Wrexham wing-back Ryan Barnett celebrates scoringImage source, Rex Features
Image caption,

Ryan Barnett scored his second goal of the season for Wrexham

Wrexham rose to second in League One after extending their unbeaten league run to eight matches with a 2-1 victory over Wigan Athletic at the Stok Racecourse.

The Latics controlled proceedings early on without overly troubling the hosts who saw Paul Mullin fire a free-kick at Sam Tickle in an opening half of precious little goalmouth action.

After surviving a scare from a Jensen Weir effort moments earlier, the hosts took the lead as Ryan Barnett's deflected strike beat Tickle.

Manchester United loanee Joe Hugill looked to have earned Shaun Maloney's side a point in north Wales when he headed Silko-Amari Thomas' cross beyond Mark Howard on 79 minutes.

But Steven Fletcher struck his third goal in four matches in the first minute of added time as Wrexham - who remain unbeaten on home turf in the league this term - sealed a dramatic victory.

Phil Parkinson's side sit one point clear of Wycombe Wanderers following the Chairboys' 2-1 defeat at Charlton Athletic and one behind leaders Birmingham City - who have two games in hand.

Wigan drop to 16th after a ninth league loss of the campaign.

Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson:

"They're [Wigan] a good side, we knew that. They've got some dangerous players. Where we at our best? Probably not.

"In terms of sticking to the job and showing character, strength and personality, I think all of that was high.

"The mentality of the group is so strong, and that showed again today."

Wigan Athletic head coach Shaun Maloney:

"I can't say anything negative about the team. I think there were moments in both boxes that you can probably pick out, but the team were brilliant today.

"They're [Wrexham] just really dangerous with the long ball, you know their nines are going to cause a threat.

"I thought we were really good. Honestly, I can't ask any more of them. You never want to accept getting beat, but if there's ever a way you do, it's playing like that."