Wrexham have been told what they must improve on to compete in the Championship after their clash with Southampton showed one glaring weakness.
Wrexham lost to Southampton 2-1 in agonising fashion this weekend, which has shown that the jump up to the Championship is set to be a challenge for Phil Parkinson’s side this season.
There was plenty of promise on show from Wrexham throughout the tie, with Josh Windass bagging a goal on his debut, whilst Kieffer Moore shone before picking up an injury.
Wrexham were praised by Ray Parlour following the contest, especially after showing plenty of attacking strength in the first half against recently-relegated Premier League side Southampton.
Unfortunately, one thing that was not quite up to scratch at the weekend has been noted by one EFL expert, and it is definitely something that Parkinson will need to work on in training.
Wrexham require ‘clinical’ edge to compete in the Championship
Phil Parkinson was happy with his Wrexham side following the defeat to Southampton, but it was clear that, on another day, the Red Dragons could have run away with the lead.
Both Ryan Hardie and Lewis O’Brien had chances from one-on-one in the second half to double Wrexham’s advantage, which would have likely sealed the win for the Red Dragons.
This was noted by EFL expert Justin Peach on the Second Tier Podcast, who said: “They will be pretty happy with that. I think if they were maybe a little bit more clinical, they could have been 3-1 up.
“The Conor Coady chance in the first seven minutes he fired over from three yards out. You’ve mentioned Lewis O’Brien bearing down on goal, last last-minute recovery tackle. Ryan Hardy bringing out a top-class save from Gavin Bazuno.
“It could have been a very different game from a Wrexham point of view and it is a harsh lesson in stepping into the Championship and you need to take those chances.”
They also heaped praise on Wrexham, in particular Josh Windass, who showed immense quality throughout the tie.
“Josh Windass looked unplayable in the first half, by the way. Really enjoyed his performance.”
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Phil Parkinson must make sure Wrexham do not lose confidence
Recent years have seen Wrexham notch success, not just because of the brilliant business they have been able to conduct in the transfer windows, but also the mentality that Phil Parkinson has helped breed at the Racecourse Ground.
This has been integral to their rise through the EFL and into the Championship, and whilst the second tier will bring up plenty of challenges for Parkinson and his players, they must ensure that their heads do not drop after the defeat to Southampton.
There was plenty to build on for Wrexham following the loss to Southampton, and if Parkinson’s side can work on their ability in front of goal, they will be in for an exciting and successful Championship season.