Wrexham advances to the FA Cup Round of 16 for the first time in 29 years.
Wrexham marked another significant achievement in their rapid ascent under the stewardship of actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, as they advanced to the last 16 of England’s FA Cup for the first time since 1997 on Friday.
Wrexham secured a 1-0 victory against fellow Championship side Ipswich Town in north Wales, earning their spot in the fifth round draw after a 29-year hiatus.
Josh Windass netted the sole goal of the match in the 34th minute, securing the win for Phil Parkinson’s team.
Friday’s victory marked the second occasion this FA Cup season that Wrexham has triumphed over an opponent ranked higher, having previously defeated Premier League side Nottingham Forest in the last round.
Wrexham will learn the identity of their next opponent when the fifth round draw takes place on Monday.
By making 10 changes for this match, Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna signaled that his focus is on the upcoming league rematch.
The lack of familiarity in Ipswich’s lineup played to Wrexham’s advantage, but after failing to capitalize on a goalkeeper error in the opening minute, it took them some time to find their rhythm in the match.
They nearly took the lead when Alex Palmer ventured out of his area to clear a long ball but failed to make solid contact.
Windass retrieved the ball on the flank and delivered a cross into the box for Sam Smith, but Palmer managed to recover in time to block his shot.
There was little to excite the crowd on a chilly evening until Windass struck in the 34th minute. George Thomason’s cross from the left was overhit, but Ryan Longman managed to recover on the opposite side and set up Windass for the finish.
Ollie Rathbone came close to extending the lead shortly after, turning at the edge of the box, but Palmer executed a remarkable one-handed save to deflect his curling shot.
In a lively conclusion to a largely uneventful first half, Thomason delivered a dangerous low cross, but Ipswich successfully cleared the danger.
The visitors threatened after the break when a long throw-in from Jens Cajuste resulted in a goalmouth scramble, but Arthur Okonkwo denied Chuba Akpom on the line. Max Cleworth also blocked an effort from Akpom, and Elkan Baggott shot wide.
Ipswich’s increased urgency pushed Wrexham back for an extended period, but they withstood the pressure, and Windass forced a save from Palmer from a wide position.
Windass had additional chances but saw another shot blocked before Palmer managed to handle a glancing header.
Palmer advanced for a late corner as Ipswich sought to push for extra time, but Wrexham held firm for a memorable victory.
PA contributed to this report.
