WREXHAM didn't have it all their own way against Wycombe Wanderers on their return to League One but Phil Parkinson had no complaints after his side registered an opening day victory at The Racecourse.

Back in the third tier for the first time in 19 years after clinching back-to-back promotions, the Reds kicked off the 2024-25 campaign by beating the Chairboys 3-2 in front of co-chairmen Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

Parkinson's men were quick out of the blocks and led 2-0 after 29 minutes thanks to Max Cleworth's early strike and Jack Marriott's stunner.

Although Wycombe reduced the deficit after the break, substitute Steven Fletcher restored the two-goal advantage with seven minutes remaining and Wrexham held on for victory despite the visitors, who finished 10th in the division last term, netting their second late on.

But the Reds' boss was just pleased to get a win on the board at the first attempt.

"I'm so pleased, I thought it was a great game of football," said Parkinson.

The first 30-35 minutes I thought we were outstanding, everything we set out to do against their shape we did.

"We got in some terrific positions and got the goals. They had a little spell before the break but was that us taking our foot off the gas a little bit or was that them, because they're a good side?

"Second half we had chances to extend the lead, didn't quite take them, but the third goal was really important.

"They went very direct, threw caution to the wind but did they cause us loads of problems? Not really.

"They got a couple of goals so it made it a tight game but I don't think we can be too picky.

"It's a great effort from the lads and I am so pleased to get the first three points on the board."

More than 13,200 supporters saw Wrexham, who are tipped to challenge for an unprecedented third succession promotion under their Hollywood owners, pick up three points on the big kick-off and Parkinson felt his players handled the occasion.

"I think all-round there were a lot of good performances," he said.

"There was always going to be a big build-up with our first game in 19 years back in this division, and all the profile the club's got.

"I am so pleased that we were able to focus on what we needed to do.

"We worked on how we needed to play against their system and at times we really exploited it.

"Three points on the board and a fantastic atmosphere. You forget what it's like, we've had a long summer.

"To be on that touchline when this ground is bouncing. the supporters have got such a huge part to play for us and they were brilliant."

Wrexham, after being promoted as National League champions, were brought back down to earth on the opening day of the 2023-24 League Two season when MK Dons won 5-3 in North Wales but Parkinson feels his side are better prepared this time around.

"I think we've had a lot better pre-season first of all," he added.

"We are in a better place, you could see that and we showed it today which is great.

"It was a tough start last year, we didn't get too down about it because we kind of knew the reasons, and we are not going to get too high from this one."