Why Wrexham once dressed as undertakers before facing Middlesbrough
Wrexham will face Middlesbrough at the Racecourse Ground on Saturday in their first ever league meeting on home soil, but the fixture already carries a unique place in the club’s history following two remarkable FA Cup encounters.
The sides have met twice before in Wrexham, both in the FA Cup. On each occasion, the Reds produced memorable results against higher-ranked opposition.
Those games are remembered not only for the outcomes, but for what happened before kick-off. One unusual moment has since become part of Wrexham folklore.
It is a story that connects directly to this weekend’s meeting.
The 1974 ‘Let’s Bury the Boro’ moment
Before the FA Cup fourth round tie in 1974, Wrexham’s players took part in a publicity stunt that would become iconic. The squad dressed as undertakers to promote the headline “Let’s Bury the Boro”.
The idea came from club director Charles Roberts, who wanted to send a clear message ahead of the tie against strong opposition.
Striker Dave Smallman later reflected on the moment, saying: “I didn’t think much of it at the time… In those days when you were told what to do, you just did it.”
Wrexham backed up the statement on the pitch. Smallman scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough.
The result was part of a historic run that saw Wrexham reach the FA Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
When Wrexham brought the idea back in 1999
The story returned 25 years later. Ahead of another FA Cup meeting with Middlesbrough, the Wrexham squad re-enacted the undertaker photo.
The symbolism was clear, and once again it was followed by a result on the pitch.
Wrexham came from behind to win 2-1 at the Racecourse Ground.
Robin Gibson equalised early in the second half before Darren Ferguson scored the winner, completing another notable upset against top-flight opposition.
The victory reinforced the fixture’s place in Wrexham’s FA Cup history.
What it means ahead of Saturday
Saturday’s match will be different. It is the first time Wrexham and Middlesbrough will meet in a league game at the Racecourse Ground.
However, the historical context remains relevant. Wrexham have won both previous home meetings against Middlesbrough.
That record that adds an extra layer to the occasion.
The undertaker images are now part of the club’s identity rather than its preparation. They reflect a willingness to embrace the moment and challenge expectations.
As Wrexham prepare for another meeting with Middlesbrough, the past offers a clear reminder of what has been achieved before at the Racecourse Ground.
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