Wrexham produced a sensational second-half fightback to defeat Sheffield United 5-3 in a breathless Championship encounter at the Racecourse Ground on Boxing Day. The star of the show was striker Kieffer Moore, who scored a crucial brace against the club he left in the summer.
Moore Silences Critics with Decisive Double
Wales international Kieffer Moore delivered a perfect response to his critics, playing a pivotal role in overturning a two-goal deficit. The 33-year-old, who managed just six league goals in 30 appearances for the Blades last season, has already hit double figures for Wrexham following his £2million move.
Moore had faced sarcastic chants from the travelling Sheffield United supporters during the match, particularly after the visitors raced into a commanding lead. However, his two headed goals proved instrumental in the remarkable turnaround. After the final whistle, Moore admitted the criticism had motivated him. "Yes, absolutely," he said when asked if the fans' jibes had spurred him on.
A Boxing Day Rollercoaster at the Racecourse
The match was a classic of dramatic twists. Former Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford volleyed Sheffield United ahead after just seven minutes, only for Wrexham to equalise quickly via a Tyler Bindon own goal. Bamford then added a second, and a header from Callum O'Hare made it 3-1 to the Blades before the break.
Moore's first goal before half-time gave the Red Dragons a lifeline. After the interval, Ryan Longman's header drew the sides level, before Moore powered Wrexham into the lead for the first time. Josh Windass sealed the victory with a confidently taken late penalty, ending Wrexham's five-match winless run and lifting them to 13th in the table.
Wilder's Regret and Parkinson's Pride
The result left a bitter taste for Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder, who expressed regret that Moore was allowed to leave the club. Wilder, who returned for a third spell in charge in September, stressed the sale was agreed by previous management. "It had nothing to do with me," Wilder stated, "but I know what he'd be doing now and he wouldn't be wearing a Wrexham shirt."
In contrast, Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson was delighted with his team's resilience. "It was a bit of a surreal kind of feel to the game and obviously I'm delighted," Parkinson said. He praised his players for defending better in the second half and taking their chances when they came. The victory marks a significant moment in Wrexham's Championship campaign, showcasing their fighting spirit against a high-calibre opponent.
