Smallwood ready for 'six pointers'

RICHIE Smallwood says the Millers are good enough to deal with two basement acid tests against Charlton and Bolton.

Now into his third season at the New York Stadium, the midfield anchor is no stranger to pressure.

While on loan from Middlesbrough, he helped them through the nerve-jangling League One play-off final against Leyton Orient two years ago, scoring in the penalty shoot-out. Only he and Lee Frecklington remain from that promotion-winning side.

Signed on permanently, Smallwood helped lift Rotherham to Championship safety last season, making more than 40 appearances.

That's why the looming six-pointers against Charlton today and next Saturday Bolton don't worry him.

“Six pointers? We had a couple of those towards the end of last season when Wigan and Millwall came to the New York,” he remembers. “ I think the next two are as well and six points is exactly what we're looking for.

“Our home form has been good and our away performances haven't been too bad. These matches will be tough but they're ones we can win.”