In a heated response, Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony criticized Rotherham United manager Steve Evans for his post-match comments following a thrilling 3-3 draw between the two sides last weekend.
MacAnthony expressed his frustration during his popular ‘Hard Truth’ podcast, where he accused his former manager of failing to acknowledge Peterborough’s dominance in the match.
Frustration Over Post-Match Comments
MacAnthony took issue with Evans’ claim that Rotherham deserved to win, despite Peterborough dominating possession and launching a spirited second-half comeback. Peterborough controlled a staggering 75% of possession, a feat MacAnthony described as one of the best performances by his team in a decade.
Rotherham had surged into a 3-1 lead by halftime, but Peterborough responded with a resilient second-half performance to secure a point. Despite this, Evans focused on missed opportunities and controversial refereeing decisions in his post-match remarks, which drew MacAnthony’s ire.
“I’ve defended Steve many times before,” MacAnthony said. “But he can let himself down in post-match interviews. Sometimes I have to question his credibility. He deflects and seems allergic to admitting the other team was better. You don’t have to spin a narrative – your eyes don’t lie. His team were outclassed tactically, and he couldn’t admit it.”
MacAnthony further criticized Evans for pointing to a penalty decision that was never given, arguing that the referee had made the correct call. He suggested that Rotherham supporters would agree the incident did not warrant a penalty.
He also highlighted the missed chances by his own team, including three close-range opportunities that could have turned the match in Peterborough’s favour. MacAnthony expressed disbelief that Evans, instead of acknowledging Peterborough’s youth-driven performance, chose to focus on what he viewed as minor details.
In the podcast, the Posh chairman highlighted the fact that Peterborough fielded a much younger side, with some players making their first significant appearances in the league. In contrast, Rotherham’s team was filled with experienced players, yet they struggled to maintain control, particularly in the second half.
MacAnthony emphasized that his team’s performance was nothing short of “brilliant” and praised the effort of the young squad.
Writer’s View
MacAnthony’s frustration seems rooted not just in the result but in a broader sense of sportsmanship. His expectation for honesty and acknowledgment of the opposition’s quality reflects his passion for the game. While Evans may have been protecting his side, MacAnthony’s perspective offers a reminder that sometimes credit is due, even in the face of disappointment.