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via Imago

via Imago

After getting crowned as the champions of the National League, Wrexham AFC had to leave their beloved town and its community for a major test. The Welsh side flew to the United States in order to play the emphatic pre-season fixtures. Although they were away from their home, it really didn’t feel that way to them.

The Welsh side kicked off its tour with four games in North Carolina, followed by two games in California, and concluding the tour in Philadelphia. Likewise, fans from all corners of the globe came in numbers to show their support for Ryan Reynolds’ side. As if the presence of ardent fans wasn’t enough to give them a feel of home, the famous Wrexham-based pub was also recreated in the U.S.

Famous Wrexham pub recreated during the U.S. Tour

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Among the attendees of the game at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill was Wayne Jones, owner of The Turf, a popular pub that is located next to Wrexham’s stadium. Interestingly, his pub has been making strides in the soccer world ever since it featured in the club’s famous docuseries, ‘Welcome to Wrexham.’ However, the advertising of Jones’ pub didn’t stop there.

Apparently, before Reynolds’ first match in the U.S., fans had an opportunity to experience The Turf at a pop-up event near the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower, adjacent to the stadium. When Jones saw the pop-up, he was in disbelief and couldn’t contain his excitement. As stated by FOR THE WIN, he said, “I’m glad there are so many people from around the world — not just America, but from around the world — get to experience what we get to experience on a daily basis. It’s a beautiful place full of beautiful people.”

Remarkably, the pop-up was a part of the ‘Wrexchange Program’ which was facilitated by Aviation American Gin.

Ricky Collett, the Global & US Brand Director of Reynolds’ Gin brand revealed that it was done in order to give the team a proper welcome. He said, “The Turf and owner Wayne Jones are rooted in the Wrexham community’s celebratory traditions, and we’re thrilled to bring that experience stateside for Wrexham supporters here.”

READ MORE: “Love You. Up the Town” – Rob McElhenney Sends a Message to Ryan Reynolds as Wrexham Held to a Draw in Final US Friendly Marred by Hours of Delay

Indeed, it’s quite an initiative taken from Reynolds’ gin brand in order to give fans an immense experience. Nevertheless, let’s dive deeper into how Wrexham concluded its U.S. Tour.

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Breaking down the Red Dragon’s U.S. Tour

The preseason U.S. tour gave Wrexham a chance to test the waters before they actually kick off their EFL League Two campaign. Likewise, the tour began with a wrong-foot match against Chelsea, having lost 5-0 against the Blues. However, Phil Parkinson’s side quickly bounced back in the next fixture against LA Galaxy II, which they won 4-0.

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The winning streak continued as they thrashed Manchester United 3-1. However, that win came at the cost of seeing their star player Paul Mullin getting injured. Last but not least, the final match against Philadelphia Union II didn’t impress much, as they were held 1-1. Overall, it was quite a rollercoaster ride for the Dragons in the United States. Now, their focus will be on starting off the new campaign on a high note.

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