Wrexham within one point of league leaders Stockport after victory over Southend

Ollie Palmer’s 22nd goal of the season proved enough for promotion-chasing Wrexham to beat Southend 1-0 in the Vanarama National League, bringing them within a point of league leaders Stockport.

Vanarama National League leaders Stockport offered Wrexham a glimmer of hope of automatic promotion in the race to be crowned champions after losing 2-1 to Boreham Wood.

Palmer made the crucial breakthrough for the second-placed side just two minutes after the interval, converting Jordan Davies’ cross at the far post. The 30-year-old has now scored 14 in 19 matches since joining from AFC Wimbledon in January.

The striker was narrowly wide with a spectacular effort from inside his own half in added time with Southend goalkeeper Steve Arnold out of position having gone upfield for a corner.

Hosts Wrexham were indebted to goalkeeper Christian Dibble for an important save to deny Jason Demetriou and secures a victory which keeps up the pressure on leaders Stockport.

Volley

Stockport still have a match in hand and remain favourites for a return to League Two after an 11-year absence, despite suffering a fourth defeat of the season.

Dennon Lewis put the visitors ahead in the 24th minute after capitalising on a mis-control from Ash Palmer to run through and score his first goal in almost eight months.

Jamal Fyfield fired home at the second attempt in the 61st minute to double their lead against the run of play but there was late drama as Elliot Newby’s half-volley beat Nathan Ashmore in the 90th minute.

In the final minute of five added on, Myles Hippolyte’s volley struck the inside of the post as Stockport narrowly failed to snatch a draw.