LONDON — They say in Hollywood, the third act is where the hero finally overcomes the impossible. But for Wrexham AFC, it seems the script is still being written in real-time—and the budget just went through the roof.
Yesterday’s heart-stopping 3-2 victory over Queens Park Rangers wasn’t just another win; it was a seismic shift in the English football landscape. For the first time in their history, the Red Dragons have soared into the Championship playoff spots, officially sitting 6th in the table.
Deadpool’s Stoppage-Time Thriller
If Ryan Reynolds was looking for content for the next season of Welcome to Wrexham, Loftus Road provided enough drama to win an Emmy. Trailing 2-1 as the clock hit 90 minutes, the Red Dragons looked destined for a mid-table stalemate.
Then came the “Deadpool” effect—a relentless, chaotic refusal to die:
- The Equalizer: In the 93rd minute, veteran forward Josh Windass scrambled the ball home, igniting the away end.
- The Winner: In the 95th minute, Oliver Rathbone silenced the London crowd with a thunderous 30-yard strike that clipped the underside of the bar and went in.
The scenes at the final whistle weren’t just about three points. They were about the realization that this isn’t just a documentary project anymore—it’s a genuine promotion charge toward the Premier League.
The Championship Standings: January 2026
The race for the top flight has never been more crowded. Wrexham is now breathing down the necks of some of England’s most established clubs.
The Hollywood Effect: Why It’s Working
When Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought a struggling club in the National League, skeptics called it a vanity project. Fast forward to 2026, and the “Hollywood Effect” is visible in every facet of the club:
- Mental Fortitude: Much like a superhero recovery, this team specializes in late goals. They have gained more points from losing positions than any other team in the Championship this season.
- Smart Recruitment: Bringing in players like Josh Windass—who understands the grind of the English tiers—has balanced the glamour with grit.
- Global Momentum: The commercial revenue from their global following has allowed Phil Parkinson to build a squad that doesn’t just survive in this league but dictates games.
“I’ve played in a lot of matches, but this club is different,” Oliver Rathbone said after his winner. “The belief that something special is happening here is infectious. We aren’t just here to participate; we’re here to go up.”
What’s Next?
Wrexham faces a massive test next week against Sheffield Wednesday. A win could see them climb as high as 4th, depending on other results. With the January transfer window still open, rumors are swirling that the owners might be looking for one more “superhero” signing to clinch that playoff spot
