PHIL PARKINSON took defeat to Walsall “on the chin” but expects a positive response from his side against Barrow at The Racecourse on New Year’s Day.
Wrexham’s three-game winning run in League Two came to an end at the Bescot Stadium on Friday night as the Sadlers triumphed 3-1 in the final game of a memorable 2023 which saw the Reds clinch the National League title and return to the Football League following a 15-year absence.
Although Walsall took the lead, Paul Mullin converted his 10th goal of the season from the penalty spot to leave it all-square at the break.
But the home side went ahead on the hour mark and with Wrexham chasing the game, the Sadlers scored a third goal late in the contest to secure victory.
“Obviously I am disappointed to lose,” said Parkinson.
“The first half was a good game and both teams were full out with a lot of good football played.
“We went a goal behind, then got one back from the penalty spot and had another good chance from Mulls to go ahead.
“Second half, I was making the three substitutions before the free-kick went in because we needed a lift and the second goal just gave them a huge lift of adrenalin.
“We found it difficult to respond after that. They just looked a year sharper all over the pitch and some of their key players had more of an impact on the game than ours.
“We probably tried to force things instead of doing it in a more constructive way.
“When we changed to a diamond which we have done so many times successfully, we had to keep passing the ball but we gave it away too cheaply.
“It was a bit of them doing well but almost like us trying to chase it too soon and being a little bit frantic on the ball.
“We enjoyed the win at Swindon and we will take this one on the chin together, and move onto Barrow.”
Despite the fourth defeat of the season, Wrexham are third in the table and only five points behind leaders Stockport County with a game in hand.
The Reds kick-off 2024 with a mouthwatering clash against promotion rivals Barrow, who sit fourth, at The Racecourse tomorrow and Parkinson is aiming to bounce back immediately.
“Other teams in the top half have dropped points and it is difficult,” added the Reds’ boss.
“Especially teams going away in the Christmas period when the games come thick and fast.
“We have got beat and we are disappointed.
“We thank the supporters who came down to support us but we will be ready for New Year’s Day and move quickly onto Barrow for what will be a fantastic atmosphere at The Racecourse.
“Barrow have maintained their push for promotion, it’s a top of the table clash and I can’t wait.”
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