Wrexham’s Championship hopes took a hit on Wednesday as they fell to third place, and out of the automatic promotion places, in the League One table after succumbing to a 2-1 defeat to Barnsley at STōK Cae Ras.
The Welsh club’s defeat and Birmingham City’s 1-1 draw against Stockport County ensured Wycombe Wanderers’ narrow win over Exeter City moved to the top of the League One table. Birmingham, which counts legendary NFL quarterback Tom Brady as a minority investor, has a game in hand against the new league leaders.
Wrexham were behind after 11 minutes when Davis Keillor-Dunn cut inside and fired a shot into the far corner after being picked out by a change of play from midfielder Adam Phillips.
Phillips got himself on the scoresheet 12 minutes later when he fired a shot beyond Wrexham’s 38-year-old goalkeeper Adam Phillips.
Sébastien Frej/MB Media/Getty Images
The home side improved much after the half-time break as they looked for a way back into the game.
Steven Fletcher came close four minutes after the break when he forced a save from Barnsley keeper Ben Killip. Fletcher was denied again on the hour mark when Corey O’Keeffe blocked the Wrexham striker’s effort on the line.
George Dobson saw an effort bounce off the crossbar in the 65th minute after being picked out by a fine cross from James McLean.
Max Cleworth gave Wrexham a lifeline when he hit a free ball beyond Killip 10 minutes from time, but the Welsh club could not find a late equalizer.
The team of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney face Peterborough United in their next match on Saturday.
