Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson explains frustration after Ben Cabango avoids red card against Swansea

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson believes Swansea City defender Ben Cabango was fortunate to escape with only a yellow card following a dangerous challenge on Callum O’Hare during Saturday’s goalless Championship draw.

The incident came 13 minutes from full-time, when Cabango caught O’Hare with a forceful challenge near the touchline. Wrexham players immediately surrounded referee Elliot Bell, appealing for the Swansea defender to be dismissed, but the official opted for a booking.

Parkinson was adamant that the decision should have gone the other way, arguing that Swansea should have been reduced to 10 men.

“When we review the game they should have been down to 10 men,” the Wrexham boss said.

He also pointed to an earlier incident involving Cabango and Kieffer Moore before highlighting the challenge on O’Hare.

Parkinson felt the tackle was reckless, out of control and posed a serious risk to the Wrexham midfielder.

“I know we want to protect our players but, when someone flies in at that speed, that could have been a leg-breaking challenge,” he said, adding that O’Hare was left with an ice pack on his leg after the incident.

The Wrexham manager also questioned the consistency of the refereeing decision, particularly given that Bell had previously dismissed Wrexham defender Callum Doyle for a challenge against Oxford United.

Despite the controversy, Parkinson was pleased with his team’s overall performance. Swansea started strongly, but Wrexham grew into the match and created the better opportunities after the break.

O’Hare, Max Cleworth and Kieffer Moore all had chances as Wrexham pushed for a winner, but they were unable to find the breakthrough. The result kept Swansea unbeaten and at the top of the early Championship standings.

Parkinson was particularly impressed by the effort his players produced after a demanding schedule that had seen them travel to Millwall in midweek before making another long trip to Swansea.

“We’ve had the better chances to win the game,” he said. “I thought we grew into it, got better and better as it went on.”

The Wrexham boss praised his squad for refusing to use the difficult schedule as an excuse, insisting their commitment was outstanding.

Swansea head coach Vitor Matos, meanwhile, chose not to enter the debate over Cabango’s booking. He said he does not comment on refereeing decisions and left Parkinson to give his own opinion on the incident.

Matos instead focused on the mentality he wants from his players, stressing the importance of remaining competitive, avoiding frustration and continuing to improve as the season progresses.

He also highlighted the importance of squad depth, with every player expected to be ready to make an impact whether starting or coming off the bench.

The 0-0 draw ensured Swansea maintained their unbeaten start, while Wrexham can take encouragement from a disciplined performance against the early Championship leaders.