MARK CARRINGTON insists Wrexham still fancy their chances of reaching the FA Cup second round despite failing to make the most of home advantage.
The Reds had the better of the opportunities in Sunday's first round tie at The Racecourse, twice hitting the woodwork and going close on a number of occasions as the game finished in a goalless draw.
League One Rochdale will be favourites to progress when the teams meet in next Tuesday's replay at Spotland but Carrington says Wrexham, struggling at the wrong end of the National League, cannot be discounted.
"We had a good, strong shape and nullified everything Rochdale threw at us," said Carrington.
"And we definitely looked more like scoring and probably should have scored, we had a lot more chances.
"Ben Tollitt had a good chance and then hit the post with a great strike.
"Akil Wright had one deflected onto the post and could have had a penalty so when you look back it, there are some good positives to take from the game.
"We feel we should have had it wrapped up and don't have to play another game at their place but we will go there and give it our best.
"There is no reason why we can't go there and win."
Despite their lowly league position, Carrington feeling Wrexham are starting to turn the corner under Dean Keates.
"As you can see, we have got a good structure now and we are looking a bit more solid so if we can start scoring some goals," said Carrington.
"We are building some momentum and we are going in the right direction. We just need to keep that going and take it one game at a time."
Carrington, the longest serving player in Keates' squad, has fond memories of the FA Cup.
The 32-year-old gave Wrexham the lead against then-Premier League side Stoke City in the third round of the competition in January 2015 before the Potters hit back to win 3-1, and he would love the Reds to go on another cup run.
"I said to the lads on Friday that it is FA Cup week and I have not done one interview!" said Carrington, who arrived at The Racecourse in September 2013.
"Everyone has forgotten now, it has been so long!
"I am due another one now I think so let's get to the third round and get a big team."
Wrexham turn their attention to the Scottish Challenge Cup before the Rochdale re-match with the Reds facing Rangers Colts at Ibrox Stadium on Saturday.
Carrington is no stranger to facing Gers having played against them during a short spell with Hamilton Academical, going down 1-0 at New Douglas Park in 2011.
"We have got a big squad so it is a good chance to get minutes into the lads," said Carrington.
"It is a chance for the gaffer to try stuff.
"I have played against Rangers before when I was at Hamilton so it doesn't really matter to me.
"We got beat 1-0 and I played centre-half that day. I think Nikica Jelavic is still in my pocket so if I go back, I will let him out!
"If I am asked to play, I will be delighted to play but if not, it doesn't matter.
"I am a footballer and if they say jump, I say how high."
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