Semi’s at the double as Millers edge win
IT was not pretty but Rotherham boss Paul Warne is offering no apologies for his side’s performance as they registered a crucial victory in their fight to avoid relegation.
Warne admitted his side has played much better in recent weeks but with only 11 games to go, he says it is now all about the results.
He said: “We have been excellent in recent weeks, as good as we can possibly be.
“We didn’t play well here but we got the result and that’s important.
“We have been critical of the players for not taking our chances but we scored with every good chance today.
“To get a win when you haven’t played well is a real treat. I am really proud of the players for getting those points.”
The Millers got off to a flying start when Semi Ajayi headed home Will Vaulks’ throw after just 94 seconds.
Blackburn were level six minutes into the second half when Charlie Mulgrew’s inswinging free-kick was not cleared and Amari’i Bell reacted quickest to hook the ball home.
But nobody has conceded more goals on their travels in the Championship than Rovers and they shipped goal
No.37 just before the hour mark.
Vaulks’ cross was headed goalwards by Michael Smith and substitute Ryan Williams pounced on uncertain defending to stab Rotherham back in front.
The hosts looked to have the points in the bag when another Vaulks cross was again headed in by Ajayi
12 minutes from time.
But Blackburn made the hosts sweat when Charlie Mulgrew netted from the penalty spot in injury time.
It is now six games without a win for Rovers and bossTony Mowbray says it is clear where the problems lie.
“If you don’t keep clean sheets you are not going to win games,” he said.
“Our problems are clear for all to see, if you can’t clear the ball out of your own area you are in trouble.
“We’ve done okay this season, coming up from League One but I think we still need to win a few more games to stay safe.”