It wasn’t the kind of major scalp that the Welsh club have been so famous for over the years but it was an important and historic one nonetheless.

Victory, secured by Josh Windass’ 34th minute strike, enabled the Reds to reach the last 16 of the competition for the first time in 29 years.

There have been so many giant-killing acts in Wrexham’s history but also decent cup runs, with the club going onto make the quarter-finals after last appearing in the fifth round in the 1996-97 campaign.

That was one of three occasions that they’ve been in the last eight and Wrexham are only one win away from making it four!

The FA Cup can sometimes get forgotten about with the success enjoyed in the league under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac who last week celebrated their fifth anniversary of the club’s takeover.

Climbing from the National League to the Championship following an historic three successive promotions is no mean feat but Wrexham fans love the magic of the cup and they got to experience it once again on Friday night, ensuring the Reds will be in the hat for tonight’s fifth round draw when they could land one of the big boys.

It wasn’t easy against Ipswich who are third in the second tier and targeting an immediate return to the Premier League.

While Phil Parkinson tinkered with his side, freshening it up in areas he felt it was needed and with Libby Cacace and Matty James out injured, Tractor Boys boss Kieran McKenna decided to make 10 injuries.

That was a sign of Ipswich’s intentions this season but they still boast a squad oozing quality and it was never going to be easy for Wrexham, especially with the visitors making a good start.

But Wrexham grew into the game and after Windass put them ahead with his ninth goal of the season, they finished the first-half strongly and could have been further ahead.

The Reds were good value for their lead but Ipswich came out fired up for the second period.

Despite having a lot of possession, and Wrexham not helping themselves at times with careless passes, Ipswich did not have a single effort on target all game.

It wasn’t easy and there was late pressure but resolute defending ensured it was the Reds go through and Parkinson was pleased with the display.

“I thought the manner of the performance was good,” he said. “We had other moments where we could have extended the lead.

“They had a bit more play second period but they’re always going to because they are a good side.

“But in general, I thought we showed how we’ve evolved as a team since we played them down at their place where we were excellent and detailed out of possession.

“Tonight with the ball, I thought we were really good at times and that’s what we’re all about.

“We’re evolving as a team into this level and I enjoyed watching some of the football.”

It wasn’t a classic but Wrexham were solid and they did enough to get through.

All eyes will be on tonight’s draw but the league remains the priority and with 15 games remaining, the Reds are well-placed in the race for a play-off spot.

There’s so much to play for in league and cup so it promises to be an exciting run-in at The Racecourse.

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