Rotherham United welcomed Stockport County to the New York Stadium for the final match of 2024, hoping to end the year on a positive note. With Rotherham reeling from back-to-back losses, the Millers were determined to turn their fortunes around against the fifth-placed visitors from League One.
This fixture had not seen the two clubs meet for league play since 2008, when history favored Rotherham, who won 4-0 during their last league matchup at Don Valley Stadium. The last FA Cup clash was more recent, where Rotherham emerged victorious 1-0 back in December 2021.
Entering the match, both sides carried injury concerns. Rotherham's manager, Steve Evans, confirmed the absence of defender Sean Raggett and midfielder Christ Tiehi due to injuries. There were doubts surrounding Sam Nombe and Jamie McCart, who both picked up minor injuries during the previous game against Wigan Athletic. On the contrary, Zak Jules was expected to return from his illness, which had sidelined him for the team’s last outing.
Stockport, rejuvenated after being promoted as League Two Champions last season, were enjoying their place among the League One playoff spots with 36 points on their board. This put them thirteen points clear of Rotherham, who sat at 18th place with only 23 points, making the stakes high for both teams.
Kick-off arrived with enthusiasm from the fans at New York Stadium. The players took the field amid patches of empty seats, reflecting some dissatisfaction from the home crowd after recent performances. Stockport's Lewis Barry quickly showcased his influence, scoring just 13 minutes after kickoff. He managed to evade the Millers' defense, finding space to finish with precision beyond Rotherham goalkeeper Dillon Phillips.
After falling behind, Rotherham rallied and found the equalizer just six minutes later. Hakeem Odoffin was at the right place when Liam Kelly's misdirected shot fell perfectly for him, allowing him to score and level the match at 1-1, much to the joy of the home supporters. Despite Stockport's initial dominance, they found themselves facing renewed energy from Rotherham.
The second half witnessed pressure mounting from Stockport as they sought to retake the lead. At the same time, Rotherham struggled to maintain possession due to the visitors' intense pressing. Callum Connolly came close for Stockport, shooting narrowly off target, but Rotherham's defense held strong, particularly with Phillips making key saves to deny the threat posed by Barry and others.
A turning point came when Barry was forced off the pitch due to injury, diminishing Stockport's attacking prowess. His removal shifted the game's dynamics, as Rotherham began to push forward, trying to seize control. Rotherham's efforts included attempts from Shaun McWilliams and Jonson Clarke-Harris, but luck was not on their side as both attempts were either blocked or saved.
Evenly matched as the game drew to its conclusion, both teams settled for the share of points, ending the contest at 1-1. Despite the draw, Rotherham’s fans expressed their relief at avoiding another loss after two previous defeats, stemming from mounting pressure due to their league standing.
Overall, the draw held significance for Rotherham as they aimed to rebuild their confidence moving forward. Stockport maintained their strong position within the league, still vying for playoff contention as the season approached its midpoint. The result may not have been the win either side desired, but it encapsulated the fierce competition within League One this season.
Manager Steve Evans reflected on the match, “A point on the board after what we had faced was important for our confidence.” The Millers now look to build upon this newfound positivity when they next take to the pitch.