Paul Warne post Chesterfield...
Rotherham United boss Paul Warne gave his thoughts on the Millers’ 2-1 defeat to Chesterfield in the Checkatrade Trophy at the AESSEAL New York Stadium this evening.
“My honest assessment is I thought we were sub-standard first half. We didn’t pass the ball quick enough, we didn’t pass the ball hard enough or run hard enough. Second half I thought the lads took on board what we said to them at half time. We got the full-backs wider and higher up the pitch quicker, with the wingers as well.
“For 20-odd minutes they didn’t come in our half and once we’d equalised I thought we were the team that were going to go on and win it. So it was disappointing to lose with a late goal like that.
“I was disappointed with the first half but pleased with the second half. I don’t think we deserved to lose.”
Will Vaulks restored parity after Chesterfield had taken the lead through Diego De Girolamo and the Spireites clinched the late winner on 89 minutes through Jak McCourt’s header.
“Chessie made two changes from the side that played Saturday and they’re trying to impress their new manager,” continued Warne. “I made 10 changes and I’d like to think all my lads were trying to impress me. I thought Wiles did really well when he came on at half time in the middle of the park. I thought Akeem for a young lad did really well.
“There were some good performances in the second half. It was good to get David Ball on the pitch. Him and Newell on the pitch added a bit more class. To lose the game is a bit hard to take but you’ve got to take your chances when you’re on top.”
Speaking on the impressive Ben Wiles, Warne added: “He was good. He’s obviously been through the Academy system. Hammy said I’d like him, I’ve seen him play a few times last year. If nothing else he’s really athletic but he’s got a good footballing head on his shoulders.
“I put him on for Towell who I was only going to give 45 minutes. I’ve told him (Wiles) and Akeem when we email them their clips in the morning to watch them and come and see the coaches where we can help them with the good and bad bits.”