MATCH PREVIEW | WREXHAM
Promotion Favourites Next Up For Wanderers
Dorking will look to bounce back from a disappointing Bank Holiday Weekend this Saturday as Wrexham make their first ever visit down to Meadowbank.
Defeats away to Solihull Moors and at home to Boreham Wood last weekend set Wanderers back after what had been a positive start to their inaugural National League Premier campaign, picking up 7 points from 12 prior to the two defeats. Both games emphasised the fine margins and individual qualities amongst opposition that will continue to be a test in the many weeks and months ahead, and whilst Marc White acknowledged his side need to make improvements, the manager re-iterated in his weekly update that the club certainly 'won't panic' and will continue to trust the processes that have carried them successfully to this point.
The manager did concede 'we've not had the best of luck' so far in terms of injuries, confirming that Dan Lincoln, Isaac Philpot, Josh Taylor, Jimmy Muitt and Nicky Wheeler are all doubtful for Saturday's game, and that captain Barry Fuller has an 'outside chance' as he make's his return from the shattered toe injury suffered in the final game of pre-season. Dan Quick was not involved at all last Monday, after coming off the bench against Solihull just days after signing for the club he will be pushing for a first start and home debut this weekend.
Opposition Focus
To find out more about Saturday's opponents, take a read of our 'Opposition Focus' piece, reflecting on 'The Dragons' narrowly missing out on promotion last term, their key players and new recruits.
https://www.dorkingwanderers.com/post/opposition-focus-wrexham
The Fan's View
with the hosts of the brilliant 'Fearless In Devotion' podcast (@fearlessidzine).
Thank you for taking the time to speak to us. It would be remiss not to mention the documentary that has just been released (Welcome To Wrexham, Disney +). What's the mood like around the club at the moment and just how much impact have the owners had around the place since the takeover?
The mood is one of optimism and pride. Optimism due to the squad we've assembled, one which should be more than good enough to finally get us promoted. Pride because of the documentary, which is proving to be a hit around the world. It really captures what the town, club and the people are all about. The owners almost take a back seat in proceedings, which is testament to their humility and ensuring this isn't all about them.
Last season the title race went right to the wire between yourselves and Stockport, and then unfortunately defeat followed in the semi-final stages of the play-offs. How do you reflect back on last season and why do you think the club came up just short?
Ultimately it was disappointing. We did well to reel in and overhaul Stockport briefly but I point to the injury of defender Aaron Hayden as the turning point. Very little gets past him. If he played the entire season then I don't think we'd be having this conversation right now. His contribution is just as important as that of Paul Mullin.
Where have the club looked to strengthen in the summer and of the new signing's has anyone already caught the eye?
Elliot Lee has been the one so far. He hasn't started every game but he has changed a couple of them in our favour from the bench. Anyone who drops down from Championship level to this league is going to be a class above. However, despite strengthening across the team our midfield is still not quite where we want it to be.
Who are the key players from last season we should keep an eye out for?
Paul Mullin, Jordan Davies, Hayden, Max Cleworth. Experience and youth, all proving their class game after game.
What do you make of the club's start to the season so far?
Solid if not spectacular. It's a reasonable points return after what seemed a shoddy pre-season programme. We haven't hit top gear yet, so watch out...
We are look forward to welcoming Wrexham fans to Meadowbank on September 3rd. What was the most memorable away day for the club last season?
Personally it was Chesterfield away. We were outclassed in the first half and should have been dead and buried. It was somehow goalless at half time but after the break we were a different animal. Ollie Palmer scored twice and the away end resembled a giant mosh pit.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Just another 'W' to the Wrexham form column on Saturday please!
KEY INFO
Tickets (last few remaining!):
https://dorkingwanderersfc.ktckts.com/event/dor2223h04/wrexham
Entry: Adults £16 / Concessions £13 / U18s £8 / U8s £4
Location: Meadowbank Football Ground, Mill Lane, Dorking, RH4 1DX
Kick-Off: 15:00
Join us for a drink in the FanZone, open to supporters from 1pm!
Matchday Programme: £3 (physical copies only, available at ground)
Not attending Saturday's match?
Gary Pascoe will be providing matchday commentary via Mixlr, stay tuned to our social media channels for more information.
We will be providing action and score updates throughout the afternoon via Twitter (@DorkingWDRS)
VISITING FANS INFORMATION: Getting to Meadowbank, where to grab a pre-match drink beforehand and more...
https://www.dorkingwanderers.com/visiting-supporters