Chelsea twice came from behind to beat 10-man Wrexham 4-2 in a dramatic FA Cup tie, ending the Hollywood-owned club’s fairytale run in extra time
CHELSEA twice came from behind to deny Hollywood-owned Wrexham a fairytale FA Cup triumph, edging past the second-tier side 4-2 after extra time.
The visitors progressed to the quarter-finals in a captivating contest at the Racecourse Ground. Wrexham, watched by co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, took an early lead through Sam Smith.
Chelsea were level courtesy of an Arthur Okonkwo own goal shortly before half-time. Callum Doyle put the Welsh team back ahead with a brilliant flick in the 78th minute.
Josh Acheampong equalised again just four minutes later to force extra time. The game’s complexion changed when George Dobson was sent off in stoppage time following a VAR review.
Alejandro Garnacho volleyed Chelsea ahead in the first period of extra time. Joao Pedro’s late strike then added gloss to the scoreline for the Premier League side.
Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior made nine changes to his starting team. His side struggled to break down Phil Parkinson’s organised Wrexham for long periods.
In-form Wrexham had earlier put out Premier League club Nottingham Forest in this competition. They are targeting a fourth-consecutive promotion to reach the top flight.
The home side started the second half on the front foot, roared on by a passionate crowd. Rosenior responded by bringing on forwards Marc Guiu and Marc Cucurella.
Wrexham continued to make life uncomfortable for the Club World Cup champions. Josh Windass later missed a glorious chance to put Wrexham ahead for a third time.
Pedro Neto rattled the bar for Chelsea in a frantic finale to normal time. Wrexham thought they had equalised in extra time through Lewis Brunt.
That effort was ruled out for offside following another VAR intervention. Chelsea now turn their attentions to a Champions League last-16 date with Paris Saint-Germain.
Wrexham will continue their push to reach the Premier League via the Championship.
The Sun Malaysia
