Wrexham faced off with Barnsley in a League One meeting on Tuesday evening at the Racecourse Ground.
The Red Dragons headed into the tie well-rested after a week off following their early exit from the FA Cup.
Phil Parkinson’s side have been in excellent form of late, most recently securing a 1-0 win over Lincoln City.
That victory ensured Wrexham remained in the automatic promotion places for at least another week but the battle at the top end of League One remains tight.
Birmingham City are breathing down the Welsh side’s next with two games in hand, while Barnsley kicked off on Tuesday sat sixth, knowing a win would close the gap between themselves and Wrexham to just four points.
It was a quiet first 45 with Callum Burton’s injury for Wrexham vs Barnsley the most notable talking point.
Wrexham went on to dominate for large periods after the break but the away outfit’s goalkeeper proved a tough nut to crack.
However, the home team did eventually break the deadlock in the 92nd minute when Ollie Rathbone fired in a superb strike from just outside the box to win the tie.
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Here’s how the players rated –
Callum Burton – 6
Was solid during his short time on the pitch. Replaced due to injury after 23 minutes.
Max Cleworth – 6
Not his best showing in a Wrexham shirt but he did a good job stepping out of the back three and pinging balls forward to start attacking phases of play.
Eoghan O’Connell – 8
Was a real rock at the back on Tuesday, completely dominating the aerial battle, clearing his lines well and making some big tackles.
Lewis Brunt – 6
Lost possession a few times and his passing wasn’t perfect but his defensive showing on the night was very good.
Ryan Barnett – 6
Solid on the attacking front once more, forcing a big save from the Barnsley goalkeeper and putting in a few decent crosses.
Matty James – 7
Another excellent showing from the recent signing, dominating in midfield and threatening Barnsley’s goal with some good long-range efforts.
George Dobson – 6
Started in a more advanced midfield role for the second game in a row but much like the Lincoln clash, failed to create too much for the Wrexham strikers on the day.
Ollie Rathbone – 8
Worked hard in the centre of the park, chasing down every loose ball and putting in some good tackles to break up Barnsley’s attacks. Scored a stunning goal to win the game.
James McClean – 6
Not his most electric display but was his usually assured self, bombing up and down the left flank to help out defensively while still creating some chances at the other end.
Elliot Lee – 5
Another questionable showing from the makeshift centre-forward. Failed to form a decent connection with his striking partner and largely failed to test the Barnsley keeper.
Ollie Palmer – 6
Solid in the air as always but his finishing ability wasn’t great, putting a few efforts over the bar and wide.
Substitutes
Mark Howard – 5
Was handed his first appearance in League One this season, coming off after 23 minutes due to Burton’s injury. Had little to do but did it well.
Paul Mullin – 5
Another chance to prove himself off the bench amid a period of poor form but failed to find the net once more.
Steven Fletcher – 5
Brought on to try and help Wrexham get in front after a period of dominance but struggled to create much.
Andy Cannon – N/A
Only on the pitch for a few minutes in injury time.