Although Wrexham is playing away from home, the mood is one of celebration as Phil Parkinson`s team has successfully secured their place in the Championship for the upcoming season. This promotion is their third in a row under Parkinson`s leadership, bringing the prospect of Premier League football closer, though the gap between the Championship and the top flight is considerably harder to bridge than their previous ascents.
Wrexham`s approach has involved increased investment with each step up the league pyramid, allowing them to evolve and strengthen their squad. With key figures like Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer featuring less frequently this season, it will be interesting to see how Parkinson sets up for the final match. This fixture could provide an opportunity to recognize some of the players who have been instrumental in achieving success over the past four years. Regardless of the lineup, the match in Lincolnshire is expected to be a festive occasion.
Match Information
- Date: Saturday, May 3
- Time: 10 a.m. ET
- Location: LNER Stadium — Lincoln, Lincolnshire
- Odds: Lincoln City +180; Draw +225; Wrexham +135
Last Encounter
These sides last faced each other in November at the Racecourse Ground. Lincoln City offered significant resistance, but Wrexham ultimately secured a 1-0 victory. In a match that was largely even statistically, the difference came from an own goal by midfielder Tendayi Darikwa in the 67th minute, which proved crucial for Wrexham`s promotion campaign.
Coach`s Comments
Manager Phil Parkinson recently addressed questions regarding the futures of Palmer and Mullin. He stressed that every player contributed to the promotion effort, stating, “First of all, everyone’s made a contribution. What level that has been doesn’t matter because everybody’s been together and contributed. Of course, there’s always players who would have liked to have played more. Equally, contributions can come in many forms, so I’m delighted with everybody as a group.” Parkinson confirmed that Mullin and Palmer are club legends and remain under contract for the next year, expected to return for preseason. Mullin`s season was partly impacted by a back injury. Considering his prolific goal-scoring record before entering League One (scoring 24 or more goals for three consecutive seasons), Wrexham will be keen to see if he can rediscover his top form in preseason, recognizing the importance of finding reliable goalscorers.
Premier League Aspirations
While exciting, discussions about the Premier League are somewhat premature. Wrexham`s immediate priority must be to consolidate their position and survive in the Championship. A key challenge is the age profile of the current squad, with most central players being 30 or older, barring a few exceptions like Max Cleworth, Thomas O`Connor, and Lewis Burnt. This suggests a significant reshaping of the roster will likely be necessary for sustained upward mobility.
Given their journey from the National League, this situation is understandable; it`s exceptionally rare for a team to make the climb from non-league football to the Premier League with the same core group of players. Investment will be critical. However, being in the Championship offers opportunities for shrewd loan signings to enhance the squad with talent without requiring massive transfer fees. The main goal for their debut season in the Championship will be simply staying in the division and building stability from there.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Lincoln City: George Wickens, Sean Roughan, Adam Jackson, Paudie O`Connor, Tendayi Darikwa, Ethan Erhahon, Erik Ring, Ben House, Ethan Hamilton, Reeco Hackett-Fairchild, James Collins
Wrexham: Arthur Okonkwo, Dan Scarr, Max Cleworth, Eoghan O`Connell, Ryan Barnett, Elliott Lee, Mattie James, Oliver Rathbone, James McLean, Sam Smith, Paul Mullin
Match Prediction
Wrexham will carry their celebratory mood on the road, likely giving minutes to players who were crucial in their journey. Expect them to secure a victory, potentially with their leader, Paul Mullin, finding the net. Despite a difficult season personally for the striker, he has the ability to deliver when it matters most, helping the Dragons end the season on a positive note.
Prediction: Lincoln City 1, Wrexham 2
