Steve Evans, Rotherham United’s manager, has hinted that further disciplinary action may follow after his side’s 2-1 victory over Reading, particularly focusing on the red card incident involving Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan.
Evans remarked that while Ehibhatiomhan’s dismissal was clear, the Football Association could investigate additional elements from the altercation that might involve more severe consequences. The match itself was one that Reading may rue, as their ongoing struggles away from home continued. Despite a promising start, Reading left empty-handed from their trip to the New York Stadium, extending their winless run on the road.
Reading’s hopes of ending their away-day woes were dashed as The Millers came from behind to claim a 2-1 victory. The visitors took the lead midway through the first half when Lewis Wing converted a stunning free-kick from just outside the box. Wing’s curling strike sailed past Viktor Johansson in the Rotherham goal, offering Reading a glimpse of hope as they sought to end their poor away form.
However, despite leading 1-0 at the break, Ruben Selles’ side never appeared comfortable. While they displayed occasional flashes of promise, Reading’s overall performance was lacking in sharpness. The Royals were too often passive in possession and struggled to assert control over the game. The Millers, despite their slow start to the season, capitalized on Reading’s defensive frailties and fought back strongly in the second half.
Rotherham came out revitalized after the interval and immediately took the game to the visitors. Just four minutes after the restart, Sam Nombe latched onto a low cross at the near post to slot the ball past David Button, leveling the score. The momentum had decisively shifted, and Rotherham continued to push forward.
Their persistence paid off again seven minutes later when a looping cross to the back post caused confusion in the Reading defense. Button failed to deal with the aerial threat, and Hakeem Odoffin took full advantage, heading the ball into the net to put the Millers ahead. It was another frustrating moment for Reading, as Button’s lack of command in his box has been a recurring issue this season.
Down 2-1, Reading had over half an hour to respond but found themselves in further trouble when Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan received a second yellow card for a reckless shove during a heated altercation in the 68th minute. Already booked, the young forward should have known better than to get involved in a scuffle, leaving the referee with no choice but to send him off. His dismissal left Reading down to 10 men and further weakened their chances of a comeback.
In the closing stages, Rotherham controlled the game, managing the threat posed by Reading’s 10 men. Substitute Jayden Wareham provided a spark for the Royals after his introduction, but the damage had already been done. Despite Reading’s continued efforts to press for an equalizer, Rotherham held firm to secure a vital victory, leaving Reading still searching for their first away win of the season.
After the game, Rotherham boss Steve Evans was full of praise for his side’s resilience, particularly their response after going a goal down. Reflecting on the match, Evans said, “It was certainly a game we should win. We were so far dominant in the early stages of the game. We’ve worked ever so hard, and I think we played really well.”
Addressing the supporters’ reaction at halftime, when Rotherham trailed, Evans admitted he was “a bit surprised,” as he felt his team had performed admirably. He highlighted the quality of the goals scored by his side, adding, “The goals were wonderful. Their goalkeeper, who for me is top class, loses it in the sun and doesn’t get off the ground, and we head it in.”
Evans also reflected on the red card incident, stating, “It’s a red card every day of the week. I think the FA might look at it because there’s another punch in there. I didn’t see it, but I’m hearing there was a wicked punch that could lead to further action.”
Writer’s View
Steve Evans has never been one to shy away from voicing his opinions on referees and their decisions, and this post-match reaction follows a familiar pattern. His comments about the red card and potential FA investigation continue his tradition of focusing on officiating when tensions rise on the pitch. While his concerns may hold merit, this tendency to blame referees is nothing new for Evans, whose outspoken nature has often put him at odds with officials.
That said, Rotherham’s victory was deserved on the balance of play. Reading’s inability to sustain their first-half lead speaks volumes about their vulnerabilities, particularly in defence. Evans was right to commend his team’s character and execution in the second half. Still, Reading’s shortcomings and lack of discipline were equally crucial in deciding the outcome.
