The Wrexham Red Dragons recorded another impressive victory at the The Soccer Tournament as they brushed aside US Women 12-0.
Wrexham made a fast start to the competition, which is taking place in North Carolina, as they earned a 3-2 win over Cesc Fabregas’ Como. Later in the day, the Welsh side backed up that win by beating the US Women comfortably.
Former Swansea hero Lee Trundle scored four for the Red Dragons on a memorable day as they all but secured their place in the knockout stages. First-team goalkeeper Mark Howard also featured as David Jones’ side stormed to victory.
Speaking after the game, Trundle said: “I think it’s great especially to be involved in a tournament like this and for myself to get back with some old ex-teammates and get out on the pitch.
“The setup, the way they’ve done the tournament and the concept of it as well where you have to score that winning goal, we’ve seen today the best of that.”
Howard added: “The growth of the club, especially out here, is massive.That’s one of the reasons why as a current player I volunteered myself. I wanted to embrace what we’ve got going on now. It’s enjoyable. It’s amazing to come out and see the fans. You expect a little bit but you don’t know how much you’ll get because you’re not used to that exposure.
“Obviously we’re lower-level English tiers, so to come out here and we’re treated like the top Premier League teams, it’s an amazing feeling. The American supporters are so positive. The tournament’s amazing. We’re really enjoying our time.”
Wrexham face Say Word FC in their final game of the group phase on Friday, before entering the knockout stage. As for the US Women, Heather O'Reilly, who led the side after winning the World Cup with their country, was proud of their performance despite facing 39 shots against the Red Dragons.
She said: “We're super proud, so happy to be here at this event. Hopefully we've proven to anybody, just go for it, just live. What's the worst thing that could happen? We could lose 16-0 to Wrexham? We don't care. We're living, we're being bold, we're being brave.”
Premier League teams such West Ham and Wolves, plus Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund, are some of the clubs to have entered in a competition that is prized on success. However, there was some controversy during the Hammers’ game against Dallas on Thursday.
The West Ham players walked off the pitch after an alleged racial slur was directed towards Frank Nouble. A Dallas player was alleged to have used the N-word towards Nouble, who confronted the player. The Hammers then came together to discuss their best course of action. Anton Ferdinand told TST staff, "I am here to set a precedent" as he led his side off the field.
