Wrexham make history as Ryan Reynolds era brings maiden league title

History has been written in North Wales as Wrexham AFC clinched their first Adran Premier title in a winner-takes-all shoot-out with Cardiff City at the Racecourse Ground.

A hat-trick from Katie Barker, having initially fallen behind to Mikayla Cook, along with a Faye Knox effort, secured the win for Jenny Sugarman’s side.

The victory brings to an end a three-year grip that the Bluebirds had on the top-flight title in Wales. Wrexham’s win also ensures a league and cup double, having defeated the South Wales side in February to lift the Adran Trophy.

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It was never going to be straightforward. Wrexham found themselves trailing after a stunning free-kick from Cook put their opponents ahead, silencing the home crowd early on.

But true champions are defined by resilience, and the Red Dragons showed exactly that.

Just before the break, Barker capitalised on a defensive error to bring Wrexham level, reigniting belief among the players and the 2,900-strong crowd. The momentum carried into the second half, where Barker struck again with a composed, clinical finish to give Wrexham the lead and ultimately, control of the match.

As the game edged towards its conclusion, the tension was palpable. Wrexham dug deep to protect their advantage, but they weren’t done yet. Faye Knox struck late on to seal the win, sparking wild celebrations and ensuring there would be no late twists in the title race.

To put the finishing touch on a memorable afternoon, Barker added her 24th goal of the season from the penalty spot, calmly slotting a low effort past a rooted Ceryn Chamberlain. Shannon Evans was sent off for a last-ditch challenge on Barker.

Ryan Reynolds Era Yields more Silverware

The remarkable rise of the club continues to capture global attention, thanks in part to the involvement of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. While much of the spotlight has been on the men’s team, this historic triumph highlights the growing strength and ambition of the women’s side as well.

Ryan Reynolds was present when Wrexham lifted the Adran North title, before going on to secure promotion to the top flight with a Play-Off Final victory over Briton Ferry Llansawel AFC Women in 2023.

Since then, Wrexham AFC Women have firmly established themselves in the division, reaching back-to-back Welsh Cup finals, though they were denied on both occasions by Cardiff. This season, however, the tide has turned. Wrexham have got the better of Cardiff, beating them in a cup final and securing a statement victory at the Cardiff City Stadium, results that laid the foundation for their title charge and ultimately put them in a position to make history.

Investment in the women’s side has been clear both on and off the pitch. The acquisition of The Rock, formerly home to Cefn Druids, has provided Wrexham AFC Women with a permanent base for training and hosting matches, underlining the club’s long-term commitment to growth and professionalism.

That ambition is equally evident in recruitment. Hat-trick hero Katie Barker arrived from an ambitious Newcastle United Women side and has since made history as the first player to reach 20 goals in the Adran Premier. Further investment on the pitch has followed, with a first-ever transfer fee paid for Maria Francis-Jones, alongside the addition of Canadian international Sarah Harvey, clear signals that the club is building for sustained success.

What comes next for Wrexham?

The celebrations are far from over. Wrexham will lift the trophy in front of their home fans next Sunday against Swansea City, a moment that promises to be unforgettable

By securing the title, Wrexham have also booked their place in the qualifying rounds of the 2026/27 UEFA Women’s Champions League. This milestone marks a new chapter for the club, as they prepare to test themselves on the European stage.