Wrexham’s promotion hopes suffered a setback as they were held to a goalless draw at the Brick Community Stadium.
Ryan Lowe’s Wigan proved too solid defensively for Wrexham’s deflated attack to break down as Phil Parkinson’s side just never got going in front of an expectant away support.
Parkinson believes Wrexham were denied a ‘clear’ penalty in the second half but Sam Smith was often left an isolated figure up top as Arthur Okonkwo preserved a point for his side.
In truth, Wigan were the side that looked more likely to snatch a winner between the two sides and following Wycombe’s 1-0 win, the Red Dragons have one player in particular to thank to still have a one point lead in the League One standings.
Eoghan O’Connell stars for Wrexham in clash with Wigan Athletic
Eoghan O’Connell has been sensational for Wrexham since his return to the side in the 2-1 victory over Crawley Town back in February.
The Red Dragons defender had a difficult time at the start of the calendar year as he made blunders in defeats to Barnsley and Shrewsbury and was taken out the side for a period.
However, at the centre of a back three, O’Connell has excelled for Wrexham upon his return to the side and is a huge factor behind their incredible clean sheet record which stretches to 22 for the season.
Humphrey Ker’s player of the season choice is O’Connell and alongside the likes of Max Cleworth and Lewis Brunt, the defence really pulled their team through for what could prove to be a vital point against Wigan.
O’Connell match statistics v Wigan Athletic
Without creating any clear cut chances, Wigan were the better side overall during the 90 minutes but any attacking threat they had was often thwarted by the intelligence and strength of O’Connell.
In 13 duels both on the ground and in the air, O’Connell did not lose a single one and his positioning and reading of the game made him look a cut above anyone else on the pitch.
| Wigan v Wrexham match statistics | Eoghan O’Connell |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Clearances | 22 |
| Blocked shots | 1 |
| Tackles won | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Ground duels won | 2/2 |
| Aerial duels won | 11/11 |
Wrexham will be disappointed to let two points slip from their grasp but promotion remains in their hands and Wycombe’s run in is tougher on paper.
Bristol Rovers are next up at the Racecourse Ground and more attacking impetus will be needed in order to keep their Championship dream alive knowing that O’Connell will sweep up at the back.