Wrexham will host Stockport County this weekend in a pivotal League One clash, with both teams vying for crucial points in their quest for automatic promotion.
The stakes couldn't be higher, as Wrexham currently sits third in League One, trailing second-placed Wycombe Wanderers by goal difference. The Red Dragons are precisely 12 points behind leaders Birmingham City, making this weekend's matchup crucial not only for bragging rights but also for a critical push towards the top two positions. Phil Parkinson's side has shown impressive form lately, particularly after a recent 1-0 victory against Wycombe, a result that bolstered their promotion aspirations.
Stockport County, only six points behind Wrexham, also finds themselves in the mix for promotion after a strong season since being promoted alongside Wrexham last year. Their recent 1-0 win over Bolton Wanderers, who are competing for a play-off spot, has reaffirmed their credentials as contenders.
As they prepare to meet, both sides are aware that a win is essential. Max Cleworth, a centre-back for Wrexham, commented on the pressure of such high-stakes matches. “Ever since the owners came in there has been added pressure on us from the outside,” Cleworth acknowledged, referring to the Hollywood ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. “We have dealt with that, even going for titles and promotions.” He emphasized the need for focus amidst external distractions, stating that the team must concentrate on the task at hand.
The match on Saturday, March 22, promises to be a feisty affair, reflecting the growing rivalry between the two clubs. Historically, Stockport has won 49 games to Wrexham's 37, with 21 draws in their encounters since their first meeting in 1922, which ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Notably, Wrexham secured their only victory in the last eight matches against Stockport on the final day of the previous season.
With emotions running high and the teams equally motivated, analysts have made their predictions for this crucial encounter. Charlie Hodgson foresees a tight contest, predicting a Wrexham victory at 3-2. “This is a massive game which is going to have big ramifications when the season ends,” he remarked, noting the pressure on Wrexham to perform as hosts.
Conversely, James Ray predicts a more cautious approach, suggesting a 1-1 draw. He commented, “Home form was central to the North Welsh side’s rise, but Stockport County are going to be a very stern opponent for the Red Dragons.” Ray highlighted that neither side would want to lose this pivotal match, potentially leading to a more tentative showdown.
Kickoff for the match is set for 3 PM local time at The Racecourse Ground, equating to 7 AM PT or 10 AM ET for those looking to follow along from the United States. Unfortunately for UK fans, due to the country’s 3 PM blackout rule, the game will not be available for live television broadcast.
For fans in the US, alternative viewing options include Paramount+, ESPN, CBS Sports Network, and Fubo streaming service, ensuring that supporters can still witness the tension unfolding on the field.
Health updates have emerged from Wrexham's camp ahead of the critical match, with manager Phil Parkinson revealing that four players are dealing with 'knocks' following the game against Wycombe. Among these is Ollie Rathbone, while George Dobson has also taken a significant blow in the same game. Ryan Barnett and Sebastian Revan are confirmed absentees due to injuries, throwing some uncertainty into the teams’ preparations.
The current League One landscape shows that, with nine matches remaining in the season, the race for promotion is far from settled. Birmingham City holds a commanding lead, but Wrexham, Stockport, and Charlton Athletic continue to challenge for the remaining spots. “It’s going to be nip and tuck to the end of the season,” Cleworth noted, acknowledging the competition among teams chasing after the last automatic promotion spot. “Every team is going to lose games; it’s just trying to find a level of consistency.”
As the excitement builds for this weekend's match, Wrexham fans remain hopeful that their team will deliver a strong performance and move closer to securing an unprecedented third consecutive promotion. With so much at stake, both teams are poised to leave everything on the pitch in a contest that will have lasting implications for their seasons.
