Wrexham Dominates melbourne Victory in pre-Season Opener Down Under
Wrexham kicked off their Australian tour with a commanding 3-0 victory over Melbourne Victory, the reigning A-League grand final runners-up, at a lively Marvel stadium. Phil Parkinson’s side showcased an remarkable performance, with goals from Tom O’Connor, debutant Ryan Hardie, and George Evans securing a stylish start to their Down Under campaign.
The early exchanges were tightly contested, with both goalkeepers called into action. Arthur Okonkwo, Wrexham’s custodian, made crucial saves to deny Melbourne’s Clarismario Santos and Zinédine Machach. On the other side, Jack duncan was forced into a series of impressive stops, parrying efforts from Dan Scarr and Seb Revan. Wrexham gradually asserted their dominance, with Max Cleworth’s acrobatic attempt being expertly tipped over by Duncan just before halftime.
The breakthrough for the Welsh club came moments before the interval when Tom O’Connor found the back of the net from a punched clearance. Following halftime, Parkinson introduced several summer signings, including Hardie and Danny Ward, who joined from Plymouth Argyle and Leicester City respectively. Melbourne almost drew level early in the second half, but Louis D’Arrigo’s powerful shot struck the crossbar.Wrexham went agonizingly close to doubling their lead when Harry Ashfield’s header, from a James McClean cross, rattled the woodwork. However,their persistence paid off in the 67th minute. Ryan Barnett’s driven cross was expertly turned in by Hardie, marking a memorable first goal for the striker in Wrexham colours. The win was sealed late on when George Evans unleashed a shot from 25 yards that found its way under the despairing dive of Victory’s substitute goalkeeper, Daniel Graskoski.
This resounding victory sets a positive tone for Wrexham as they continue their pre-season preparations. They are scheduled to face Sydney FC next on Tuesday,July 15th,followed by a clash against Wellington Phoenix on Saturday,July 19th. The club will than turn their attention to the upcoming 2025-26 Championship season,commencing their campaign away to Southampton before hosting West Bromwich Albion at home.
Keywords: Wrexham AFC, Melbourne Victory, Pre-season Football, Australia Tour, Football News, League Two, A-League, Ryan Hardie, George Evans, Tom O’Connor, Phil Parkinson
