Wrexham AFC will be hoping to leapfrog second-placed Wycombe Wanderers on the League One standings table when the Red Dragons face Leyton Orient at SToK Cae Ras on Tuesday. The team, under the stewardship of manager Phil Parkinson, is eager to convert their form and secure three points to boost their promotion campaign.
The encounter is set to kick off on February 18, 2025, at 16:45 (BRT), with the match holding significant weight for Wrexham as they look to climb the rankings. Having come off a favorable 2-0 victory against Northampton Town, Wrexham enters this clash with confidence and motivation.
Both teams demonstrated their attacking prowess in their last outings, with Wrexham and Leyton Orient each securing wins. Leyton Orient, fresh off their 3-2 victory over Lincoln City, will bring their own momentum to the match. This contest provides Wrexham the opportunity to take advantage of the home-field advantage at SToK Cae Ras, where local fans are expected to rally behind the players.
Wrexham’s squad looks poised for the match, with the majority of the team's star players ready to take the field. Manager Phil Parkinson is expected to field his strongest lineup, barring goalkeeper Callum Burton and midfielder Elliott Lee, who remain sidelined. Notably, forward Paul Mullin, who sat out the previous match as part of tactical adjustments, is back to training and anticipates making significant contributions to the team's attack. New signing Sam Smith, who recently scored his debut goal with Wrexham, will likely be on the radar for this clash too.
Meanwhile, Leyton Orient faces some concerns with their squad. Defender Tom James is considered a major doubt after sustaining an injury during the match against Lincoln City, leading to speculation over Brandon Cooper's inclusion in the starting XI. Nevertheless, Leyton Orient's attackers are on form, with Sonny Perkins, who scored twice previously, and Charlie Kelman likely to continue leading their charge up front. This presents Wrexham's defense with significant challenges.
The matchup also reflects the clubs' historical rivalry, with Wrexham seeking to improve on their past performances against Leyton Orient. The teams last met on September 28, 2024, where the match ended 0-0. Recent encounters suggest the competition remains fierce, and both squads have much to prove.
Betting odds show Wrexham as slight favorites for the upcoming match, with various bookmakers offering compelling lines for the outcome. The team has approximately 42% chances of winning, reflecting the anticipation and stakes at play for both clubs. Leyton Orient, on the other hand, cannot be discounted, especially considering their attacking capabilities showcased recently.
This clash not only has ramifications for the League One table but also serves as another chapter in the storied legacies of Wrexham AFC and Leyton Orient. Fans and analysts alike have their eyes set on the outcome, opening the door for both teams to establish their intent and direction as they push toward the end of the season.