IT wasn't pretty but Wrexham got the win they needed against Southend United at The Racecourse to remain in contention for automatic promotion.

Phil Parkinson's side produced a flat first half performance but Ollie Palmer's 14th goal for the Reds from Jordan Davies' cross just two minutes after the break secured a vital 1-0 victory.

Second placed Wrexham are only one point behind National League leaders Stockport, who lost 2-1 at home to Boreham Wood, with three games to go, although the Hatter have played a match less.

Here's how the players rated.

CHRISTIAN DIBBLE: Pulled off some important saves, especially one in the second half to keep the Reds ahead. 7

REECE HALL-JOHNSON: Wasn’t allowed to make much headway down the right by Southend and replaced by Hosannah. 6

TYLER FRENCH: Produced a superb defensive display and close to a goal with Wrexham’s best chance of the first half. 7

BEN TOZER: Made a vital first half block and was a rock at the heart of defence to keep Southend out. 7

MAX CLEWORTH: The teenager did his bit at the back and was always on hand to support attacks. 7

LIAM MCALINDEN: More effective attacking-wise in second half. 6

JAMES JONES: Never stopped running and broke up a lot of play before he got attacks going. 7

LUKE YOUNG: It was a battle and the captain never shirked responsibility as Wrexham ground out a win. 6

JORDAN DAVIES: Supplied the cross which Palmer converted to secure a vital victory. 6

PAUL MULLIN: The chances he had never went in but kept going. 6

OLLIE PALMER: Got the all-important goal and worked hard even when things weren’t going well for the Reds. 7

SUBSTITUTES

BRYCE HOSANNAH: Returned from injury. 5

TOM O’CONNOR: Showed some glimpses. 6

JORDAN PONTICELLI: A late substitute. 5