Just three weeks into the season and yet the images at full-time seemed more like the tail-end of a long campaign.

Players in both red and blue fell to their haunches as the whistle sounded, some out of exhaustion, some perhaps in exasperation.

For Wednesday, whose fans' chants of protest went from defiance to delight as the game swayed their way, and the players who had gone without a proper pre-season because of the issues at the club, it was the relief of finding reward for their efforts.

They could have easily been blown away such was the comfort in which Wrexham found themselves so early on.

But the visiting side mirrored the mindset of the fans who are refusing to give up hope, sensing Wrexham are still finding their way.

When Wrexham wobbled, they went for it.

The problem for Phil Parkinson's side is that, despite it being so early into their first season at this level in more than four decades, there is no time like the present.

With a raft of new signings and others getting up to speed or reacquainted with this level, things aren't quite cohesive.

Although this turned out not to be the afternoon to introduce new Manchester City arrival Callum Doyle who remained in the bench, Nathan Broadhead's first start had flashes of quality – but not often enough on the same wavelength as others.

It will come and there was much about Wrexham's play that impressed and encouraged, including Moore getting off the mark.

But they will not be able to stop the pressure coming with every week that goes by without a win.

This will be seen as a missed opportunity against beleaguered opposition.

It could prove a significant moment, even this early on, with Wrexham now challenged in how they respond.

And so too Wednesday; a first point and some glimmer of hope that they still have plenty to fight for.

Wednesday welcome Yorkshire rivals for an EFL Cup tie on Tuesday, Premier League Leeds United visiting Hillsborough on Tuesday, 26 August (20:00 BST) for a game that some fans are looking to boycott.

In terms of the Championship it's the visit of Swansea City next Saturday.

Wrexham, meanwhile, travel to Deepdale for an all-Championship EFL Cup contest with Preston North End before taking on Millwall at The Den in the Championship on Saturday, 30 August (15:00 BST).

Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson:

"We showed we looked like a Championship team in the first half and a League One side after the break.

"We were terrific to start but credit to Sheffield Wednesday for the way they responded, but we never got a grip of the ball, gave it away too cheaply and put ourselves under pressure.

"At the end, players were out on their feet because we were stretched and didn't retain possession – and at this level if you give the ball away you get punished.

"We are showing we can compete but we have to find a way to sustain performances right through the game."

Sheffield Wednesday boss Henrik Pedersen:

"The big picture is that I'm very, very proud.

"After we conceded we struggled so we changed things and were able to put in a strong defensive performance and helped us to a great second half.

"We had nearly 60% of possession in the second half and created a lot. I really think the boys showed what they are standing for.

"They were 2-0 down but they stayed together, the belief was there. How they expressed themselves in a difficult period and trust they showed, it was impressive.

"It showed our culture is strong and our players are ready to do everything for our club."

Key

• Position1, 2:Promotion
• Position3, 4, 5, 6:Promotion Play-off
• Position22, 23, 24:Relegation

Last Updated23rd August 2025 at 20:49