Wrexham lifted by McElhenney speech - Parkinson

Phil Parkinson revealed club co-owner Rob McElhenney delivered a speech to the Wrexham squad before their crucial League One victory at Blackpool on Monday.

The Red Dragons beat the Seasiders 2-1 at Bloomfield Road thanks to goals from James McClean and Ollie Rathbone, with Rob Apter netting a late consolation for the hosts.

Victory lifted Wrexham back up to second place in the third tier following Wycombe Wanderers' shock 4-0 loss at home to Charlton Athletic.

Hollywood actor McElhenney joined around 2,000 Wrexham fans in the away end at Blackpool, and Parkinson said his players were grateful for the American's words on the eve of the crunch contest.

"I've always said that it's a team effort," said Parkinson.

"The chairman Rob was with us yesterday and did a great talk with the lads about what his feelings were in this situation, and our lads love that."

McElhenney, 48, posed for photographs with Wrexham supporters and joined in with celebrations during the course of what could prove a pivotal victory for the Welsh club against Steve Bruce's side.

They now lead Wycombe by two points with just two matches remaining this season as they bid to secure an historic third successive promotion.

Wrexham sit four points above the Chairboys' conquerors Charlton, who they face at the Stok Cae Ras next Saturday (17:30 BST).

And Parkinson says he wants the ground to be "rocking" as his side look to take another step towards clinching the second League One automatic promotion spot behind champions Birmingham City.

"It's brilliant - the support was good today," said Parkinson.

"I want more of the same next week from the supporters at home. I've got to be honest with you, I want that place bouncing - these lads deserve it.

"We've come a long, long way this season. We've shaken off a lot of big clubs in this division. We need everybody in the ground to create an atmosphere and get the Racecourse bouncing to help the team as much as we can."

Following the Charlton game, Wrexham sign off the regular season at Lincoln City on Saturday, 3 May (15:00 BST).