PREVIEW: New year, new challenge for Millers

IN-FORM Rotherham United will get a good measure of their progress when they launch into 2018 against high-flying Blackburn Rovers today.

Rovers arrive at the AESSEAL New York Stadium unbeaten in 12 league games, with their last setback way back in mid-October against Oldham.

The Millers, in turn, go into the fixture on a hot run of four wins from five, setting up an intriguing battle.

Manager Paul Warne said: “Blackburn gave us a real lesson in the first half when we played at their place. We changed the system and played well in the second half.

"I watched Blackburn play at Blackpool a few weeks ago and they're pretty formidable really. We are well aware of the test, they're in good form so both teams will go into it wanting to win the game.

"They don't set up for draws, as we don't, so it could be an open game and hopefully an entertaining one."

David Ball celebrates his winner against the Saddlers. Pictures: KERRIE BEDDOWS

Warne has to decide whether to stick with the same side that won at Walsall on Saturday but will also be mindful of the need for fresh legs after such a quick turn-around.

Speaking to the Advertiser after the weekend victory, defender Joe Mattock acknowledged: “The lads will be pretty tired still but you just have to go into the game with a positive attitude. The good thing is that it’s at home and hopefully we can go out and put it on them from the start like we have been doing.  We’ve been closing teams down and not letting them breathe in the first five minutes and if we can carry on doing that then we’ve got a massive chance.”

Rotherham sit seventh in League One, just two points shy of the play-off frame.

Kick-off is 3pm and you can follow all the developments on our Live Matchday Blog.