Club or country. Wales or Wrexham. This is a decision some supporters will have to make.
Scheduling set the fifth of June to be memorable for Welsh Football. With the nation ninety minutes away from the World cup, for the first time since their fixture against Brazil in 1958. Scotland or Ukraine standing in the way. A match at the Cardiff City stadium bringing the impressive qualifying campaign to an end. However, the northern based minnows may be in an important game themselves. Potentially competing in the national league play off final. Taking place at the London Stadium, two hours before the affair begins in the Welsh capital. Leaving spectators with a difficult choice.
Now owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny. Wrexham sit second in the National League, seven points behind leaders Stockport County. Five matches left to play in the regular season. Since their takeover, the club has seen a dramatic rise in attention Tok being chosen as the teams front of shirt sponsors. Leading to an increase in attendances at the Racecourse ground, as well as media attention. Joining them in the race for the second promotion spot. Halifax, Solihull Moors, Chesterfield, Grimsby and Notts County still fighting for a spot in the play offs. Creating tough competition for the small Welsh side.
Releasing a statement. The club announced their disappointment. Stating "The club, like the FAW had asked that every effort be made to see if a clash with Wales’ World Cup qualifier against Scotland or Ukraine could be avoided," before adding ‘While the kick-off times are different, the reality is that fans will have to make a choice between which of the games they want to watch live, in person. We are aware that the representations were taken seriously, and the decision taken by the National League was simply down to the lack of any alternative date or stadium to host the game. The date for the National League play-off game was announced at the start of the season and it couldn't have been envisaged that a World Cup play-off game would need to be scheduled on the same day. The disappointment of the potential clash is shared by everyone, and should the club compete in the National League Play-Off Final, we hope that it becomes a momentous and memorable day for football in Wales.” Further contributing to the discussion was the Chief Executive of the Wales FA. Noel Maloney testifying "The FAW are disappointed that a resolution has not been found and would like to wish Wrexham the best of luck in their bid for promotion." In backing of Wrexham.
For the second time teams will not be able to play under England’s iconic arch. Having seen last year’s edition played at Ashton Gate, as a result of the delayed Euro 2020 tournament. Which saw the men’s national team reach a final for the first time in many years. The women’s side proving to be more successful for the three lions.
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