Wrexham Stumbles, Hull Climbs to Playoffs

The match that could have lifted Wrexham into the playoffs ended in a 2‑2 draw against Middlesbrough. The result let Hull City overtake them for the final playoff spot after a 2‑1 victory over Norwich. Hull’s goal, scored by Oli McBurnie in the 67th minute, seemed offside but was not reviewed. Wrexham’s string of three consecutive promotions is now halted. They moved up from the fifth tier in 2022‑23 and then to the Championship, a rise highlighted by the popular “Welcome to Wrexham” series. Ipswich Town finished second in the table, earning automatic promotion after a 3‑0 win over Queens Park Rangers.They will rejoin the Premier League alongside champions Coventry City next season. The playoff field now includes Hull, Millwall, Southampton and Middlesbrough. Matches will be played over two legs beginning next week. Despite the disappointment, Wrexham had a notable season in their first Championship campaign since the 1980s. Players appeared dejected on the pitch after the final whistle, even though Hull’s game was still underway. Earlier in the day Wrexham were sixth on goal difference, but a fourth‑minute goal from Middlesbrough shifted the momentum. They rallied to take a 2‑1 lead through Josh Windass and Sam Smith before the match settled at 2‑2.