Wrexham's Convincing Win: Sam Smith Fires Red Dragons into Play-off Contention
Sam Smith's second-half winner ensured Wrexham rose back into the Championship play-off places with a hard-fought 1-0 win over struggling Sheffield Wednesday. The Welsh side now sits in sixth place, just eight points adrift of the automatic promotion spots.
Sam Smith's second-half winner ensured Wrexham rose back into the Championship play-off places with a hard-fought 1-0 win over struggling Sheffield Wednesday. In a game low on quality, Smith's finish just before the hour mark ensured the Welsh side came away with all three points at Hillsborough to go sixth. The Red Dragons are now within eight points of the automatic promotion spots as their push for Premier League promotion gathers pace.On paper, this was one of the easiest games Wrexham will face all season, as Wednesday hadn't won since September 20, and their last goal in the Championship was on Boxing Day. But other than an Issa Kabore strike from the edge of the box, an opportunistic volley that nestled on the roof of the net from Ben Sheaf, and Nathan Broadhead missing a free header from six yards, Wrexham were unconvincing in this lunchtime kick-off. But their patience paid off in the 58th minute when Manchester City loanee Kabore fizzed in a dangerous cross and Smith was on hand to knock in his fourth goal in six games. Former Reading man Smith forced a good stop from Wednesday goalkeeper Murphy Cooper not long after, before he missed a good opportunity from another teasing Kabore delivery. At the other end, Bailey Cadamarteri then stung the hands of Arthur Okonkwo, and from the resulting corner, Matty James made a crucial goal-line clearance from Jamal Lowe's shot. Overall, though, Wrexham were deserved winners and held on for an important victory.Although Smith got the winning goal, right wing-back Kabore was a menace down the wing, especially in the second half. His pace and potent crosses into the box proved too hot to handle for Wednesday, and without him, this could have been a frustrating afternoon for Wrexham. He also did his defensive duties well with some good covering work.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now.Who else but Wednesday? The Yorkshire side are bottom of the Championship, are on minus seven after multiple points deductions, are in administration and haven't won in the league in months. They frustrated Wrexham for long periods but other than two big chances, they offered little against Phil Parkinson's deserving winners. It is no wonder they haven't scored in eight games.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Sam Smith's Decisive Goal
In a game lacking in quality, Sam Smith found the back of the net just before the hour mark to secure all three points for Wrexham. This marked Smith's fourth goal in the last six games, demonstrating his key contribution to the team's recent success.
Issa Kabore's Impact
On loan from Manchester City, Issa Kabore played a pivotal role in Wrexham's victory. The right wing-back was a constant threat down the flank, providing dangerous crosses into the box and showcasing his defensive capabilities. Kabore's delivery ultimately led to the decisive goal by Smith.
Wednesday's Struggles Continue
Sheffield Wednesday's woes deepened as they succumbed to yet another defeat, remaining rooted to the bottom of the Championship table. With a string of poor results and a lack of goals, Wednesday failed to break down Wrexham's defense, highlighting their ongoing struggles this season.
Looking Ahead
As Wrexham pushes for a Premier League promotion, the team's solid performance against Wednesday serves as a stepping stone towards their aspirations. With key players like Smith and Kabore in good form, Wrexham looks poised to capitalize on their current momentum in the race for promotion.
