In a disappointing display that has left fans and management alike reeling, Sheffield Wednesday fell to a 2-0 defeat against Stoke City on April 18, 2025, marking their sixth consecutive game without a win. The Owls, once a promising contender in the Championship, have now dropped to 15th place in the standings, raising serious concerns about their form as they approach the end of the season.
Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl did not hold back in his criticism of the team’s performance, expressing his frustration over the lack of effort from some players. "It's tough. We spoke a lot this week about what we want to change and how we want to play, that we have to do our basics right, and how we want to be hungry for the last games. I'm very disappointed from some individual performances today," Rohl told BBC Radio Sheffield.
Rohl's disappointment was palpable as he reflected on the match, stating, "For me, there was again a big, big signal from some of the players that they are not good enough for the Championship. I normally protect my players but I cannot accept this any more." His comments came after a lackluster first half where Stoke's Million Manhoef opened the scoring in the 21st minute, leaving Wednesday struggling to respond.
The match proved to be a tough one for the Owls, who were unable to find their rhythm. Rohl noted, "It starts after three minutes with one situation, and from that moment I knew it would be a tough first half. It's not what I want to see." The team was fortunate to escape further damage before halftime, with Dominic Iorfa deflecting a Stoke effort onto the crossbar.
As the second half commenced, there was a glimmer of hope for Wednesday. Callum Paterson had a chance to equalize, heading the ball over the bar in the 57th minute, followed shortly by a deflected shot from Djeidi Gassama that went wide. However, the game took a turn for the worse when a bizarre own goal sealed their fate. Pierce Charles attempted a quick drop-kick clearance that inadvertently struck Stoke defender Ben Wilmot, rebounding into the net.
Despite a late surge, including efforts from Michael Smith that hit the post and the bar, Wednesday could not find a way back into the match. The defeat left the team with 53 points and three games remaining in the season, a stark contrast to their earlier form where they were pushing for a playoff spot.
Rohl's post-match remarks revealed a deep concern for the future. He emphasized the need for a complete overhaul if the club aims to improve next season, warning that the current squad may not be equipped to compete at this level. "If you want to improve as a club, you have to do a lot of things right in the summer, otherwise next season will be a big, big fight to stay in this league because we have a big group of players that are not able to play at this level – not my football. I must say this today very directly," he stated.
The manager's frustration is compounded by the backdrop of off-field issues, including financial struggles that have reportedly affected player morale. Rohl acknowledged the impact of these challenges, stating, "Yes. But I am also part of this story. Look since January, everything that happens, all the things around. We tried to push this away but maybe if everything is positive energy on and off the pitch, maybe the big moments go in our direction. The second half of the season has gone more in the other direction."
Rohl's sentiments were echoed by the support from over 3,000 Sheffield Wednesday fans who traveled to the bet365 Stadium, showing unwavering loyalty despite the team's struggles. "I thank our supporters, it was unbelievable to the end. We didn’t deserve it today but they showed a big, big character. Our fans are Premier League, of the highest standard and I apologize to them for this performance," he said.
As the season draws to a close, the stakes are high for Rohl and his squad. With a relegation battle looming on the horizon, the pressure is mounting. The manager's candid assessment of his players' capabilities and the urgent need for improvement will be critical as they navigate the final three games of the season.
Fans are left wondering if the team can turn their fortunes around and regain the form that saw them competing for a playoff spot earlier in the season. The upcoming matches will be crucial, and Rohl's ability to motivate his players will be put to the test as they aim to finish the season on a high note.
As Sheffield Wednesday looks ahead, the focus will be on rebuilding and addressing the deficiencies highlighted by their recent performances. The club's future in the Championship may depend on how they respond to this challenging period, both on and off the pitch.
