Wrexham faced off with Lincoln City in a League One clash on Tuesday evening, aiming to keep their promotion push going.
Wrexham beat Exeter City 3-0 in their last fixture this past weekend, seeing them climb back into the automatic promotion places.
But with Wycombe Wanderers and Birmingham City still firmly in contention to finish in the top two, the Red Dragons could not afford any form of slip-up in midweek.
Lincoln City’s manager expected a ‘lively’ atmosphere at Wrexham, which was unsurprising given what a fortress the Racecourse Ground has been in 2024/25 so far.
After Exeter, Phil Parkinsons’s side had amassed an impressive 22 points at home in the league this term – the most of any club.
In turn, despite Lincoln also chasing promotion, Wrexham went into this tie as clear favorites.
However, the Red Dragons were off their game for large periods on Tuesday, with their attacking threat pretty dismal.
Wrexham eventually took the lead in the 67th minute when a James McClean cross was put into the Lincoln net by Tendayi Darikwa and that was enough to secure the three points.
Here’s how the players rated –
Callum Burton – 7
Another excellent showing from the second-choice goalkeeper, who made some important saves during periods of high pressure from Lincoln.
Max Cleworth – 6
A decent showing from the centre-back whose usually high attacking threat was low but his defensive work was good, making some big blocks and reading play well.
Eoghan O’Connell – 6
Played a key role in keeping key striker Bailey Cadamarteri at bay for much of the 90 minutes with some big tackles and interceptions.
Lewis Brunt – 7
Once again solid on only his second league start for Wrexham, winning the majority of his duels and making some key tackles.
Ryan Barnett – 6
Provided a decent attacking outlet down the right flank but it was by no means his best showing of the 2024/25 campaign – though his ceiling is pretty high given just how immense he has been.
Matty James – 7
A well-rounded, experienced display from the midfielder, barking orders at his teammates every time Lincolon began to dominate. A really composed showing, which included impressive passing and solid defensive work.
George Dobson – 7
Operated in a more advanced role on Tuesday evening and thrived, making some excellent attacking runs and trying to find key man Ryan Barnett at every opportunity.
Ollie Rathbone – 6
Won some key battles but was a fairly anonymous showing from the midfielder, who, at times, made it too easy for Lincoln to play through the middle.
James McClean – 8
Produced a number of dangerous crosses while bombing up and down the left flank and was solid at the other end of the pitch as well. His cross forced Darikwa into the own goal.
Elliot Lee – 3
Started in a striking role for the second game on the spin but was really poor. Failed to link up with Palmer and his passing and finishing were both lacking.
Ollie Palmer – 7
Once again excelled in his target man role, winning the majority of balls played his way and progressing attacks very well.
Substitutes
Paul Mullin – 4
Replaced a frustrated Elliot Lee with Parkinson looking to kill the game off. Missed a big chance late on.
Andy Cannon – 5
A lively cameo from the midfielder who chased down every ball as Wrexham tried to hold onto their lead.