Louie Barry stunner seals victory for Stockport County
Stockport County 1 - 0 Wrexham
Louie Barry’s stunning goal proved the difference as Stockport County edged a crucial League One top-six clash with a 1-0 win over Wrexham.
Just a few years ago, these teams were battling it out in Non-League, but on this occasion, Wrexham rarely threatened, and Stockport deservedly claimed the points.
The match began evenly, but Barry’s moment of brilliance broke the deadlock. When Ollie Norwood’s effort was blocked, the ball fell to Barry, who turned sharply and unleashed a sublime shot into the top corner.
Stockport pressed for a second, with Will Collar coming close after nicking the ball off defender Tom O’Connor, only for his effort to be deflected wide. Moments later, Wrexham goalkeeper Callum Burton kept his side in the contest with a brilliant double save. First, he stretched to tip Collar’s header from Barry’s cross, then recovered quickly to block Fraser Horsfall’s follow-up.
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As Wrexham struggled to cope with Stockport’s pressure, a clearing header landed at Norwood’s feet, and his ambitious first-time volley from 25 yards sailed just over the bar.
The second half saw more missed opportunities for the hosts. Ethan Pye headed over, while Burton continued to frustrate Barry and Kyle Wootton with more fine saves.
Wrexham had one golden opportunity to rescue a point late on. James McClean’s pinpoint cross found Elliot Lee unmarked in the box, but the forward’s header drifted wide, leaving the Dragons to rue their missed chance.
The best reaction
Jamie, a Stockport fan, told European Super Football: "We achieved a different kind of victory this week, but it's just as satisfying. We demonstrated great character, and we successfully prevented the opposing team from taking any significant shots on goal. It was a strong defensive effort from the entire team."
Jennie, a Wrexham fan, gave her thoughts: "Our goalkeeper had an excellent performance. I'm very pleased for him. While he will certainly be happy with his showing, the most important aspect is that the team secures a result, which we unfortunately were unable to achieve. However, I don’t think he could have done much more on that day. All of the fans were impressed with him."
