PHIL PARKINSON declared himself happy with the work-out despite seeing Wrexham exit the FA Trophy following Friday's penalty shoot-out defeat against Altrincham.

The Reds boss named a completely different side to the one that started the 2-1 midweek win over Bromley as he gave fringe players and youngsters a chance to impress in the FA Trophy fourth round tie.

Altrincham were well on top in the opening exchanges at Moss Lane and took an early lead but Jake Bickerstaff scored twice in three minutes to give the Reds the lead at half-time.

Wrexham were heading for a place in the fifth round but Altrincham grabbed an 89th minute equaliser and won 4-3 on spot-kicks, although Parkinson preferred to look at the bigger picture as players got valuable minutes under their belt, with some catching his eye.

"We started a little slowly, we were second best for the first 10-15 minutes but after that we grew into the game," said Parkinson.

"The lads played with a real commitment and quality as well at times.

"I thought the front two were a real handful, two great goals from Jake Bickerstaff and Sam Dalby led the line really well.

"But all round there were some really good performances.

"Young Scott Butler came in and I thought he put in a very accomplished performance; it was a shame he cramped up towards the end.

"We had to change the back three around towards the end of the game and it disrupted us but all in all, there are a lot of positives."

Bickerstaff, who also scored in the third round win against Scunthorpe, saw Altrincham goalkeeper Ollie Byrne pull off a superb save to keep-out the first penalty.

Reece Hall-Johnson put his spot-kick over the bar and although Sam Dalby, captain for the night James Jones and Harry Lennon were successful from 12 yards, Altrincham converted four of their attempts to move into the last 16.

"It is always disappointing to lose on penalties but they took them better than us, simple as that," added Parkinson.

"You can't do anything about that.

"I thought the keeper made a great save from Jake.

"You always want to win and go through but it was a really good night's work for us and so many positives.

"The FA Trophy is way down our priority list, everybody knows that, but in terms of the work ethic of the lads, I thought they were excellent."

Wrexham resume their National League title challenge with two successive away games, with next Saturday's trip to Maidstone United followed by another away game at Gateshead on Tuesday January 24.

The Reds then turn their attention to the FA Cup and the fourth round tie against Championship high-fliers Sheffield United at The Racecourse has been selected for live television coverage.

BBC One will screen the game which will now take place on Sunday, January 29, 4.30pm kick-off.