Wrexham orchestrated a sensational comeback against Hull City in the Carabao Cup first round, winning 5-3 on penalties after a 3-3 draw. Ollie Palmer emerged as the hero, scoring twice in stoppage time to force the penalty shootout. The match, played at the Racecourse Ground in front of 10,107 fans, was a rollercoaster of emotions, marking Wrexham's first home game since securing promotion to the Championship.
Phil Parkinson made sweeping changes to the Wrexham lineup following their defeat to Southampton, with eleven new players entering the starting eleven. Despite the changes, Wrexham started brightly, with Elliot Lee putting them ahead just after the half-hour mark. However, Hull City responded quickly, with former Chester player Oli McBurnie leveling the score.
The second half saw Hull City take control, with goals from Joel Ndala and Matt Crooks seemingly sealing their victory. With the score at 3-1 and time running out, Wrexham's hopes of advancing in the Carabao Cup looked slim. However, substitute Ollie Palmer had other ideas.
Palmer, who has found himself lower in the pecking order after recent signings, stepped up in spectacular fashion. He scored two headers in quick succession during stoppage time, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and forcing the game into penalties.
Wrexham maintained their composure in the penalty shootout, converting all five of their spot-kicks. Hull City, however, faltered when Joel Ndala's shot hit the crossbar. Jack Marriott then stepped up to score the decisive penalty, securing Wrexham's place in the second round. Wrexham won the shootout 5-3. James McClean, Elliot Lee and Ollie Palmer also scored their penalties.
The dramatic victory was made even more poignant by a pre-match minute's silence in memory of Wrexham legend Joey Jones. The win marked a memorable return to the Racecourse Ground and highlighted the resilience and fighting spirit within the Wrexham squad. It was Wrexham's first home game since their promotion-clinching victory against Charlton Athletic in April.
The Hollywood-owned club continues to defy expectations, and this latest chapter will surely add to the growing legend of Wrexham AFC.
