Rotherham United boss Matt Taylor has called on the 4,000-plus-strong travelling Red and White Army to enjoy what promises to be an incredible atmosphere on the final day trip to Wigan Athletic, but to do so whilst being respectful of our hosts at the DW Stadium.
The Millers travel to face the Latics having confirmed their survival in the Sky Bet Championship with a game to spare and will lock horns with a club that have suffered relegation this season.
Taylor’s men will play out their final match of the 2022/23 campaign in front of what is headed to be a sold-out away end and whilst the Millers boss wants to give those same fans plenty to cheer and sign off on a positive note, he is conscious of doing so in a manner which is respectful of Wigan’s situation.
“We want to compete, we want to perform. We're hearing about this mass exodus from Rotherham, fans going to Wigan. Four and a half thousand, as we speak, to celebrate, but I want them to celebrate another performance and another positive result.
“I don't want to be stood there clapping them at the end of the game having played poorly and having been beaten. So personal pride, professional pride, respect for the opposition in the league, everything comes into the account in relation to that.
“We also have to be understanding of Wigan's situation. We know how that feels better than anyone. They've really been through the mill and it is a club I'm associated with through living so close to the area, but it's still important we go there in good voice and good spirit."
“We're no different to Wigan in terms of promotion from League One and a bit of time at Championship level. They've obviously been in the Premier League as well, but no different in terms of size and infrastructures, which keeps telling people how difficult this league is – it is the same for Blackpool to a certain extent.
“Hopefully the respect stays where it needs to be for players first and foremost, for staff and certainly for the fans."
“Be in full voice for that group of players who've achieved something which we've not achieved in recent years. We need to keep showing that support like we felt on Monday, but also enjoy spending time together as Rotherham United fans.
“They've been here, there, and everywhere this season. They've been up and down, they've been through the mill, but they've got something to look forward to.”
The club would also like to thank supporters for the impeccable way in which they conducted themselves at our final home game of the season against Middlesbrough and take this opportunity to issue a polite reminder of the importance of remaining in the stands at full-time at the DW Stadium.