Fan Allegedly Ejected After Incident with Wrexham’s James McClean
Wrexham AFC player James McClean was reportedly involved in an altercation with a spectator during a heated League One match against Stockport County. The incident led to the fan’s alleged removal from the stadium amidst a game that solidified Wrexham’s promotion ambitions.
Tunnel Incident
Following the match, team captain McClean was walking towards the tunnel at the Racecourse Ground when an irate supporter confronted him. It is alleged the individual attempted to punch the Republic of Ireland international. Stadium security and police intervened, and the fan was reportedly ejected from the premises.
Club and Police Contacted
Wrexham AFC and North Wales Police have been contacted for comment regarding the alleged incident.
Wrexham Secures Crucial Victory Amidst Controversy
On the field, Wrexham claimed a valuable three points, boosting their pursuit of automatic promotion to the Championship. The Red Dragons entered Saturday’s contest ahead of promotion rivals Stockport and took the lead through a contentious first-half penalty decision.
Contentious Penalty Decides Match
The pivotal moment occurred when a McClean header in the penalty area appeared to strike Ibou Touray’s arm at close range. Initially, the referee waved play on, but following a prolonged discussion with his assistant, a penalty kick was awarded. Stockport players and fans reacted angrily to the decision, considering its significant implications in the Championship promotion race.
Rodriguez Nets Decisive Goal
Jay Rodriguez, formerly of Premier League clubs Southampton and Burnley, stepped up to take the spot-kick. While his initial attempt was saved by the Stockport goalkeeper, Rodriguez converted the rebound, securing the goal. This strike marked the 35-year-old forward’s first goal for Wrexham since joining in January from Burnley, ending a ten-game scoreless streak.
Promotion Race Heats Up
This victory elevates Wrexham into the automatic promotion places in League One, positioning them behind league leaders Birmingham City. Phil Parkinson’s team now holds a three-point advantage over Wycombe Wanderers in third place, although Wycombe has played one game less.
Stockport Remains Play-Off Contender
Stockport County, currently in fifth position, remains a strong contender for a play-off spot despite this defeat, their first in five games. The match was marked by significant disciplinary action, with eleven yellow cards issued and Stockport defender Brad Hills receiving a red card in the 80th minute after accumulating two yellow cards.
Parkinson Comments on “Feisty Encounter”
Following the match, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson acknowledged the intensity of the game:
“It was always going to be a feisty encounter because there’s now an edge to this fixture. But I think we deserved it and I’m delighted for Jay that he got his goal. He’s worked tirelessly for the team and he deserved that moment but in terms of spirit, togetherness, grit and the determination required to engage at this stage of the season, it was all out there for us.”