Wrexham’s 2025 pre-season tour of Australia continued on Tuesday with a clash against Sydney FC.
After winning promotion to the Championship, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney decided to change up their pre-season presentation, travelling to Australia and New Zealand this summer instead.
Wrexham beat Melbourne Victory 3-0 in their opening game of the tour last Friday after goals from Tom O’Connor, Ryan Hardie and George Evans.
Another victory was expected on July 15 against a weak Sydney team.
Wrexham took the lead after 18 minutes when James McClean’s ball into the box was deflected in by Corey Hollman.
The home outfit hit back right before half-time, with Danny Ward’s initial save then tapped in by Alexandar Popovic.
Substitute goalkeeper Callum Burton was then at fault as Sydney took a 2-1 lead in the 74th minute. Here are three things we learned from the clash.
Wrexham appear to have injury problems
The season is now under a month away, and while only one game has been played, Wrexham appear to have injury problems.
Fans noticed Sam Smith was missing vs Sydney – the second game in a row the striker hasn’t been named on the bench.
Phil Parkinson is yet to provide an official update, but it looks as though the club’s record signing does have some form of issue.
Meanwhile, after injuring his head and coming off in the second half against Melbourne, Ryan Hardie was also absent from the squad, with Ollie Palmer featuring for the second consecutive game despite losing his place in the league last term.
Then, in another blow, Ollie Rathbone was forced off inside the first 45 on Tuesday with a knock.
Wrexham need to complete more transfers
Hardie and Ward are the only signings the Dragons have made this summer, and the latter is expected to be a back-up option.
It has left fans concerned, with one writing in response to the team facing Sydney, ‘Without some major business, that squad is going to struggle to stay up’.
The club are working on deals, but they appear to be having a hard time getting them over the line, with Wrexham target Danny Ings now joining Middlesbrough.
Parkinson will hope his current group of players can compete in the second tier, but it’s become clear that supporters’ unrest towards the lack of business is growing.
James McClean remains crucial for Wrexham
Reports last week said that Owen Beck is the defender Wrexham want to sign this summer.
The Liverpool youngster, expected to be available on loan, is a left-back so would be competing with James McClean and Sebastian Revan for a starting berth.
McClean is now 36 and in the final year of his contract, but despite his age, continues to prove he can offer Wrexham a lot.
The Irishman was once again impressive against Sydney, providing a lot of attacking threat down the left and getting the assist for the own goal.
His experience and continued quality will prove key for Wrexham in the Championship next term.