Goal hero Rathbone typifies Wrexham - Parkinson

Phil Parkinson says Ollie Rathbone typifies what he wants in a Wrexham player after the midfielder netted a last-gasp equaliser against Watford.

The 29-year-old - who won the club's Player of the Season award in 2024-25 - sustained an ankle injury during Wrexham's pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia.

His sole appearance this season prior to his last-gasp strike against Watford was against Cardiff City in the fourth round of the League Cup, but he scored in added time to earn the Red Dragons a 2-2 draw with the Hornets.

"I'm so pleased for him," Parkinson said.

"Those of you here last year know what a key player he was, player of the year with some inspirational moments throughout the season.

"He got injured in pre-season, he's had to wait patiently for his chance, but he typifies everything we want here at Wrexham.

"He trains so hard every day, his attitude is fantastic and he deserved that moment today."

Wrexham started on the front foot against Watford and led through Josh Windass' sixth goal of the season.

But the visitors looked on course for just a second away league win of the season as goals from Mamadou Doumbia and Othmane Maamma before half time put Javi Gracia's men 2-1 up.

Rathbone provided the pivotal moment in the second minute of added time though as Wrexham extended their unbeaten league run at home to eight matches.

"It was important we did that today and I felt we deserved it," Parkinson said of his side's impressive home form.

"When you're chasing the game like we were, I felt we did it in a controlled way and I was relatively pleased with that.

"Some of the crosses needed to be better and of course the final bit of composure, but I felt we worked our way back into the game in a very controlled way."

Majority owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac were both in attendance just days after the club announced they had received investment from Apollo Sports Capital.

And Parkinson was pleased his side were able to deliver a positive result for the Hollywood duo.

"They just lift the whole place when they're here and it's great to see them," added Parkinson.

"I spoke to them briefly before the game. They came over to the office at about half two when the lads were warming up. It was great to see Rob and Ryan and I'm pleased for them that we got back into it."