Will Vaulks talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United midfielder Will Vaulks insists he will thrive on Saturday’s derby day atmosphere as the Millers welcome Doncaster Rovers in Sky Bet League One.
The former Falkirk man admits that he is relishing the prospect of turning out in front of a sold-out crowd this weekend as he and his teammates seek to add another game to their magnificent unbeaten streak, which currently stands at 13.
Vaulks, who has been a mainstay throughout the impressive run, was also part of the side that drew 1-1 against Doncaster in the reverse fixture earlier in the campaign, and insists that he and his teammates want to reward the fantastic support with another positive display.
“We equalised in the last minute last time against Doncaster, but we feel like we owe the fans a little bit because we weren't very good that day,” he told www.themillers.co.uk
“We owe the fans a little bit more than that, but there will be no complacency with it being such a big game. It will pick us up even more and I really can't wait for Saturday.
“I've got some mates coming to it as well who I don't see very often so it’s an occasion I’m looking forward to, in front of so many people.
“I'm quite a passionate person I suppose and I'm very competitive. I think I don't mind a bit of stick from the opposition fans. When the fans get up for it, it definitely helps us and I think I'm one of those people who thrives off that.
“That's not necessarily a bad thing because as I say, I think it will kick us on even more to try and win. There's no reason that we can't, but we know it's going to be a tough game and we can't just expect to win because we're on a run.”
The Millers have forced themselves into the top six in recent weeks after some notable victories, including last weekend’s success against league leaders Shrewsbury Town.
After being involved with the Millers during last season’s struggles, Vaulks admits he is relishing the current situation, but stressed that the levels must be maintained as the Millers gear up for a host of tough games, starting this weekend.
“Three months ago I think we'd have been looking how far away we were from the bottom half or lower down and now to be 13 games on and looking at teams at the top of the league is a testament to what we've done,” he added.
“I'm really enjoying it. I'm playing every week and there's nothing better. I was frustrated a little bit at the start of the season being in and out but I don't think it's any coincidence that the team is doing well now that we have a settled side.
“I'd just like to chip in with a few more goals. I'm on a little bit of a drought at the moment and I think teams are clicking on to the fact that I shoot from everywhere, so I might have to make the box now and then, but everyone is chipping in with goals which is good.”
Vaulks has been in imperious form alongside Brighton loanee Richie Towell, resulting in January signing Matt Palmer being forced to bide his time for an opportunity in the starting 11.
Competition for places has never been higher, and Vaulks knows that standards have now been set with several players waiting in the wings.
“I'm sure the manager will want to get him involved [Palmer],” Vaulks continued.
“He came on at the weekend and did well for five or 10 minutes sat in front of the back four. It's nice because me and Richie know at some point we might get a knock and to know there's someone there that is more than capable of filling in the spot and potentially keeping it, means you're always on your toes and it's healthy competition.”