Wrexham defensive flaws worry Reynolds after home defeat

Wrexham players including Lewis Brunt show their dejection after defeat in their Championship opener (Illustrative image) (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) Getty Images

Wrexham suffered a sobering 3-2 defeat to West Bromwich Albion in their first Championship home game for 43 years. Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney watched from the stands as defensive frailties undermined their team's promising start at the Racecourse Ground.

The celebrity duo had invested heavily during the summer transfer window, bringing in Welsh internationals Danny Ward, Kieffer Moore and Nathan Broadhead. Broadhead's arrival from Ipswich Town for up to £10 million broke the club's transfer record, confirmed just days before the match.

Defensive weaknesses exposed

Isaac Price put West Brom ahead after 20 minutes when Tom Fellows outpaced James McClean on the wing. The visitors' second goal came through questionable defending, with former Leicester goalkeeper Ward beaten at his near post by Jed Wallace in the 74th minute.

Price completed his brace seven minutes later, nodding home Mikey Johnston's delivery as Wrexham's defensive shortcomings were ruthlessly punished. Away fans celebrated with chants of "F*** Hollywood" directed at the celebrity ownership during West Brom's dominant performance.

Record investment under scrutiny

Reynolds admitted feeling nervous before meeting new signing Broadhead in a pre-match ITV interview. The excitement surrounding the forward's arrival had dominated conversation in local pubs before kick-off, with supporters eager to see what the significant investment would yield.

Moore, who joined from Sheffield United for £2 million, impressed early alongside Josh Windass before the latter suffered a hamstring injury that forced his substitution. Lewis O'Brien equalised just before half-time, but it proved to be one of few highlights for the home side.

Championship reality check

Ward's selection ahead of Arthur Okonkwo raised eyebrows among supporters who expected the established number one to start. Okonkwo had recorded 19 clean sheets last season during Wrexham's promotion from League One, building a strong reputation at the club.

Summer signing Conor Coady represents the only defender with top-flight experience, while Lewis Brunt and Max Cleworth had never featured in the Championship before this campaign. Sam Smith managed a late consolation goal, but Wrexham remain pointless after two fixtures.

Despite the substantial summer spending, the defeat highlighted the significant step up to Championship level after three consecutive promotions. The Hollywood owners may need to invest further, particularly in defence, if they hope to realise their long-term Premier League ambitions.

Sources used: "Mirror", "WalesOnline" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.