The League One automatic promotion race is now in Wrexham’s hands after a potentially pivotal victory over Burton Albion.
Wrexham went into the weekend with a three-point lead over Wycombe Wanderers in the race for second place, but that lead is now up to six points.
Wrexham beat Burton Albion 3-0 on Saturday afternoon with Steven Fletcher, Sam Smith and Jack Marriott all finding the net.
Burton were reduced to 10 men early on as Charlie Webster’s challenge left Wrexham’s George Dobson with a nasty injury.
Breaking down the 10-man Brewers was not an easy task, but once that first goal found the net, Wrexham accelerated away.
Wycombe Wanderers were beaten by Reading, too, meaning Wrexham now sit six points clear of the third-placed Chairboys.
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Phil Parkinson reacts to Wycombe Wanderers defeat
Wycombe still have a game in hand on Wrexham, which comes away to Huddersfield Town on Tuesday night.
Even if Wycombe win that game, they will still be three points behind Wrexham – and still have to play Bolton Wanderers, Leyton Orient, Charlton Athletic and Stockport County.
That is a tough run-in for Wycombe, which is why Wrexham establishing this advantage now feels so important.
The atmosphere around the STōK Cae Ras, including the celebrations for Wycombe falling behind, told you that this was an enormous day.
Phil Parkinson is about as level-headed as they come; never too high or too low, always laser-focused on the next game ahead.
Parkinson did, though, admit that Wycombe’s defeat was a ‘bonus’ for Wrexham, even if his mindset wasn’t going to change no matter their result – his full focus was on Wrexham’s fortunes.
“Our job was just to win and nothing was going to change our mindset,” said Parkinson whilst speaking to BBC Sport.
“It’s a bonus, we can’t hide away from it, but we’re just pleased we took care of our own business and now we have to make sure we’re really focused on what we’ve got to do,” he added.
Phil Parkinson ‘knew’ Reading would be tough for Wycombe
Wrexham lost at Reading in March, falling to a 2-0 away defeat against the Royals.
Parkinson is a hero at Reading from his playing days, and they turned up with a real favour for Wrexham.
Speaking on Wrexham Match Day Live, Parkinson admitted that he ‘knew’ Wycombe would face a tough task against Reading.
Parkinson is pleased to see that the promotion race is in Wrexham’s hands, but wants his players to remain focused on the task at hand.
“Reading are a good side and I knew that game would be tough for Wycombe today – I’m obviously pleased with the result,” said Parkinson.
“Of course, it’s in our hands but we’re not looking too far ahead and I think that’s key for us. I’m just pleased with the lads today, the way they stuck at it,” he added.
Wrexham are next in action against Wigan Athletic next weekend, with Wycombe needing a result at Huddersfield in midweek in order to put the pressure back on Parkinson’s side.