Rotherham United manager Steve Evans was left frustrated after his side suffered a dramatic 3-2 home defeat to Wycombe Wanderers, accusing the visitors of “stealing” the points with two late goals.
Wycombe strike late in dramatic finale
In an action-packed second half at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, Louie Sibley initially put the Millers ahead after capitalising on an error from Wycombe goalkeeper Will Norris. However, the visitors quickly responded, with Richard Kone netting his 18th goal of the season to level the score.
Wycombe then struck twice late on, with Sonny Bradley heading home after poor goalkeeping from Dillon Phillips before Gideon Kodua sealed the win in stoppage time. A late penalty from Jordan Clarke-Harris gave Rotherham hope, but it was too little, too late.
Evans vents frustration
Speaking after the match, Evans admitted his disappointment with the manner of the defeat and criticised his side’s defending.
“I think it is a frustrating one. It is a simple cross (for Wycombe’s second goal) and Dillon gets blocked – the boys at Wycombe play for that type of routine, but Dillon should do better.”
The Rotherham boss also made a colourful comparison about how he felt his team had been outdone by Wycombe.
“There’s one or two players who I know personally, and they know they have turned up with a balaclava today to take the points. That’s how we feel.”
What’s next for Rotherham?
Despite the setback, Evans remained upbeat about his team’s performance, insisting there were positives to take from the game.
“We were sloppy at times and should have done better, but there was a real hunger and energy to win the ball back,” he said. “They are always going to be a threat, hence why they are where they are in the league and are a decent side.”
Rotherham will now look to bounce back as they continue their fight to climb the League One table.
Writer’s view
Steve Evans’ reaction encapsulates the frustration of conceding late goals in such a crucial fixture. His animated remarks reflect how costly defensive lapses have been for Rotherham, but the team must quickly regroup if they are to stay in contention. With Wycombe proving themselves as late-goal specialists, Rotherham will need to tighten up defensively if they want to turn close matches in their favour.
