Wrexham were defeated by Groningen in the first of two pre-season clashes.
Phil Parkinson explained that his Wrexham side would face their Dutch opponents across two matches in preparation for the Championship campaign.
A ‘Wrexham XI’ were defeated 1-0 in a behind closed doors clash at the Groningen training ground before the second match takes place in front of fans at the stadium.
It was a good test for the Red Dragons and a number of key players got some vital minutes under their belts in search OF fitness and form.
Sam Smith and Conor Coady feature in Wrexham defeat to Groningen
After missing the pre-season tour down under, supporters will be delighted to learn that striker Sam Smith saw his first action of the campaign during the game.
Conor Coady was also given his debut less than 24 hours after officially signing for the club and skipper James McClean was also involved.
The report from the club stated that Elliot Lee and Ollie Palmer combined well in the second half to create a chance but saw their efforts thwarted by the Groningen keeper.
Harry Ashfield also had a number of bright moments but the game ultimately ended in defeat for the Red Dragons thanks to a late winner.
Phil Parkinson hands three debuts in Wrexham’s XI v Groningen
In the second match at the stadium, Parkinson has handed a debut to record signing Lewis O’Brien, alongside Josh Windass and Liberato Cacace.
The Wrexham boss will be hoping for a solid performance from his side and a positive result to build momentum going into the Southampton clash.
Jay Rodriguez will miss Wrexham’s season opener so it is even more important that the likes of new signing Ryan Hardie and other attacking options get up to speed in the clash in the Netherlands.
Wrexham have lost their last three matches now including the first clash against Groningen and will want to stop the rot before heading into that all important opener at St Mary’s Stadium.