Wrexham produced a battling performance on Saturday afternoon, beating Mansfield Town 1-0 at the STōK Cae Ras thanks to Ryan Barnett’s early goal.
Wrexham fans and Phil Parkinson came into this game with the same hope – to see a reaction.
The FA Cup defeat at Harrogate Town was a major disappointment for Wrexham and a win in League One was the perfect remedy.
Ryan Barnett grabbed the only goal of the game, hitting a low drive beyond Mansfield Town stopper Christy Pym.
Barnett may have angered Paul Mullin by not passing to him but the Wrexham goal machine was still delighted to see the ball hit the net.
Wrexham had to dig in to win this game, leaving Rob McElhenney celebrating a ‘tough’ Wrexham victory over the Stags.
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Max Cleworth praises Wrexham star Ryan Barnett
Barnett has provided plenty of assists this season but it was his goalscoring ability on show this time.
The wing back drove in from the right flank to open the scoring, providing another crucial moment in the final third for Wrexham.
Barnett was praised by Wrexham teammates after his match-winning goal as his strong season continues.
Wrexham defender Max Cleworth has now joined in, telling Wrexham Match Day Live that he thinks Barnett has been simply ‘unbelievable’ this season.
Cleworth noted that Wrexham players know that Barnett can score more goals with Saturday’s superb finish a prime example of his qualities.
“Barney has been unbelievable this year. We know he has that finishing in him, we saw it last year, especially the second goal he scored against Forest Green here, so we know he can do it,” said Cleworth.
Wrexham will face Barnett interest in January
Cleworth’s praise for Barnett is certainly justified but his performances are driving transfer interest.
Reports in October claimed that Championship sides Preston North End and Stoke City had both shown an interest in signing Barnett.
Rob McElhenney has responded to those Barnett rumours by fending off both club, suggesting that they will need ‘good binoculars’ with Wrexham keen to keep any interested club at arm’s length.
An option has been activated in Barnett’s contract, miming his deal expires in 2026 rather than 2025, providing Wrexham with some security in January.
Offers may well arrive but Wrexham are in a strong position to keep hold of Barnett – and he will have a huge role to play in any potential push to the Championship.