Luton Town 3 Wrexham 2

Last updated : 15 November 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Luton Town came back from two goals down to beat ten-man Wrexham in a thrilling encounter at Kenilworth Road.

Gary McSheffrey fired an early free-kick just over the bar for the Hatters while at the other end debutant Matty Crowell forced Marlon Beresford into a smart save after good play by Hector Sam.

Sam fired the Red Dragons ahead in the 19th minute when he held off the attentions of Emmerson Boyce before sliding the ball home.

The afternoon was to get worse for Boyce two minutes before the interval when he turned a Wrexham corner into his own net.

However, Luton were handed a lifeline in first-half stoppage time when Adrian Forbes' long mazy run ended with him firing a shot past veteran keeper Andy Dibble.

Three minutes into the second half Steve Robinson's firm header was saved by Dibble but the same player then hit a stunning half-volley home in the 52nd minute to bring the scores level.

Amazingly Luton took the lead six minutes later – their third goal in 13 minutes.

After a spell of pressure, McSheffrey and Matthew Spring set up Lee Mansell to lift a shot into the top corner of the net.

Boyce atoned for his earlier own goal by denying Sam an equaliser while Carlos Edwards also flashed an effort just wide for Denis Smith's side.

However, Luton hung on to secure a vital win as they moved to within two points of a play-off place.