Wrexham will face Reading in the third round of the EFL Cup in the knowledge that a fixture against an English giant may be the reward for either side.
The Red Dragons have had an exciting journey in the competition this season following their two previous victories, as Wrexham staged an impressive comeback against Hull City in the first round, and then in the second round, they travelled to Preston North End and secured another win.
Wrexham’s reward was a match against Reading, who earned victories over Portsmouth and Wimbledon.
Phil Parkinson’s side may be confident of securing a win over Reading, as their opponents sit 20th in League One; however, when it comes to cup football, there is no guarantee playing in a higher division will see your club win, especially as Wrexham look to break a 48-year record tonight.
Wrexham are looking to reach the fourth round of the EFL Cup in 48 years
Phil Parkinson managed to break an impressive record by reaching the third round of the EFL Cup, as they had not competed at this level since 1981, with the club set to face Reading tonight at this level.
However, should they win, the Red Dragons will reach the fourth round of the competition for the first time in 48 years, after they last competed at this level in 1977.
Wrexham would secure a win in 1977 against Swindon Town at this level, meaning they qualified for the quarter-final; however, this would be as far as they got in the competition that season.
Liverpool were the opponents in the next round of the 1977-78 competition, with the Reds emerging 3-1 victors as they continued their journey to the final, where they lost to Nottingham Forest.
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Wrexham need to be wary of Reading’s recent record against clubs in higher divisions
Reading have achieved an impressive record in the EFL Cup recently when playing away from home against those clubs competing in higher divisions.
Wrexham need to be wary that their opponents have secured wins in their last two away games when facing clubs from a higher division.
However, Phil Parkinson may turn to the fact that this record is only recent, with their performances before that being abysmal, as Reading only won one of the prior 21 beforehand.