Wrexham welcome Bristol Rovers to the Racecourse on Friday afternoon. Another crucial game for the Dragons and for the Gas too.
Wrexham and Bristol Rovers are at opposing ends of the League One table sitting in 2nd and 21st respectively. And Friday’s game is a crucial one for both.
Phil Parkinson’s side have just a point lead over Wycombe Wanderers in 3rd as they vie for a third-straight promotion under owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, whilst Bristol Rovers are inside the drop zone only in goal difference
Manager Inigo Calderon has said his Bristol Rovers players aren’t good enough for League One in a quite eye-opening statement ahead of Friday. But he’s at least had something positive to say about Wrexham.
Bristol Rovers boss recalls playing Wrexham at the Racecourse
Speaking to Bristol Live, Calderon recalled how he played against Wrexham in the FA Cup many years ago. As a player Calderon represented Brighton for six years – his only English club making 232 total appearances for the Seagulls and helping them to League One promotion in 2011.
And recalling his few memories of Wrexham as a club, Calderon admitted that the Dragons at their historic Racecourse house have always boasted a good atmosphere, and a fanbase proud to support the club too.
Calderon said: “I played there in the FA Cup a long time ago when they were low. To be fair, I have to say, I like the atmosphere there and the crowd and [how] proud they feel with this football club. I think it’s great.
“It’s true that there’s been a lot of noise around, but I don’t know too much about that. I didn’t watch the movies or the documentary. I don’t have time for that. But it’s true that I have a lot of respect for what they’re doing. That is not easy. But as I say, we have a lot of things to worry about.”
Which Wrexham game is Inigo Calderon referring to?
Calderon played against Wrexham with his Brighton side during the 2011/12 season. Then a newly-promoted Championship club, Brighton drew then Conference side Wrexham in the FA Cup third round.
And the Dragons caused an upset by taking the game to a replay at the Racecourse which is when Calderon would’ve played at the ground. Ahead of Friday, Wrexham have been backed to beat Calderon’s Bristol Rovers who’ll be out to cause an upset.
For him to say that the fans were passionate and proud then is a reminder that Wrexham’s history goes well beyond the years of Reynolds and McElhenney, who are no doubt ushering the golden years of the club’s history.
