Wrexham cruise to promotion with emphatic win over Charlton
Wrexham 3-0 Charlton Athletic
WREXHAM secured a famous third consecutive promotion as they comfortably beat Charlton Athletic 3-0 at the STōK Cae Ras, clinching their place in the Championship for the first time in over four decades.
With Wycombe Wanderers slipping to defeat earlier in the day, Phil Parkinson's side knew that a win would guarantee them second place in League One — and they delivered in style.
Ollie Rathbone fired the hosts into an early lead after 15 minutes with a low strike from outside the box, before Sam Smith doubled the advantage just three minutes later with a composed volley following Matty James' lofted pass.
Charlton struggled to recover from the quickfire double blow. Although Nathan Jones' men pushed for a response, Wrexham's well-organised defence — marshalled by Arthur Okonkwo in goal — stood firm to record their 23rd clean sheet of the campaign.
In front of jubilant Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Wrexham rounded off the win late on, as Smith rose highest to nod home Max Cleworth's cross in the 81st minute, sealing his second goal of the afternoon.
The result ended Charlton's hopes of automatic promotion. The Addicks, currently sitting fifth, will now turn their focus to the League One play-offs.
Key Moments
15′ – Goal: O. Rathbone (Wrexham)
18′ – Goal: S. Smith (Wrexham)
81′ – Goal: S. Smith (Wrexham)
Assists
M. James (15′, 18′)
M. Cleworth (81′)
Match Summary
Parkinson named an unchanged side following the vital win at Blackpool earlier in the week, while Charlton boss Nathan Jones — who had branded Wrexham a 'circus' before the game — made two changes to his team.
The match started evenly, but Wrexham took control with two quick goals, prompting chants from the home fans aimed at Jones' earlier remarks.
Charlton had a couple of half-chances, with Okonkwo making a sharp save from Tennai Watson, but it was Wrexham who looked the more dangerous throughout.
Late substitutions helped Wrexham see the game out comfortably before Smith's second goal sparked wild celebrations, marking a historic day for the club — who were playing in non-league football just two years ago.
Next Fixtures
Wrexham travel to Lincoln City for the final day of the season.
Charlton host Burton Albion ahead of their play-off campaign.
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