James McClean's first league goal of the season secured 10-man Wrexham a battling 1-0 win over Swindon Town to strengthen their promotion push.

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McClean scores game's only goalJones sent off for WrexhamWelsh side up to second with winTELL ME MORE

Wrexham extended their Christmas cheer as they dug deep to claim all three points at County Ground on Boxing Day. McClean skipped past a defender in the box before slotting home a neat finish in the 13th minute after a bright start to the contest. The Red Dragons looked more likely to make it 2-0 as McClean and Andy Cannon threatened for the visitors and then James Jones, Elliot Lee and Cannon went close just after the break but they couldn't double their lead as Swindon began to get a foothold in the match. Jones was then sent off 16 minutes from time for a second yellow as the Robins pushed for an equaliser. In the end, it wasn't to be as Wrexham, who are co-owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, rose to second in the table – four points behind leaders Stockport County, who drew with fourth-placed Barrow.

AdvertisementGettyTHE MVP

Wrexham were looking for a fast start and they got it through veteran star McClean, who finally scored his first goal for the club in the league. He was a threat throughout and took his goal well. His experience may be key in the race for promotion, too.

GettyTHE BIG LOSER

After scoring on his 100th league appearance for the Welsh side last time out, midfielder Jones received two bookings in the space of four minutes to put his team in a difficult position. They managed to hold on despite his actions, though.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Wrexham will round off a huge 2023, where they got promoted out of the National League and are in a strong position to jump up to League One, with an away trip to Walsall on December 29. They start 2024 against fellow promotion chasers Barrow on January 1.