Phil Parkinson expressed his admiration for Ollie Rathbone, stating that the midfielder embodies the qualities he seeks in a Wrexham player after his dramatic equaliser against Watford.
The 29-year-old, who was awarded the club’s Player of the Season for 2024-25, faced a setback with an ankle injury during Wrexham’s pre-season tour in New Zealand and Australia.
Advertisement
Before his crucial goal against Watford, Rathbone’s only appearance this season was in the fourth round of the League Cup against Cardiff City. However, he scored during injury time to secure a 2-2 draw for the Red Dragons against the Hornets.
“I’m extremely happy for him,” Parkinson remarked. “Anyone here last year knows how vital he was, having some truly inspirational moments and being named player of the year.”
“After getting injured in pre-season, he had to bide his time for an opportunity, but he truly represents everything we strive for at Wrexham. His work ethic in training is remarkable, his attitude is superb, and he thoroughly deserved that moment today.”
Advertisement
Wrexham began energetically against Watford, taking the lead with Josh Windass’ sixth goal of the season. However, the visitors appeared to be on track for their second away league victory of the season when goals from Mamadou Doumbia and Othmane Maamma put Javi Gracia’s team ahead 2-1 before halftime.
In a dramatic second minute of added time, Rathbone delivered the decisive equaliser, helping Wrexham extend their unbeaten home league streak to eight matches.
“It was crucial to achieve that today, and I felt we earned it,” Parkinson commented on his team’s strong home performance. “When you’re striving to come back like we were, we did it in a controlled manner, and I was fairly pleased with that.”
“Some crosses could have been better, and we needed a bit more composure at the end, but I felt we managed to work our way back into the game very effectively.”
Wrexham’s majority owners Ryan Reynolds (left) and Rob McElhenney took control of the Welsh side in February 2021 [PA Media]
Majority owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney were present at the match, just days after the club announced an investment from Apollo Sports Capital.
Parkinson expressed his delight at being able to provide a positive result for the Hollywood duo. “Their presence lifts the entire atmosphere when they’re around, and it’s always a pleasure to see them,” he noted.
“I had a brief chat with them before the game; they visited the office around half past two while the players were warming up. It was wonderful to see Rob and Ryan, and I’m glad we could pull through for them.”