a thunderous strike from Max Cleworth just before the hour-mark.
Parkinson’s men held firm from then on, taking the game to Mansfield and not allowing their opponents a sniff of the ball to claim all three points.
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Wrexham player ratings from 2-1 win vs Mansfield Town
Wrexham had the better of the game for large portions, and most of the Red Dragons team can be very happy with their performance on the day. Indeed, fans will be pleased to see a lot more fight and a higher work rate compared to the previous game.
Arthur Okonkwo – 6
A few instances of shaky handling and sub-par distribution let him down if we are being picky, but there were no costly errors and Arthur Okonkwo will be fairly happy with that on his return to the starting lineup.
Max Cleworth – 9
Between him and Ryan Longman, someone should have picked up MacDonald at the back post. Unlucky with an effort outside the box in the first half, but more than made up for all of that after the interval, with a brilliant goal and a towering defensive performance.
Eoghan O’Connell – 7
Another solid showing from a man who really had to start finding his form again. He looks back to his best, with strong defensive work, composure on the ball, and great reading of the game.
Tom O’Connor – 7
Stepped out of defence to intercept balls really well and help Wrexham transition into attack. Made some effective passes from deep, too.
Ryan Longman – 6
Let his man go at the back post for the Mansfield goal, or at least should have communicated with Cleworth to cover. Teamed up to deal with a tricky situation moments later. Good in possession down the right. Missed a great chance at the back post from a tight angle. A bit of a mixed display overall.
George Dobson – 7
Was poor against Leyton Orient, but showed a much more calm and composed side to his game today. Made a fair few driving runs with and without the ball to prove he’s more than just a holding midfielder.
Andy Cannon – 7
Really nice neat play in the middle at times. Great battling spirit as always. Such a shame that his game had to come to an end as he was stretchered off late in the first half.
Ollie Rathbone – 8
Top-drawer from Rathbone once more, who is proving to be the beating heart of this Wrexham midfield. Set up the first goal with a wicked cross. Put himself about with big tackles, progressive carries, and was always trying to make something happen in attack.
Seb Revan – 7
Looked dangerous down the left. Constantly drawing fouls with his quick feet and skills. Just needs to improve that final ball and his decision-making.
Sam Smith – 7
A frustrating afternoon for Wrexham’s record signing, who had a handful of half-chances but couldn’t put it in the net. Can’t fault his work rate, though.
Jay Rodriguez – 6
Missed a sitter. Offered some nice hold-up play at times, though. Feels like he just needs a goal, or something to go his way for him to really settle in here.
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Substitutes used readily by Phil Parkinson to protect lead
Parkinson’s hand was forced towards the end of the first half, with a serious injury to Andy Cannon. The Wrexham manager made another couple of changes with about 15 minutes to go, with his team already leading the match.
Matty James – 6
Had to come on for Cannon before half-time due to the latter’s injury. A solid performance, but nothing spectacular.
Steven Fletcher – 5
On for Jay Rodriguez with just over 15 minutes to go. Looked a little sluggish on the ball, taking a second or two too long to release the ball or shoot on a number of occasions. Faded out of the game quickly.
Ryan Barnett – 6
Replaced Ryan Longman on 74 minutes. Barely made a difference, and will be disappointed not to get more involved.
Jack Marriott – 6
On for Sam Smith with five minutes remaining. Not much time to do anything of note. Made some good runs, though.