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
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