Wrexham secures promotion push amid fan altercation, controversial penalty

Wrexham's 1-0 victory over Stockport County was marred by controversy, particularly surrounding a contentious penalty awarded in the first half. James McClean, the Wrexham captain, was involved in an altercation with a Stockport fan, who was ejected after allegedly attempting to punch him as he left the pitch. The penalty, which Jay Rodriguez converted after a saved initial effort, was awarded after a discussion between the referee and linesman regarding a handball, causing outrage among Stockport fans and players. Stockport manager Dave Challinor criticized the officiating, claiming it cost his team a crucial point in their promotion battle, while fans vented their frustration on social media, blaming McClean for influencing the decision. Despite the win, Wrexham's performance was described as workmanlike, with the match featuring 11 yellow cards and a late red card for Stockport's Brad Hills. The victory kept Wrexham in the automatic promotion spots in League One, three points ahead of third-placed Wycombe.