REACTION: "I don't think we deserved to lose," says Warne

Hosts Bristol City were nullified for long periods and had to wait until the 73rd minute to claim the only goal of the game and notch their first win in ten attempts.

Another dogged display was scant reward for the Millers, now 15 points shy of the Championship safety line and without a goal in four games.

ANALYSIS: Millers disappearing over the edge

"Bristol have a strong squad and their subs made a difference," said Warne. "It was a game of few chances but I never thought it would end goalless, they have taken one of their few opportunities and fair play to them.

"People listening to me now will think 'same old story' but I don't think we deserved to lose. There was loads of effort and endeavour and unfortunately we were on the wrong side of it again.

"The majority of my lads performed to their limits and I don't know how much more I can ask of them. They never gave up and if you could have seen them in the dressing room afterwards it would have been clear how much they wanted to win.

"They are an honest group who continue to give everything for the cause and I think our terrific fans understand that."

Warne handed a full debut to Ben Purrington, the left-back from Plymouth, and Cardiff loan man Semi Ajayi again looked assured at centre-half.

PLAYER RATINGS: How did the Millers rate against Bristol?

Added Warne: "Purrington was outstanding against Bristol and Ajayi was good. The players we are bringing in are improving our team but we need others to help them out."

He'll now get a full week to work with his latest signing, experienced Swedish centre-half Joel Ekstrand, and Norwich City loan striker Carlton Morrris before Saturday's home date with Blackburn Rovers.