Paul Warne reacts to the defeat against Birmingham City that leaves Rotherham United close to the drop

A 3-1 home defeat against Birmingham means the Millers could be relegated when they travel to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

But Warne, whose squad have fought against the odds all season to remain in the hunt for safety, says his men will keep fighting while ever there is mathematical chance of staying up.

“It was a must-win game and we didn't win it, which is hugely disappointing," the manager said. "There are two games left. We need to get something from them. 

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“I am ever hopeful. If we can pick something up at West Brom and results go our way then who's to know with the last game of the season?

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“We won't give up. There is still a chance. If the players could stay up they would go down in history like gladiators."

With two matches left, Rotherham are third from bottom of the table, three points behind Millwall who have a game in hand, and six adrift of Reading who have a much superior goal difference.

Matt Crooks put them ahead at AESSEAL New York Stadium against the Blues and Semi Ajayi and Will Vaulks had chances to extend the lead before half-time.

However, Gary Monk's visitors looked a different side after the interval and scored three times.

“We could have done with getting a second goal," Warne added. "Birmingham asked us questions after the break that, collectively, we didn't have answers for.​

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“They were fully deserved winners. I didn't think the performance in the second half was like us. We didn't do enough in the second half to deserve anything out of the game.”