Tired Millers have got to dig so deep

WHAT sort of state Rotherham’s players will be in for today’s crunch clash against Birmingham remains to be seen. It’s another consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic that has caused so much chaos to football up and down the land and, more importantly of course, to families throughout the country.

Football-wise, the Millers have been affected by two coronavirus outbreaks this season, causing multiple fixtures to be called off. It means they are still trying to play catch-up with their games.

Paul Warne’s men beat QPR 3-1 at home on Tuesday, but were then back on the pitch just 48 hours later and, perhaps not surprisingly, lost 1-0 to Coventry in a relegation six-pointer.

Now they face a Birmingham side who have been able to put their feet up all week following last Saturday’s 2-0 win against Stoke. Lee Bowyer’s Blues have been in fine form of late, so it would be a surprise if the shattered Millers beat them.

It’s a shame for Rotherham, and the Championship in general, that crucial fixtures are having to be squeezed in like this, but it was always a possibility when the season kicked off a month later than usual and coronavirus was still lurking around every hidden corner.

It can be argued that the Millers enjoyed a slice of luck last season when they won promotion as League One runners-up via points-per-game, but it has certainly run out now.

They are going to have to dig deeper into their reserves than they ever have if they are to remain in the second tier. However, Warne’s troops have never been afraid to roll up their sleeves and give it a go.

One or two wins now could make all the difference and would make the sides above them extremely nervous. Do the Millers have the energy to do it? We’re about to find out.