League One leaders Birmingham City moved closer to securing automatic promotion to the Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 home win over their closest title rivals, Wycombe Wanderers.
Taylor Gardner-Hickman scored the decisive goal as the dominant Blues extended their lead at the top to 12 points, reinforcing their push for an immediate return to the second tier following last season’s unexpected relegation.
Chris Davies’ side remains unbeaten in 18 matches and firmly in control of the promotion race. They dictated the pace of the game, enjoyed greater possession, and created more opportunities against Wycombe at St Andrew’s Stadium. However, the match could have been more competitive if not for a contentious decision to send off Wycombe’s Xavier Simons just before halftime for a late challenge on Ethan Laird.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett believes Wycombe has grounds to appeal Simons’ red card. Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett argued that the challenge was reckless but did not meet the threshold for serious foul play, warranting only a yellow card.
Birmingham now holds a commanding 12-point lead over second-placed Wycombe with a game in hand and sits 14 points ahead of third-placed Wrexham, who were held to a goalless draw against Bolton Wanderers. With 14 games remaining, the Blues could still amass a total of 100+ points. Wrexham, who can reach a maximum of 101 points, would need a perfect record, while Birmingham requires just five wins and a draw to secure promotion regardless of other results.
Next, Birmingham will face Bolton away, while Wycombe hosts Burton and Wrexham travels to Huddersfield, with all three teams keeping a close eye on the title race.
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