Wrexham's Championship campaign began with a bitter taste on Monday night, as a 98th-minute free-kick from Rubin Colwill rescued Cardiff City a 1-1 draw at Cardiff City Stadium and left manager Phil Parkinson furious with the match officials. The Red Dragons had been on course for a statement opening-day victory against Welsh rivals Cardiff, only to be denied in the most cruel fashion deep into stoppage time. Parkinson made no attempt to hide his frustration after the final whistle, directing his anger at the referee's handling of the closing stages.

The result means Wrexham sit 13th in the Championship table after one game, level on points with Cardiff directly below them, as both clubs begin the search for consistency in the second tier. The draw will sting given how close they came to three points, and the manner of the equaliser risks denting the confidence built during a pre-season that included a notable friendly win over Manchester United.

Off the pitch, the club had already signalled serious intent for this campaign. A club-record £8 million deal for Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson was agreed earlier this month, underlining the ambitions of owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as they push toward the Premier League in their second Championship season. Patterson's arrival gives Wrexham a significant upgrade between the posts.

Attention now turns to Saturday, when Watford visit SToK Cae Ras. After the frustration of Cardiff, Parkinson's side will be eager to get their first win on the board in front of their own supporters.