Wrexham AFC kicked off their "Wrexham Down Under" tour with a commanding 3-0 victory over Melbourne Victory in a pre-season friendly at Marvel Stadium
First Half: Wrexham Break the Deadlock
The match began with both sides showing early intent, with Melbourne Victory looking to impose their style under head coach Arthur Diles. The home side’s starting XI featured new signings Louis D’Arrigo and Keegan Jelacic alongside familiar faces like captain Roderick Miranda and Brazilian winger Clerismario Santos. Victory created early chances, with Santos forcing an important save from Wrexham’s goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo in the third minute.
Wrexham grew into the game as the half progressed. Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Jack Duncan was called into action, making a superb stretching save in the 26th minute to deny a certain goal. However, Wrexham’s persistence paid off in the 42nd minute when Tom O’Connor found the back of the net with a composed finish from outside the box, capitalizing on a loose ball to give the Red Dragons a 1-0 lead at halftime.
Tommy with our first ever goal in Australia 🙌
— Wrexham AFC (@Wrexham_AFC) July 11, 2025
🔴⚪️ #WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/fGWDZyZCWW
Despite Victory’s bright start, the home side struggled to convert their chances. An unfortunate moment saw Santos substituted in the 37th minute after an unexpected injury, with young attacker Jing Reec stepping in.
Second Half: Wrexham’s Depth Shines
The second half saw both teams turn to their benches, with Melbourne Victory introducing a host of youngsters, including Daniel Graskoski, Jack Mihailidis, and Toby Obani, to gain valuable minutes. Wrexham, meanwhile, brought on fresh legs to maintain their momentum. They doubled their lead in the 66th minute when new signing Ryan Hardie, recently acquired from Plymouth Argyle, converted a low cross from Ryan Barnett to mark his debut with a goal.
First appearance and first goal for @Ryanhardie9 👏
— Wrexham AFC (@Wrexham_AFC) July 11, 2025
🔴⚪️ #WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/J8n7lb5aCw
Wrexham’s dominance was sealed in the 78th minute when George Evans capitalized on a blocked shot from Hardie, firing a clinical strike from outside the box to make it 3-0. The Welsh side’s physicality and clinical finishing proved too much for Victory, who, despite their efforts, couldn’t find a way past Wrexham’s organized defence.
Final Score
Melbourne Victory 0-3 Wrexham AFC
Goals: Tom O’Connor (42’), Ryan Hardie (66’), George Evans (78’)
Venue: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
Kick-off: 7:30 PM AEST
Broadcast: Paramount+
Wrexham's clinical performance sent a strong message, while Melbourne Victory will take valuable lessons into their pre-season preparations. As Wrexham’s star continues to rise, their Australian adventure has begun with a statement win.
