Last-gasp Smith is a real Hurst-breaker

ROTHERHAM legend Paul Hurst had his heart broken yet again by his former club, after the Millers snatched a last-minute victory over Ipswich.

Three months ago Hurst – who played 497 times for Rotherham – was the Shrewsbury boss when they lost the League One play-off final against Paul Warne’s Millers.

And he suffered more agony as his new side were beaten when Michael Smith lashed home a 90th-minute volley.

Hurst said: “I’m never sick of the sight of Rotherham and genuinely wish them well but it’s the last three times I’ve come out on wrong side of results against them.

“It feels hard to take today.

“We didn’t score which is why we didn’t win.

“I’m very disappointed with the result.

“As nice as it is to get the performance you need the results.”

Millers boss Warne, who played alongside Hurst for the club, said: “Me and Hursty are very close.

“Part of him is a Millers fan so if he’s going to lose to anyone he’d probably choose us. The scoreline was kind to us but to get a win, any way, I’ll take it.

“At half time we said to stay in the game and there’s always a chance.”

Ipswich had the better chances in the first half with Millers keeper Marek Rodak denying Ellis Harrison and Janoi Donacien seeing his fierce shot deflected over.

Rodak also came to the rescue when Jonas Knudsen found himself bearing down on goal.

Home debutant Kyle Vassell and Smith both had efforts early in the second half, while Jon Nolan was just wide for the visitors with a rasping 25-yard strike.

Gwion Edwards stretched Rodak with a free-kick but the game looked set for a draw before Smith’s late show.