Phil Parkinson has expressed satisfaction with Wrexham’s performance and believes they can always get better following their FA Cup defeat to Chelsea on Saturday.
The Championship aide produced a brilliant performance in 90 minutes to hold the Premier League side to a 2-2 draw, before conceding twice in extra-time as they bowed out of the competition on a 4-2 scoreline.
Wrexham took the lead in the first after through Sam Smith, but Chelsea were level when George Thomason’s clearance hit goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and flew into the net.
Callum Doyle then put the hosts back in front, before Josh Acheampong scored to level the scores for a second time in the game.
Speaking after the match, Parkinson was very pleased with Wrexham’s display as they gave their all despite the disappointing defeat.
“There were so many elements of our play to be pleased with. Our pressing, our discipline, but also some of the football we played. We carried a threat tonight which we thought we would”, Parkinson said.
“We didn’t come here tonight just to stop Chelsea. It’s such a shame that our first taste of VAR has gone this way because it will be the talking point.”
The big moment of the game came in stoppage time when George Dobson was sent off for a rash challenge after review by the VAR.
Chelsea then took advantage and scored through Alejandro Garnacho to stay ahead for the first time in the clash.
Wrexham thought they had found an equalizer when Lewis Brunt scored in the 114th minute, but VAR ruled out the goal for offside in the buildup.
Joao Pedro then scored the fourth in stoppage time of extra-time to seal an unconvincing win for the Blues.
Chelsea have advanced to the next round and will find out their opponents in Monday’s draw, while Wrexham will shift focus to the Championship, as they chase an unlikely promotion to the top-flight.
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