Neil Redfearn post Hull City...
Rotherham United manager Neil Redfearn hailed his side for a ‘well deserved’ three points after a 2-0 victory over high-flying Hull City at AESSEAL New York Stadium.
The Millers bounced back from their midweek defeat at Huddersfield with a stellar display, after a penalty from Lee Frecklington and a second half strike from Joe Newell sealed a stunning victory.
After the game the Millers boss was delighted with his side’s performance, with a win that spread some festive cheer in the final match before Christmas Day.
“It was well deserved,” Redfearn said after the game.
“They had quite a bit of possession but they’re a good side and they’re going to. We talked through the week about there being times when they would have the ball but I thought we pressed brilliantly. We talked about letting them come on to us and then breaking, which we did.
“There were some harsh words said and it put one or two noses out of joint but that’s football. We had a good reaction and the lads really responded well and the one thing they have done since I’ve been here is they’ve fought. We fought today but we played as well and we passed it. We looked like a good side today.
“I thought we were organised, switched on and aggressive. We played on the front foot and we looked dangerous and could have had more than the two that we got.
Danny Ward was given a starting berth up front as Redfearn tinkered with his team selection and formation to great effect. Redfearn was full of praise for his striker who displayed a terrific all round performance as the focal point of the Millers’ attack.
“I thought Danny Ward was outstanding today,” Redfearn added.
“Jonson’s a fantastic young talent and I’ve asked him to do that lone striker role at times and it’s hard and I have to look after him.
“He (Danny Ward) was somebody I tried to sign at Leeds and he’s got a lot of ability. I think the trick now with Danny is to try and keep him fit and get the ball into areas where he can hurt people.
“I think there’s goals in him because he can finish. He’s an athlete and he can run and climb, he’s strong so he can get hold of it and his touch is good. Sometimes it’s just about getting people into a better situation and giving them the confidence to go and play and he did look confident today.
Another player who came in for praise was Kirk Broadfoot after another rock solid display at the heart of the back four. The former Rangers defender was a commanding presence throughout leading to Redfearn describing him as one of his star performerw of recent games.
“He’s been our best player for me for the last four or five games and he’s a real leader,” Redfearn said of his centre half.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve and he heads and kicks and he can play too.”
Redfearn was forced into a change at half-time with Stephen Kelly coming off with a calf problem to be replaced by Lewis Buxton, but Redfearn is hopeful that the Republic of Ireland will be available for the Boxing Day clash with Bolton Wanderers.
“He just felt his calf tighten again so it was a precaution,” Redfearn continued.
“He’s important to us and he’s just got back fit. Calves are problems and Frecks had a problem coming back from his. We’ve got to really be careful because you want all your better players fit.
“We’ve got a blank week so hopefully if he rests and gets the right rehab and treatment we might have him available for the Bolton game.”