Wrexham 2-0 Stoke City : Red Dragons revive Championship play-off bid

Stoke were without defenders Ben Wilmot, Junior Tchamadeu, Makysym Talovierov and Ashley Phillips for the trip to north Wales.

And their defensive frailties were fully exposed in a 69-second spell as Wrexham combined a mix of direct play with some neat build-up throughout to cause the Potters’ makeshift backline plenty of problems.

Goalkeeper Bazunu did not cover himself in glory for Wrexham’s opener, and the same applied to captain Cresswell for the home side’s second.

Their most potent attacking threat, Sorba Thomas – who has 10 goals and 10 assists in the Championship this season – endured a tough afternoon, albeit out of position at right-back.

It all ensured Wrexham were able to end their three-game winless run and reignite their bid to reach the top six. It was done in remarkably composed fashion too.

Having been serious play-off contenders after recovering from their slow start to the Championship season, Parkinson was determined to ensure his side did not hand a play-off spot to any of their rivals. They had to be made to work for it.

In beating Stoke, Wrexham achieved just that while also ensuring they still have a real chance of extending their season themselves as the likes of Hull and Middlesbrough – who they host on the final day of the campaign – remain firmly in their sights.