Phil Parkinson unhappy not to get penalty as Wrexham held by late goal

Phil Parkinson felt his Wrexham side were denied a “stonewall” penalty as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Bradford.

Adam Wilson scored a late equaliser for the Bantams to deny Parkinson a winning return to the club he led to promotion and the League Cup final during a five-year reign.

Paul Mullin had headed Wrexham in front earlier in the second half, and Parkinson was disappointed that the striker was not awarded a first-half penalty by referee Ross Joyce for a challenge by Sam Stubbs.

He said: “How the ref hasn’t given that is incredible. We could all see from here that the lad’s slid in, caught him and pulled him down.

“It’s an absolute stonewall penalty. It’s 100 per cent a penalty and you’re crying out for better protection in open play for Mulls.

“I thought he got pushed into the hoardings in the second half but it is a physical game. That’s how we like it but I think when the ref looks back at it, he’ll see that it was a clear pen.”

Parkinson had been given a standing ovation by home fans when he walked out before kick-off.

“We had five great years here and loved every minute of it. That meant a lot today,” said the Wrexham boss.

“It was a hard-earned point. We knew it was going to be a feisty encounter coming here with a full house.

“It was fast and furious at times and, of course, when you go a goal ahead you want to take the three points. But we had to withstand pressure second half and the way we defended our box was outstanding.”

Attitude

Bradford have taken 10 points from the four games since Mark Hughes was sacked and Kevin McDonald took caretaker charge.

McDonald said: “I thought it was probably the best we’ve played over the course of 90 minutes.

“We were on the front foot and pressed well. We were just a little bit sloppy in the final third and needed more composure.

“I’m disappointed to get a point but, at the same time, they are a good team. I’m happy with the performance on the whole.

“We took control of the game and then their goal was a bit of a sucker punch. But to bounce back and then dominate for the last part was good to see.”

Wilson, who came through Newcastle’s academy, levelled with his first goal for the club.

McDonald added: “It’s brilliant. Ads was disappointed he didn’t start but it shows the mentality and attitude he’s got.

“Ads was not put on his favourite side, he prefers to play on the right, but he came on and played a huge part.

“I ask the lads to play what they see in the final third. Ads did exactly that and got his just rewards for sure.”