Wrexham defended from 'one-dimensional' claims as Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's side are told what they must do to stay in automatic promotion hunt after suffering shock defeat

Wrexham’s clash against Stevenage ended in a 1-0 defeat, courtesy of a Louis Thompson goal in the 10th minute. This marked their second defeat of the campaign, with their earlier loss coming against Birmingham City at St. Andrews. In that match, Phil Parkinson's men showed early promise, with Jack Marriott netting the opening goal just three minutes in. However, Birmingham’s Jay Stansfield responded with a brace, sealing a 3-1 win for the Blues.

Despite the setbacks, EFL expert Don Goodman believes Wrexham could be strong contenders for a top-six finish if they can replicate their early intensity they showed against Birmingham.

"Before the season started, I thought it was too much for Wrexham to close the gap between the top of League Two and the top of League One. But after seeing their performances, I was wrong,” Goodman admitted during an interview with Grosvenor Sport.

"It's a big gap but they're certainly capable of, at least, a top-six finish. It's probably still premature to say that they can go beyond that. If they can produce the level of football that they showed in the first 15 minutes at St Andrew's, then they'll give themselves a real chance of beating the other clubs in League One.

"They went to the best team in the league and had a real go. A lot of people will say that they are one-dimensional, get the ball forward early and get crosses into the box but I saw Wrexham control the ball. They played out of the back, played through the thirds and caused Birmingham problems in a cauldron. Those are the levels they will be hoping to replicate. They're a versatile team, are always a threat from set-pieces and have all the tools."

One of Wrexham's undeniable strengths this season has been their formidable home record. The Racecourse Ground has become a fortress, with Wrexham winning all four of their home games so far. According to Goodman, this home form could play a pivotal role in their promotion push.

"When you have the home form that Wrexham do, which is incredible, it makes the Racecourse Ground a hard place to go. Away from home is where they will be tested," he said.

"They play quite a few games against teams in the top-half soon. If they can come through those matches and remain within touching distance of the top two, then maybe I'll admit that automatic promotion could be on."

After securing back-to-back promotions, they are now eyeing a historic third straight promotion, a feat no club has achieved within the top five levels of English football. Their home form remains a bright spot and the team are currently preparing to host Northampton Town at Stok Cae Ras on Saturday.